Elijah Daniel Lautenbach Leimberer, age 3, a resident of Warrenville, IL, died Wednesday, August 1, 2012, at the Ann & Robert Lurie Children's Hospital in Chicago, IL. He was born February 20, 2009 in Winfield, IL.

Elijah could walk into a room and light it up with his infectious smile. He was full of joy and happiness. Instead of a simple "Hello" greeting, Elijah would blow kisses, sharing his love. One of his favorite times was running up the aisle at church for the children's sermon, singing along with the hymns and shouting out "Yeah" during prayers and the sermon. He always wanted to learn new things and especially enjoyed his time at Jefferson Preschool in Wheaton, IL. "Eli" loved to swim, to play with his dog, Dory, he couldn't get enough of books, and was always throwing a ball. Eli loved all the friends he met at GiGi's Playhouse and in the greater Down syndrome community. He was an inspiration to anyone whose life he touched. We are all blessed to have had an angel in our lives for three and a half years. Elijah had more to teach us than we ever imagined.

He is survived by his mama, Karen Leimberer, and his mommy, Pamela Leimberer, nee Lautenbach, of Warrenville, IL; his grandparents, Daniel and Susan Leimberer, and Marion Golovach; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; his extended chosen family, church family and the Down syndrome community.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 4, 2012 from 1:00 p.m. until the time of a memorial service to be held at 3:00 p.m. at Wesley United Methodist Church, 21 E. Franklin Ave. Naperville, IL 60540. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be directed to GiGi's Playhouse, Inc., 1069 West Golf Road, Hoffman Estates, IL 60169; or to the Wesley United Methodist Church, 21 E. Franklin Ave. Naperville, IL 60540.