Leonard J. "Lenny" Matzdorff
Leonard J. "Lenny" Matzdorff
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Leonard Matzdorff Obituary
He was born in Groton on June 6, 1928, the son of Richard and Aldea (Courchaine) Matzdorff. After receiving his education, he proudly served as a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army in Korea,Vietnam, and the Philippines.
Prior to his retirement, he owned and operated Lenny's Donut Hole bake shop. Active in the community, he was a member of the Lions Club where he had served as past president. He was also a recipient of the Melvin Jones Fellow Award. He enjoyed woodworking, traveling, coin collecting, baseball (except the Yankees), and spending his mornings with the McDonalds 8 a.m. Coffee Club.
He is survived by his wife, Inge (Wachtler) Matzdorff whom he married in Frankfort am Main, Germany on Oct. 16, 1948. They were to have celebrated their 62nd anniversary next week.
He is also survived by his children, Karen Hollingsworth (James), Steven Matzdorff (Machelle), and David Matzdorff; and four grandchildren, Jaclyn Marks, Jordan Matzdorff, Jacob Matzdorff, and Kyndra Matzdorff.
He was predeceased by a daughter, Linda and a grandson, Joshua.
His family will greet relatives and friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday at The Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl St., historic downtown Mystic. A graveside service with presentation of military honors will be conducted at 10 a.m. on Saturday at Avery-Stoddard Cemetery, Ledyard.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lions Eye Research Foundation (clerf.lionwap.org), PO Box 9268, New Haven CT 06533.
For information, directions, or to share a note of remembrance/condolence with Lenny's family, please visit www.dinotofuneral.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Linda Howard
October 1, 2022
I can't believe it's been 12 years since you pasted away. RIP Lion Lenny
Linda Howard
Linda Howard
October 2, 2019
RIP Lenny
Marjorie Mancini
October 27, 2010
Deep sympathy to you, Inge and children, from your, cousin, Sister Marjorie Mancini, RSM in Jamestrown, RI. Just last March 8 my sister, Irene, passed away, Lenny made the early morning trip to RI, to her funeral. My mother was his godmother as well as his aunt. He was her favorite nephew and someone I looked up to, especially in his army uniform, since I was a I was a litte child. Lenny has left us, but he has been wecomed home by his daughter and grandson and his many loved ones who have preceded him to eternal life. You are all in my thoughts and memories these days, and in my prayers as well.
Your cousin, [Sr.] Marjorie
Steve Isenhour
October 15, 2010
Matzdorff Family,
My humble apologies for the loss of Lenny. It has been many years since I stopped in to say hello. My parents told me last night that he passed away. My memories of him are flooding my mind right now. At times Lenny was a tough person, and I could see it, but to me he gave me my first job, opened my mind when I needed it broadened, provided honest and firm guidance when I needed it, taught me the value of hard work, and he became a good friend and mentor for a young man looking to find his way. My Dad retired from the Navy and I ended up enlisting in the Army. Much of that was due to Lenny's inspiration having retired from the Army himself. I still remember his stories from his time in Germany at the end of WW II, Korea, and Vietnam. What an amazing life as a true American. I am still in the Army 24 plus years later as a Lieutenant Colonel having found my way. I remember Lenny tracking me down in West Germany in 1988 when he and Inga came over to visit Inga's family. Several years later I invited Lenny and Inga to my graduation from West Point and he was there. I was proud to have him there. Same man, same values, same inspiration. For that I will always be greatful to your family. Lenny's lessons live on in my two sons now - Forrest and Miles. God Bless you all.
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Linda Howard
October 14, 2010
Lenny will surely be missed. My prayers go out to the family.
Linda Howard
Fay Clymer
October 12, 2010
Sincerest condolences to all of the Matzdorff family on the loss of your 'Lenny'.My late-husband,'Lenny', and I counted him amongst our Gales Ferry Drug extended family for all the years were were in Gales Ferry. He will be remembered as a very special person in our lives...G-d Bless you all...Fondly...Fay Clymer and all the former Gales Ferry Drug crew
Mary and Stan Stober
October 8, 2010
The world has lost a kind soul and a man who was a true friend. May you rest in peace, Lenny, after a life well lived.
Lorri Higley
October 8, 2010
Karen,
I am so sorry to hear about your father. My prayers are with you and your family.
Eric Emerich
October 8, 2010
We are all very sorry to learn of Lenny's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all...
Mary & Doug Wirta
October 7, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Doug will miss Lenny and their mornings at MacDonalds.
Trish Lancaster
October 7, 2010
Dave,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Karine and Mike Heard
October 7, 2010
Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time Dave, Steve and your family.
Peter and Janet Pinckney Roberts
October 7, 2010
We will always hold dear the fond memories we have of Lenny. We will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Charles Garthwaite
October 7, 2010
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
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