Leonard Gross

Leonard Gross
Resident of Emeryville
Leonard Aburn Gross, age 94, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on December 8, 2012. He is survived by his son Barry Gross of Moraga (Barbara Gross) and his daughter Laurie Karzen of Emeryville (Stan Hegg). He was a beloved grandfather to Tracey Baker, Andrew Donner (Belinda), Daniel Donner (Ruth), Tyler Blum, Philip Gross (Vera), Mara Gross (Michael), Aaron Gross (Cary) and derived great pleasure from his 13 great grandchildren: Michael, Jordan, Chase, Jake, Charlie, Priva, Ashley, Jack, Benjamin, Joe, Sam , Gabe and Lucia. He leaves behind two brothers, Dr. Sylvan Gross (Jackie) and Alfee Gross (Mary) and many nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his older brother Harry and sisters Miriam and Rosalie.

Born in Oakland in 1918 to Max and Becky Gross, he attended University High and graduated from UC Berkeley in 1940. He worked for Kaiser Industries during the war years. Lennie became a CPA and later received a J.D. degree from Golden Gate University. He was a long time California Probate Referee and was recognized for his accomplishments by the City of Oakland and the California State Senate.
Lennie was happily married to Thelma from 1941 until her death in 1978. He was estranged from his second wife, Linda Capin. He was an avid golfer and won many trophies golfing. He was a past president of Sequoyah Country Club.
Lennie will be remembered for his humor, which was an important part of his life. He loved to laugh and tell jokes and in his memory bank kept a joke on every topic and occasion. He always saw the glass as half full. His legendary birthday parties at Scotts, where he wore crazy hats and a clown nose, will be remembered not just for the off color jokes but for the fun he had with his numerous friends. He touched the lives of all who knew him and he will be greatly missed.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 14, at 10 a.m. at the Home of Eternity, 5000 Piedmont Avenue, Oakland. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Reutlinger Community for Jewish Living or the charity of your choice.