Ingrid was born on August 24th, 1939 in Berlin, Germany to Richard and Hedwig Leder.
She and her parents immigrated to the United States in 1954. The family settled in Omaha, Nebraska.

After graduating from Omaha Central High School , she attended the University of Nebraska in Lincoln studying journalism and political science. She earned a master’s degree in history from Drake University and a Ph. D. in history from the University of Nebraska, having done her dissertation research in Berlin with Fulbright-Hays grant. She taught history at colleges in California before moving to Milwaukee in 1997.

Ms. Leder has a son, Michael of Cedarburg, and two daughters, Rebecca of Bradenton, Florida and Deusdeditha Komba-Wells of Milwaukee. Her grandchildren are Katherine Zain of Reston, VA ; Connor, Mira and Calise Kraus of Cedarburg and Amana, Charmeka and Emmanuel Komba-Wells of Milwaukee. She was a member of St. Benedict the Moor Parish in Milwaukee.

Ingrid had a true love of life and adventurous spirit. She relished her independent city living, while spending time with her family and many, many friends. Celebrating and caring for her family, friends and those in need was something she so enjoyed.