NEW CASTLE, Pennsylvania (MyValleyTributes) – Leif D. Painter, 72, of New Castle, formerly of West Middlesex, passed away Tuesday afternoon, July 2, 2024, at Edison Manor Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in New Castle.

Mr. Painter was born on June 7, 1952 in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Stanley and Helen (Ruth) Painter.

After leaving Hickory High School in Hermitage during his senior year, he graduated from Reynolds High School in 1971. While at Hickory High, he was a competitive shooter and a member of the rifle club, as well as a founding member of the chess club.

Leif attended the Calvary Temple in New Castle.

In his younger years, Leif was a member of the Boy Scouts of America and earned the title of Eagle Scout.

In his later years, Leif was a lay preacher, spreading the Word of God and his knowledge of the Bible.

Leif touched countless lives during the many years he lived in New Castle. He loved to bike and backpack, spend time at the local coffee shops and looked forward to a good conversation or debate. Leif had a passion for music and talent for playing the drums and spoons. He enjoyed listening to some of his favorite artists, especially Otis Redding and the Beatles, and his favorite song was “God be with You til we Meet Again.”

Leif leaves behind three younger sisters, two younger brothers, several nieces and nephews and other extended family members.

Leif's parents were preceded in death by his sisters Teresa Besco and her daughter Melinda Besco.

In accordance with his wishes, all services are held privately.

Burial will be in Savannah Cemetery, Shenango Township.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 111 West Falls Street, New Castle.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcgoniglefuneralhomeandcrematory.com.

A television tribute will air on Thursday, July 4th at approximately the following times: 7:10 a.m. on FOX, 12:22 p.m. on WKBN, 5:08 p.m. on MyYTV and 7:27 p.m. on WYTV. Video will be posted here the day of the broadcast.