LeRoy Easley Minnick, retired locksmith senior in the Division of Facilities, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 19.

Minnick was born Dec. 14, 1942, in Pearisburg and was a son of the late Frank Andrew Minnick and Sara Earnestine Wilburn Minnick. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Brenda Parcell, and his brother, Arnold Minnick.

Minnick proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force and Air Force Reserves for six years, stationed in Hawaii. It was there, during a dance on Waikiki Beach, that he introduced himself to Noella, who was visiting from New Bedford, Massachusetts. That introduction led to a devoted marriage of 57 years.

Minnick's mechanical expertise was a defining trait throughout his life, a standard set during his military service. A letter of commendation detailed how he once worked through the night in cold, drizzling rain in New Zealand to replace a malfunctioning propeller on a C-97 aircraft. His precision allowed the crew to depart safely the next morning without another adjustment needed.

He brought that same perfectionism back home to Virginia. Minnick dedicated over 30 years to Celanese and later served 16 years as a locksmith in Virginia Tech’s Division of Facilities. A master of his trade, he simultaneously operated his own business, Lock & Key Repair Shop. Despite his busy schedule, he unselfishly dedicated his annual vacation time to driving his family to Massachusetts to visit his in-laws. These trips, filled with camping and time together, remain some of the family’s most cherished memories.

Known as a man who could fix anything, he maintained his own vehicles, built his own home, and treated the house as a lifelong project, constantly building additions and making improvements. He found peace working outdoors on his lawn, and in his spare time, he enjoyed tinkering with computers and technology.

Though a quiet man who shunned the spotlight, he was deeply respected by all who knew him. His family will fondly remember his tough love, his playful teasing, and the way he spoiled his grandchildren at every opportunity.

He is survived by his wife, Noella Rita Paradis Minnick of Pearisburg; his daughter, Sherry Keough (the late Michael) of Chesapeake; and his two sons, Kevin Minnick (Velvet) of Blacksburg and Scott J. Minnick (Christi) of Riner. He is also survived by his sister, Linda Altizer of Christiansburg, and his six grandchildren: Rebecca, Michael, Jordan, Andrew, Megan, and Cheyanne.

Minnick's full obituary can be found online.

Members of the university community who seek support or assistance are encouraged to contact these resources:

 

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