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Westfield State University Athletics

Owls Athletics Mourns the Passing of Doc Leiker

Westfield State athletics mourns the passing of Dr. Karl Leiker, on Dec. 5, 2024. “Doc” Leiker was a strong supporter of Westfield State athletics, who was recognized in 2013 with the Hagan Award at the Owls Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

Dr. Karl Leiker (right) receives the 2013 Hagan Award at the Westfield State Athletics Hall of Fame ceremony from vice-president Dr. Carlton Pickron. (File photo)
Dr. Karl Leiker (right) receives the 2013 Hagan Award at the Westfield State Athletics Hall of Fame ceremony from vice-president Dr. Carlton Pickron. (File photo)
December 16, 2024

Westfield State athletics mourns the passing of Dr. Karl Leiker, on Dec. 5, 2024. "Doc" Leiker was a strong supporter of Westfield State athletics, who was recognized in 2013 with the Hagan Award at the Owls Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

In addition to his duties on campus as a professor in the geography department, Doc Leiker volunteered with the athletic department as an announcer for track and field meets, as a part of the chain gang for Westfield State football, and as an assistant coach in the early days of the Westfield State football program. 

As the campus' informal weatherman, Doc's highly accurate forecasts helped to keep the sports schedules on target with the ability to avoid the worst of the weather and game cancellations.

Visiting hours for Doc Leiker will be on Wednesday, Dec. 18 from 4-6 p.m. at Firtion-Adams Funeral Home, 76 Broad St., Westfield, Mass. with funeral services at 6 p.m.