Craig Leibrich

Craig Leibeich, 65, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, passed away unexpectedly on July 31, 2026, at Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls. 

Craig was born on December 21, 1960, in Burke, South Dakota, to Robert and Gloria (Carter) Leibrich. He grew up in Winner, South Dakota, where he attended school before enlisting in the United States Army in April 1981. He was honorably discharged from the Army in May 1985 and returned to Winner, where he purchased the local bowling alley. It was there that his love of bowling flourished and where he met Ruby Sturgeon

Craig and Ruby made their home in Chamberlain, South Dakota, where they welcomed two sons, Nicholas in November 1986 and Austin in November 1988. While living in Chamberlain, Craig discovered his passion for truck driving, a career he enjoyed and faithfully pursued for the remainder of his life

In July 2004, Craig met Kathy Belton of North Dakota. They were married on January 5, 2005, in Winner, South Dakota, and later that year made their home in Sioux Falls. Craig was grateful to welcome Kathy's two children, Ryan and Courtney, into his life.

Craig's greatest joy was his family, especially his grandchildren. He loved teaching them to bowl, sharing his favorite recipes in the kitchen, and taking them along on trucking adventures whenever he could.

In 2019, Craig met his fiancée, Eda "Gina" Fonder, of Sioux Falls, with whom he shared love, companionship, and many happy memories.

Craig will be deeply missed by his fiancé, Eda "Gina" Fonder of Sioux Falls; his sons, Nicholas Leibrich of Sioux Falls and Austin (Brittany) Leibrich of Sioux Falls; his grandchildren, Joshua, Madison, Aspen, and Rylee; Gina's children, Sam Lodmel of Huron and Amanda (Devan) Nelson of Sioux Falls, along with their children, Hudson and Ahrianna; his siblings, Robert (LaDonna) Leibrich of Sheridan, Wyoming, Leonard (Delaine) Leibrich of Sioux Falls, Mark (Donna) Leibrich of Winner, and Brenda (Greg) Bender of Winner; as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wives, Ruby Stugeron and Kathy Leibrich; his parents, Robert and Gloria Leibrich, and other loved ones who welcomed him home.

Craig will be remembered for his dedication as a truck driver, his love of bowling, the pride he took in his family, and the friendships he built throughout his life. His memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be sent to:

Leonard Leibrich     3402 Platinum Point Place,  Sioux Falls, SD 57108