Leonard Clarence Leiviska

It is with heavy hearts and deep respect that we announce the passing of Leonard Clarence Leiviska, fondly known as Lenny, who departed this life peacefully at home on March 5, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on February 6, 1949, in Ely, Minnesota, Lenny was a beacon of warmth, humor, and kindness to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Lenny was the cherished son of the late Johan and Sylvia (Tappa) Leiviska, who instilled in him values of hard work and compassion. He is preceded in death by his beloved parents and his son, Shayne Leiviska, who he now joins in eternal peace. In the company of family, Lenny shared a life rich with love and laughter. On July 7, 1978, he married Linda, the love of his life, with whom he celebrated over five decades of enduring partnership and devotion. Together, they raised two sons, Jeremey and Andy, who along with their wives, Renee and Stephanie, blessed Lenny with five grandchildren: Ben, Peach, Evie, Jack, and Gabe. Lenny's family was his greatest pride and joy, and he was a constant source of support and encouragement in their lives. A proud graduate of Ely High School in 1967, Lenny pursued further education in southern Minnesota, focusing on electrical motor repair. His journey led him to serve his country with honor as a young man in the United States Army. Between 1969 and 1971, Lenny courageously completed a tour in Vietnam, serving in the central highlands before joining the 170th Assault Helicopter Company as a crew chief. His stories of service reflected his bravery and unwavering dedication. Lenny's professional life was as varied as it was fulfilling. He began his career at the Reserved Mining Company in Ely, MN, before moving his family to Rockford, IL, for a position at Rockford Electric. Eventually, the pull of home brought him back to Minnesota, where he worked at Northstar Steel and later as a Class A Machinist and Millwright at Honeywell Aerospace until his retirement in 2016. A lifetime member of the VFW, Lenny was a man of many talents and interests. He found joy in tinkering and fixing things, often spending hours in his newly built garage or at his property in Webster, WI, creating memories with his grandson, Jackson. His heart was fullest when attending his grandchildren's sporting events, whether cheering on Evie at the ice arena or supporting his Fargo grandchildren, Ben, Peach, and Gabe, at their soccer games in the Twin Cities. In his younger years, Lenny loved camping with his sons, finding peace and adventure in the woods, fishing, and hunting. His kind and gentle demeanor made everyone feel welcome, and his ready supply of jokes ensured that laughter was never far away. Lenny leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and resilience. His wife Linda, sons Jeremey and Andy, daughters-in-law Renee and Stephanie, grandchildren Ben, Peach, Evie, Jack, Gabe, and a host of extended family and close friends will forever cherish his memory and the profound impact he had on their lives. A celebration of Lenny's life will be held on July 10, 2026, at Andy's house, where family and friends will gather to honor the remarkable man who touched so many hearts. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Lenny's name to a charity of choice, reflecting his spirit of giving and community. Lenny's presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the laughter, love, and stories shared by those who were lucky enough to know him.