March 23, 1962 – April 9, 2025
Leland L. Shanks, 63, of Longtown, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.
Born on March 23, 1962 in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Leland grew up with a deep appreciation for the outdoors, a passion he carried throughout his life. He was known for his craftsmanship and dedication as a custom fishing rod builder—his work a reflection of both skill and love for fishing. An avid fisherman, Leland found peace and purpose by the water.
He also enjoyed gardening and spent countless hours researching and collecting Native American artifacts, preserving pieces of history he held in high regard.
Leland was a devot-ed husband to Oneta Yvonne Shanks and a proud father to Joshua Shanks, Shaylynne Shanks, Sheila Nelson, Shannon Baden, and Shawna Baden. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Rhyson Leroy Treat, Daniel Jackson Alefs, and Maddison Reana Alefs.
He is also survived by his siblings, Shiela Shanks-Humphrey, Laura Casteel, and Oland Shanks, and remembered with love by many extended family members and friends.
Leland was preceded in death by his parents, Glenda and Leroy Shanks of Leonard, Oklahoma.
A Celebration of Leland’s Life will be held at 12 p.m. on May 3 at No. 9 Pavilion in Longtown, Oklahoma. All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend and share memories.
Leland will be remembered for his kind heart, his quiet strength, and the way he lived his life doing what he loved—surrounded by nature, family, and the simplicity of things that truly mattered.
