Leander Austin Brake

Leander Austin Brake, age 87, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Salina Regional Health Center in Salina, Kansas.

Leander was born on August 7, 1938, in rural Kinsley, Kansas, to Joseph and Mathilda (Hirsh) Brake. He graduated from Windthorst High School and later attended Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas. He taught music in Salina, Kansas for one year before moving to Wichita, Kansas, where he worked for USD 259 and Learjet.

Leander was a devoted member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, where he was deeply involved in church life. He cherished going to breakfast with his church friends and enjoyed watching the Kansas City Chiefs. His faith, friendships, and community were central to his life.

He is survived by his two brothers, Melvin Brake of Kinsley, Kansas, and Mark Brake of Salina, Kansas, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mathilda Brake; his brothers, Wilfred Brake and Thomas Brake; his sister, Dorothy Brake; his sisters-in-law, Maxine Brake and Glora Brake; and his beloved cat, Nuisance.

A Rosary will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m., both at St. Patrick Catholic Church. Interment will follow at 3:00 p.m. at St. Peter and St. Paul Cemetery in Kinsley, Kansas.

A memorial has been established with St. Patrick Catholic Church, 2007 N. Arkansas Ave., Wichita, KS 67203.

Downing & Lahey Mortuary – East Chapel is overseeing arrangements.