Wayne Swenson Leeper, 87, formerly of Lake Suzy, Fla., and Valencia, passed away on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at Apple Blossom Senior Living Community in Moon Township, Pa.

He was born on Oct. 27, 1936, in Pittsburgh, to Donald W. Leeper and Viola Swenson Leeper.

Wayne graduated in 1954 from Hampton High School. After a favorite uncle encouraged his interest in the oil and gas business, Wayne decided to major in geology at the College of Wooster and was a member of the Class of 1958. He later obtained a master’s degree in geology from the University of Pittsburgh in 1961.

After doing geological field work in Western Pennsylvania and Montana, Wayne knew he wanted to stay in the Appalachia area. In 1961, he began working for United Natural Gas and its subsidiary, Sylvania Corp., in Oil City. He moved to National Fuel Gas headquarters in Buffalo, N.Y., in 1976 to lead the geology department. In 1981, Wayne moved to a new position as vice president of exploration with Pittsburgh-based Keystone Energy Oil and Gas Company. Finally, in 1990, Wayne became an independent consultant, retiring in 2011. Wayne always had heartfelt enthusiasm for the oil and gas business and was fortunate to spend his entire career in the field.

In addition to his work life, Wayne was very active in his community and was awarded the Jaycees Distinguished Service Award for his dedicated volunteer work. He lectured for the Field Conference of Pennsylvania Geologists, served as scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts of America and was elected to two terms on the Oil City school board. He was president of Venango Vocational Technical School and was a charter member and board member of Friends of Drake Well, Inc. Wayne also was active in the Presbyterian church throughout his life.

Wayne loved his family and enjoyed walking with his dogs, spending time on Chautauqua Lake, shooting, ice cream and a good, stiff drink.

Surviving are his daughters, Stacey (Thomas) Buescher of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Jane (Jason) Bablak of Sewickley, Pa.; two stepchildren, Charles K. (Regina) Rupert of Springboro, Pa., and Cheri (David) Hollenbaugh of Mercer, Pa.; and 11 grandchildren. Wayne also is survived by his brother, Martin (Dawn) Leeper of Punta Gorda, Fla.; and a niece and nephew.

Wayne was predeceased by his parents; his late wife of 17 years, Judith A. (Muenz) Leeper; his late wife of 24 years, Barbara J. (Flinchbaugh) Leeper; and his former wife, Marion (Stewart) Beck.

LEEPER — A memorial service for Wayne Swenson Leeper, who died Thursday, May 30, 2024, will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a contribution to Drake Well Museum and Park.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.