Martin Leyden Obituary

Leyden, Martin

Martin Leyden, 86, of Palos Hills, earned his long-anticipated trip to the Great Reward on Saturday, July 15, 2023.

Martin's journey began near his beloved Cliffs of Moher in Liscannor, Ireland, on April 28, 1937. He was one of 12 children born to John and Ann Leyden. When Martin was 20, he left Ireland for Chicago, where he built a career doing what he loved most: fixing diesel engines.

In 1962, he married Sheila McDonnell. They had four sons, Kevin, Tim (Annie), David, and Glen(Nikki) and nine grandchildren: Conor, Maeve, Julia, Brian, Becky, Ally, Felix, Myles, and Hayes.

Martin loved donkeys, trad music, outlaws, Mercedes, insults, greasy spoons, and his dog, Precious. In return for his generous and eccentric nature, many loved him. He was a devoted Brother to the late Austin (Margie) Leyden, the late Brigid McGinley (the late Frank), the late Johnny (the late Mary) Leyden, the late Patrick (Nora) Leyden, Mary (Tommy) McDonnell, Joe (Mary) Leyden, the late Peter (Mary) Leyden, Connor Leyden, Anne (the late Kevin) Thynne, Nora Leyden and the late Margaret; Fond uncle of many nieces and nephews; Dear cousin and friend of many.

A wake will be held Thursday, July 20th from 3:00 -9:00 p.m at Lack and Sons Funeral Home, 9236 S. Roberts Road, Hickory Hills. Funeral service Friday, July 21st at 9:15 a.m. at the funeral home to Sacred Heart Church in Palos Hills for 10:00 a.m. Mass. A luncheon with some of Martin's favorite music will follow at Gaelic Park in Oak Forest. For information 708-430-5700

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