Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Leonard Lenzen, Jr. Obituary
Leonard W. Lenzen, Jr. passed away surrounded by family on December 13, 2020, after a three-year battle with cancer.
Len was the son of Leonard Sr., who emigrated from Serbia at the age of nine, and Ethel Prokesch, a second-generation American whose parents arrived from Croatia.
Lenzen’s Drugstore in Elizabeth, NJ was a family business, and everyone was expected to pitch in. Len swept floors at age nine and began working at the soda fountain (an amenity then not uncommon in pharmacies) at twelve. This undoubtably is where he developed a fondness for vanilla milkshakes, along with a strong work ethic.
He attended Monmouth College, earning a degree in business, working his way through as a photographer, often assisted at weddings and other large events by the love of his life, Charlotte, whom he later married. Soon after graduating, his parents discovered Brielle, NJ and moved the business, establishing Lenzen’s Brielle Pharmacy. Len felt that his parents needed help, so he went back to school to become a pharmacist and worked alongside his Dad into his forties.
Later, he was offered a job at Kulka-Smith, a commercial wholesaler of electronic components, in Wall Township, NJ. There he served in many roles, including Assistant to the President, Director of Human Resources, and Manager of Sales, Western Territory. Later, he joined Keystone Electronics in New York City as National Sales Manager. Eventually, having been on the road most of the time for many years, he decided to spend more time with his family.
The pharmacy having been sold, Len returned to work as a pharmacist in several commercial pharmacies in Ocean County, NJ until semi-retiring. Indulging his life-long love of cooking, he began a personal-chef business called Dinners Ready. During this period, he also trained personal chefs as an adjunct faculty member for the U.S. Personal Chef Association.
After suffering a heart attack, he attempted to retire; however, this left him painfully bored and Len went back to work again as Business Manager at the South Monmouth Regional Sewer Authority for two years. Finally, when his wife, Charlotte, retired herself, they were able to do it together and it finally stuck. Fourteen years ago, they moved to Legacy at Odessa National, a retirement community in Townsend, DE.
Throughout his life, Len held many leadership positions, including: President of the New Jersey Pharmaceutical Association, Trustee for the Monmouth County Pharmaceutical Association, President of the Spring Lake - Brielle Rotary Club, President of the Brielle Chamber of Commerce, and President - Legacy at Odessa National HOA.
He was a Brielle Councilman for 24 years, and served for many years as Brielle’s Police Commissioner, and liaison to the Fire Department and First Aid.
The family wishes to thank the Mayor of Brielle, Thomas Nicol, in honoring Len’s memory and legacy of service by ordering the flags at half-staff.
Len is survived by his beloved wife of almost sixty years, Charlotte, their two children, John (spouse Meghan) and Diane (spouse Ted), four grandchildren, Ellie, Chase, Jack and Eva, and many dear friends and colleagues.
Memories and Condolences
for Leonard Lenzen, Jr.
Baby Eddy
Catherine Novy
January 29, 2021
I first met Charlotte in high school. We became best friends. When married, we were able to get together and enjoy each other's company. The most memorable visit for me was when Len and Charlotte came over after my first child was born. Len offered to take our son's photograph. Knowing Len to be an excellent photographer, we immediately said yes. Len posed him on a blanket with his little arms crossed over. This position enabled Eddy to hold his head up with happiness in his eyes and smile. Len shared his expertise in working with young infants that day. I am forever grateful to Len for sharing his talent and blessing us with this precious gift.
Devon Kiernan
January 5, 2021
I’ll miss Uncle Len. A man who fiercely loved his country, community and most importantly, his family.
I’ll always remember our time together.
I look forward to seeing him in Heaven.
James & Diane Taylor
December 28, 2020
We extend our heartfelt condolences to you and your family in the loss of your dear husband and father. May God give you comfort and strength in the days ahead.
Keeping you in our prayers.
Love,
James & Diane Taylor
Legacy Neighbors/friends
Marv & Pat Goldstein
December 26, 2020
I admired and looked to Len to be a voice of logic in Legacy. We worked very well together on the Board. He was a person who looked at things with a similar eye as me.
I will miss him. Marv
Len will be remembered by the legacy community for all he accomplished for us. He was a good friend and neighbor . He always had a positive attitude, warm greeting and lots to talk about. We shared the New Jersey connection.....that says it all!! Rest In Peace Len. You are missed. Pat
Amitit
December 24, 2020
I am so happy I had the chance know my great, great, Uncle Len. I am thankful I got to hear some of his great stories. He always had interesting things to show us and tell us about on our visits. The days were never boring with Uncle Len! Some times in the evening we played Rummikub together and we had a lot laughs. Aunt Charlotte and I had fun growing sprouts for him when he was sick. On our last visit he even played frisbee with me. He was always kind. I will miss him very much.
From his great, great niece Amitit (age 12)
Pat Bromm
December 24, 2020
When we moved to Legacy in 2007, Char and Len was the first couple we met. They were so welcoming. Made sure we knew what was happening and invited us to go along to events. Over the years, they became our dear friends. As previous posts indic
ate,a lot of our good times revolved around food. So many evenings enjoying Len's latest creations. Also remember our New Year's celebrations where the ball dropped at 10PM! When Don was diagnosed with PSP in 2013, they were so supportive. Len would bring over videos from old TV shows and he would spend quality time with Don. I'm so thankful that Len was part of my life and I could call him friend.
Emily Jones
December 23, 2020
Uncle Len was a great man in so many ways. My child hood is full of memories of him, his great sense of humor, his passion for life, story telling, and of course his love of cooking and projects. I always admired and greatly respected his uncompromising character and sense of justice. He was a kind, compassionate, generous, and very hospitable man. He was always interested in our lives and took time to talk to us even when we were just little girls.
I love the story of how he met Aunt Charlotte and how their great love for one another has stood the test of time - over 60 years! That alone says so much...
Last year we were blessed with the opportunity to visit for a few days and our children (his great, great nieces and nephews) had the chance to hear some of the wonderful stories from his life experiences and also some about our family history. This is a memory I will always cherish. Uncle Len and Aunt Charlotte have been pillars and great examples to me through some trying times in my life. My sisters and I are their great nieces, but they have always loved us like grandchildren. Uncle Len will be greatly missed and always remembered with love...
Paula Long
December 23, 2020
Dear Char
Our fondest memory of Len was the soups he made for Legacy Mug-ins. They were different and delicious.
Praying for healing , comfort and peace for you and your family.
Paula & Bob Long
Diane Taber
December 22, 2020
Dad was a gentleman. He used words such as please, thank you, sir, and ma’am. He held the door and pulled the chair out for ladies. He was taught that, if you were not clean-shaven, it was a sign of disrespect.
My Father put the “do” in “do it yourself”. I cannot think of a construction project that he was afraid of tackling. One time, a redesign of the 2nd floor, required that the roof be removed. On another real estate adventure, he gave himself 4 months to rehab an entire house. He had vision and the determination to see it through. It was utter chaos. However, I am grateful for all the lessons that I learned.
Remodeling was a family affair. It was all hands-on deck for demolition day. I don’t think that I contributed much as a youngster, but I whacked away with my crowbar and hammer just the same. In 1989, the upstairs 1950s bathroom was in dire need of a remodel. My trusting Father had me design it. I was only 16 years old. He was grooming me for what is now a large part of my life. Dad built the custom cabinet to spec. He whitewashed it to create a pickled oak finish and created a curved edge on the white Corian countertop. Instead of replacing the low ceiling, we kept it to the roof line for a more open feel. For those who know my husband, Ted, you may be thinking that I married a man like my Father. In this respect, I certainly did!
My Dad made me feel safe. It was a family joke that he always got the seat facing the door. Decades before “smart houses”, we had a BSR system. He wired interior and exterior lights to boxes around the house. He told me, “If you ever get frightened”, press ALL ON. The house lit up like a prison yard.
When I started driving, Dad put a long steel pipe in my trunk. He instructed me to use it for leverage, if a lug nut got stuck while changing a tire. That pipe rolled around my trunk for years, and with every “clank”, it reminded me how much he loved me.
Later, when I moved to Maryland, my husband was finishing up responsibilities at his previous job. I was living alone. Dad being Dad (which I love) was concerned about my safety. Among other repairs, he installed exterior motion sensor lights that were connected to a “ROBO-DOG”. When the lights tripped, you could hear a huge rottweiler barking from inside the house. Only dad would come up with that!
He was also mindful for the safety of others. For example, he kept track of mile markers on the highway. In case someone broke down, he would inform the toll collector at the next stop. Of all the civic roles, by far, he was most fond of Police Commissioner embodying his primary instinct: protector.
Dad poured love into his cooking by providing special meals for friends and family. He showed care for others, by preparing meals, when they needed help. Also, Dad never complained about my food restrictions. Instead, it was an opportunity to show love. He surprised me with gluten free white chocolate raspberry and almond biscotti.
Working as a personal chef, he took great care to provide organic healthy nutritious meals for a client with cancer. When Dad himself had his cancer diagnosis, he went to work organizing all his favorite recipes to pass on. I know that I will treasure that collection.
When he was at his weakest with the cancer, I showed him love with homemade French Onion Soup. Chase, his grandson, did as well with Orange Crème Brûlée. He ate every last spoonful!
He connected with people through food and cooking. I know for myself, some of my happiest memories with my Dad took place in the kitchen while preparing a meal together. I know experts commonly refer to 5 love languages, but I would argue there is a 6th: food. In fact - food is love.
Bruce Prokesch
December 22, 2020
My fondest memory dates back to the 50's when we would have sea food cook outs on the bank of the Manasquan River. The August '90 family reunion alongside the golf course stands out as well as the superb hospitality of Len and Char. In recent years, visits were few but very special as we would reminisce and were treated to Len's gourmet cooking, tall tails, and outstanding hospitality. A very special man and a very special couple.
Joann and Valdis Paupe
December 22, 2020
Len was such an accomplished person and an inspiration to many. It was always a pleasure to converse with him and enjoyed our talks about NJ. We chatted about our NJ sense of humor and how so many don't relate. Len loved his wife and family and he will certainly be missed by our Community! Our deepest condolences to Char and family!
Bridge Church
December 22, 2020
Diane and family,
Our sincerest sympathy on the loss of your father. Our prayers will be with you during this difficult time. We pray that God will comfort your hearts and surround you with His love and care.
Your friends at Bridge Church
Heather Smith-Reeps
December 21, 2020
As a child, the Lenzen's house was my second home, and they were my second family. I can't remember a Friday night that I wasn't having a sleep-over with my best friend, Diane. I even had chore duties on cleaning night. How proud! Knowing Mr. Lenzen while growing up, I was fortunate to learn a few wonderful life lessons from him. Here are a few that changed my life for the better.
1. Drink only good beer-no exceptions, and whenever possible drink it out of a glass.
2. Always have a dog to love. Your life will be better for it 100 times over.
3. Listen to jazz, or something else that makes your heart happy, but preferably, jazz.
4. Fall in love with someone wonderful and show them how much you adore them every day.
5. Soft shell crabs are delectable and should be eaten at any time of the day or night without shame.
6. Work hard. It always pays off.
I will always have such fond memories of coming in from a fun, late night with Diane and sharing stories of our escapades with Mr. Lenzen. I will never forget the look of love on his face as he delighted in the tales of our hilarity. It was so wonderful to have someone watching us enjoying our youth and to be so happy for us. Mr. Lenzen knew what made his heart happy and he embraced it. What a wonderful way to live.
Bill and Bev Walker
December 21, 2020
Char, we send our deepest sympathy and love to you and your family. We pray the sweet memories you have of your precious Len will bring you comfort.
Judy Jordan
December 21, 2020
It is difficult to believe Len is gone. He has been part of my life since he started dating my good friend, Charlotte, when they were in high school. He was a good man who worked hard in many aspects of life, both in his profession and in his hobbies. Len will always be with us in our many memories of him.
Richard Rongo
December 20, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Sorry for your loss. You can always call me for help in this time of need.
Don Mueller
December 20, 2020
Len was a good friend and someone who helped me and others in many ways during our early years at Legacy. He was a fighter for what he believed in and worked closely with us to obtain the community rights we all deserved. He was a leader in, and for, our community. His subtle humor was also enjoyed and brought a smile or chuckle to those around him on many occasions. His contributions were numerous, as he readily gave of his time and energies to just causes. He will certainly be missed, but never forgotten.
Cookie & David Perlmutter
December 20, 2020
We will miss Len’s delightfully irascible personality. He often went to great lengths to hide a sensitive, concerned and caring person. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.
Dawn & Budd Lynster
December 19, 2020
We first met Charlotte and Len when we moved to Legacy about 10 years ago when either Len or Charlotte were walking Sadie, and spoke several times coming and going. We then became their next door neighbors and Len and Dawn were e-mail buddies, exchanging political, funny, and dog-related notes and pics of interest. Len would often be in the background when the girls played cards. Len will be missed by the community at large and individually by so many, including us. We are so sorry he is gone. Dawn & Budd Lynster
Mary Signorelli
December 19, 2020
Uncle Len had the warmest smile and a laugh that filled every corner of the room! He had the best stories and made the most delicious food. I remember him telling me one time I was watching him grill, "never flip a steak more than once, you'll lose the juices" And now my steaks are never dry. He will be greatly missed.
Altha Morton
December 19, 2020
I am so sorry for your loss. The entire Lenson family were wonderful to me and my family. Len was a great boss and very inspirational to a teenager working for the pharmacy. I was never made to feel inadequate even when my gift wrapping was not up to standard. I will always treasure my time with Len.
Altha (Ball) Morton
Dot and Jim Smith
December 19, 2020
We have so many memories of Len and Charlotte it’s hard to edit. We met when Diane was 6. She andHeather we’re i1st grade. The girls are still best friends and so are we. Cooking, camping, celebrating holidays, Birthdays . Len was a unique guy. I had many debates over a glass of wine , but they usually ended with us laughing in the end. He had a kind and generous side to him that I loved. He taught me to enjoy the pleasure of luxury dining, both in each other’s homes and in restaurants. We will miss his devilish smile. A real family man, truly loved his family, and most of all Charlotte.
Dianne Meserlin
December 18, 2020
Dear Diane and Charlotte, We are very sad to hear of Len's passing. I have great memories of him either thru St. Catharine's or his sense of him humor that met you as he waited on you at the pharmacy. Our thoughts and our prayers are with you . Sincerely, Dianne and Bob Meserlin
Nancy Sauer-Darling
December 18, 2020
Mr. Lenzen was my 1st boss when he owned Lenzen's Pharmacy in Brielle. I was only 13 & worked at the counter serving food & clearing tables. He was also a very good friend of my dad's, Bob Sauer. Lenny loved coming over & hanging out in my dad's hut with all his buddies. I'm very sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you & your family Mrs. Lenzen.
Thomas Nolan
December 18, 2020
On behalf of Councilmembers Frank Garruzzo, Mike Gianforte, Cort Gorham, Tim Shaak & John Vesceglia, and all the employees of Brielle, I wish to extend our sincere condolences on Len's passing. Len was one of a kind and he touched us all with his humor and sense of fair play. He was committed to the welfare of the community and served with distinction for twenty-four years We have lowered all flags in his honor for one week and noticed his passing on the public reader board. He will be missed. Sincerely yours, Mayor Thomas B. Nicol.
Lauren Kirby
December 18, 2020
Uncle Len will be missed by everyone who new him. Growing up we would visit him and aunt Char at their house on the golf course in Brielle. Sasha, their adored black lab was always the first to great us. Uncle Len was usually in the kitchen cooking up something delicious and entertaining everyone with his charming sense of humor. He always found a way to engage with my sisters and I and take an interest in our lives. In recent years I had the privilege of hosting him at my home on Cape Cod. We ate lobster and listened to stories of him working in his parent’s drug store when he was a kid, tales from his many camping trips, and about his latest cooking inspiration. I imagine he is up there throwing a dinner party with Gram right about now. Rest in peace, my great uncle Len.
Patti Mele
December 17, 2020
So sorry to hear of Mr. Lenzen’s passing. His wife Charlotte was a fantastic tutor to my children. One day when I was picking them up from her home in Brielle, I could smell delicious food being prepared. Mrs. Lenzen told me Len was the chef. I urged Mrs. Lenzen to combine her and Len’s respective talents and provide tutoring and dinner-to-go to students’ families! Sadly, Mrs. Lenzen declined but it’s always been a favorite memory of mine.
Deb Dullen
December 16, 2020
I have fond memories of your Dad (Di) and Lifemate (Char). Len introduced me to my passion for food (along with Di). Thank you!
I remember thinking what is this big pot filled with lobster shells... and then I learned about stock.
I remember your Len talking about his business as a pharmacist and the work on the house.
Len inspired me to realize that there are so many passions in life and we can pursue many of them... maybe all of them.
I loved how he asked important questions and told funny jokes.
I can hear his laugh. What a lovely memory.
Thank you for being my friend Di! Thank you for being such a wonderful and inspiring lady Char!
I miss your Len too!
Showing 1 - 28 of 28 results