Leanne M. Irsik (Hitt), Age: 73
Nov 20, 1952---Sep 02, 2026

Leanne M (Hitt) Irsik, (73), of Lenexa, KS, passed away on September 2nd, 2026 after a 7-year battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease).

Leanne was born on November 20, 1952, to Gene and Rita (Struckhoff) Hitt in WaKeeney, KS. After graduating from Pratt High School in 1970, she went on to study Nursing at Marymount College of Kansas (1975) and completed graduate studies from Friend’s University (2006).

After college graduation, she landed her first job as a Professional Registered Nurse for St. Catherine Hospital, Garden City, KS, kicking off a 50-year career in healthcare. This career included an Officer Commission in the US Air Force for Active Duty and Active Reserve tours at Andrews AFB and McConnell AFB.

In 1978, she met William G. “Bill” Irsik, and they wed in October of 1978, going on to have three children, Sarah Anne, Jon William, and Jason Victor.

As the daughter of a Fish and Game Warden, Leanne was an avid fisherman, and her love of the outdoors was passed down from her father. She also shared a deep love of the Kansas City Royals with her mother and, until the very end, never missed a game. After retiring in 2023, Leanne enjoyed spending her time with family and traveling.

Leanne was predeceased by her parents and one brother, Patrick Aloys. She is survived by husband, of the home; daughter Sarah (Scott) Good, Topeka, KS; son Jon (Shannon) Irsik, Garden City, KS; son Jason Irsik, Lenexa, KS; grandchildren Justin Good, Scranton, KS.,  Dysnee Good (Trey) Belin, Horseshoe Bay, TX., Rhiannon Good, Devyn Irsik, Taylor Irsik, Avery Irsik; sisters Rhonda (Michael) Westerhaus, Pratt, KS., Rebecca (Bob) Eastes, Pratt, KS., Nancy (Bob) Schwarz, Grinnell, KS.; brothers Ray (Cindy) Hitt, Pratt, KS., Joe (Susan) Hitt, Augusta, KS., Jeff (Kathy) Hitt, Garden Plaine, KS., sister-in-law Cheri Hitt (Chuck) Griffin, Pratt, KS., and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass and interment will be held in Garden City, Kansas, at a later date. Service details will be announced once arrangements have been finalized.

Memorials to Josephine Rhea Bradley Scholarship Fund, Pratt Community College or Dominican Sisters of Peace, Great Bend, KS, in care of Garnand Funeral Chapel, 412 N 7th St, Garden City, KS 67846.

 


Condolences

Scott Taylor Sep 04, 2026

Collegue ,Granbury ,Texas

There are no words to describe how I feel. Leanne was a colleague, trusted advisor and a friend. More than these, she was an inspiration to me and all she worked with. Throughout our time together we faced challenges and enjoyed significant success. In all that time, no matter what we were doing I always enjoyed our working relationship and relied on her valuable counsel. When asked to take on a seriously challenged St Rose facility in Great Bend, I made but one non-negotiable condition- that Leanne would serve as site administrator. It was hard work but she always approached it with reverence integrity compassion and excellence. I will miss her, and will remember her in my prayers until my time comes.

Rhonda Sep 04, 2026

Sister ,Pratt ,Kansas

Leanne was a wonderful “BigSister” who set an example to me in so many ways that include faith and family as well as self care, professional development and “sisterhood”! Thank you, Leanne.

Patti Burrows Sep 04, 2026

Fellow RN ,Baker City ,Oregon

Professional RN as an Interm DNS ! Best one I’ve ever had! My heart is broken at her loss

LeAnne Rinkel Ferry Sep 04, 2026

Friend ,Overland Park ,Kansas

So sorry to hear of Leann’s passing. She was in a group of friends in high school that included my brother, Steve. Later she was the first to send me a note when we had our daughter at St. Catherine Hospital in Garden City. Such a sweet smile. I know your family will miss her so but have wonderful memories.

Glenda Sep 05, 2026

Colleague ,Loveland ,Colorado

Leanne, was my first boss as a Director of Nursing and boy did I hit the jackpot. She was such a wonderful mentor and leader. I was allowed to create new programs and councils under her guidance and establish my own leadership foundation for my nursing career. I couldn’t have asked for a better boss and fondly remember my wonderful years at St. Catherine Hospital in Garden City, Kansas, Leanne, you will be missed??.

Avis Wallace Sep 05, 2026

Colleague ,Woodland Park ,Colorado

My heart broke when I read about Leanne's passing. She was one of my early career mentors and boss. I learned so much about leadership from her. I considered her a friend even though we hadn't talked or seen each other for years. My condolences to each of her family, friends and precious colleagues. Avis Wallace ( St Catherine Hospital 1975-2019).

Kimberly Book Brennan Sep 05, 2026

Classmate ,Pratt ,Kansas

I was LeAnn’s lab partner at PCC in 1970-1971. Our paths crossed more after college as nursing directors in SW Kansas. I will carry wonderful memories of my friend LeAnne.

Patty Woods Sep 07, 2026

Work ,Garden City ,Kansas

Leanne was a mentor and a special friend! She gave me opportunities at SCH I may not have achieved without her support and encouragement! Leanne will forever be missed! Prayers and condolences to all of her wonderful family

Stephen Brown Sep 07, 2026

Friend ,Pratt ,Kansas

I don’t know how old I was when I first met Leanne; but I do remember thinking she is the prettiest girl I’d ever seen. I never thought of Leanne, without recalling my first impression.