Bernhard Leppla died attempting to save James Gruszka from drowning, New Buffalo, Michigan, July 9, 1977. James, 9, was swimming in Lake Michigan when he was caught by a wave and carried away from shore. Leppla, 42, machinist, swam to James, who then was approximately 125 feet from shore and struggling to stay afloat in rough water about 13 feet deep. Leppla attempted to tow James toward shore, but both disappeared from sight. Their bodies later were recovered. 55848-6330
55848 – 6330
55848-6330