Lekenta, Eugene Mr. Eugene (Gene) Lekenta age 87, passed away Tuesday, February 5, 2019, peacefully surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by his parents Frank & Charlotte Lekenta; his ten siblings; wife, Phyllis Lekenta; and daughter-in-law, Wendy Lekenta. Surviving are his four children Al Lekenta, Bob Lekenta, Debbie Lekenta, and Shelly (Doug) Zahm; grandchildren, Toni, Mike, Ric, Tori, John, Jeff & Michelle, Krystal, John, and Sherrie; nineteen great grandchildren; brother-in-law, Lacy Hendrick; best friend, Kenny Ojczenasz; and many nieces and nephews. He was a loving, kind and soft-spoken dad who would lend a helping hand to anyone. He had an incredible laugh and his sense of humor was contagious. He had a life-long passion for all sports, especially MSU teams. He was admired for his October 4, 1952 winning field goal kick for Michigan State (College) University keeping the winning streak alive, leading up to the 1952 National Championship for Michigan State (College) University. He was also part of the 1954 Rose Bowl team. As a freshman at Union High School he earned his varsity letter as part of the 1948 State Championship Football team. He was a retiree of Steelcase. A special thank you to the entire staff of The Sanctuary at St. Mary for their extraordinary care of Gene. A Celebration of Life luncheon will be held on Saturday February 9th from 3 p.m.-6 p.m. at the Casino Club of Grand Rapids, 3260 Salerno Dr NE. Family ask that everyone sport their favorite MSU or sports attire. Honoring his wishes cremation has taken place and a private burial will take place at Rosedale Cemetery in the summer. To send an online message to the family visit: www.MichiganCremation.com
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I remember Gene well as we graduated from High School the same year! He from Union and me from Catholic Central.
Mary Slowinski-Rolf
February 23, 2019
My condolences to the Lekenta family. I was a UHS track teammate of Gene in the late 40's. We set a Medley Relay record which held for a number of years. I live in Ca. In the winter & I was looking forward to having lunch with Gene this summer. So sorry it couldn't happen. I would appreciate hearing from a family member about Gene's last few years.
Norm Leven
February 21, 2019
Shelly and Debbie,
Sorry to hear about your Dad. Sending you guys hugs and prayers.
Lisa Mervenne
February 8, 2019
Eugene was a great man so sorry for your loss
Randy Rykse
February 8, 2019
From Spartans everywhere..Go Green. RIP
February 7, 2019
Rest in peace Uncle Gene.
Hillary Malone
February 7, 2019
dan henry
February 7, 2019
Our deepest sympathy to Al, Bobbie, Shellie, and Debbie and all his loved ones.
Sandy and Dave Smith
Sandy Smith
February 7, 2019
My condolences to you all.Your father will be remembered as a kind spirit to me. May you hold God close to you at this time of loss.
Gloria June
February 6, 2019
Our deepest sympathy at the loss of your father, Debbie and family. Please know we hold you in most tender prayer even as your mom and your dad s parents and siblings welcome him home where God awaits him with great joy! Blessings and love, Rev Kathy and Mary
Rev Kathy and Mary Rooke - Ruggeri
February 6, 2019
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