Leonard was born in Modesto, California on September 7, 1940 and passed away on Sunday, November 22, 2020 in Lodi, California. After working at Salas Brothers Funeral Home in Modesto, he moved to Lodi in 1973 and joined Salas Brothers Lodi Funeral Home where he soon became manager and remained there for the next 30 years. Leonard was always active in service clubs and in 1960 he was voted by the Modesto Junior Chamber of Commerce as Outstanding Young Man of the Year. He was an active member and past president of Lodi Kiwanis, and an active member of The Home Church where he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He always enjoyed any job he was given at the church; and was greatly respected and beloved by anyone who knew him. Leonard played on several championship softball teams in his early years, was a high school football official for many years and an avid golfer.
Leonard is survived by his loving wife, Maralyn Blewett Messer; his brother, Denny "Bo" his three children, Leonard "Lenny" Jr (Marcia), Cyndee, and Kevin (Karen); two step-children, Perri Rieger Leitao (Joe) and Rick Rieger (Candy); seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Leonard also leaves behind his very sad dog, Lacy.
Donations may be made to donor's choice, The Home Church, Animal Friends Connection or Poke-A-Dot's Rescue. Arrangements are pending.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Lodi-News Sentinel from Dec. 1 to Dec. 7, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Leonard Messer

Sponsored by Lodi Funeral Home, Inc..

12 Entries

Wanda and Bob Hancock

February 6, 2023

Marilyn and Family, as we just found out about Leonard we are so sorry for your loss. We knew Leonard and Marilyn many years ago. As we have moved to Oregon, we have lost touch. Again so, so sorry to hear of his passing. Hope all is good with Marilyn and the rest of the family. He is surely missed.

Gregory Ramirez

January 5, 2023

I was thinking about Leonard this morning. So very sorry to read that he passed, my sincerest sympathy and condolences to you Marilyn and family.

I first met Leonard at Kiwanis. Later he was so very helpful and supportive of me when my parents passed.

He was a kind, gentle man and touched many lives I am sure just based on my own experiences.

Blessings to you all,

Gregory

Kayla Goeppner (Messer)

December 8, 2020

Three things I will never forget:
1) The swing you attached to a big tree in your backyard (that was my favorite!)
2) “Playing” pool in your basement
3) Your smile

Thank you for all the memories over the years. James and Kinley will grow up knowing how remarkable their great papa was!

Love you - Rest In Peace, Papa!

Krista Gonzalez

December 8, 2020

Thankful for all the memories I got with you, Papa ❤ Watch over our family from heaven.. we will make you very proud!

Lenny Messer

December 6, 2020

One of my Best memories with my DAD...Go Dodgers, World Series Champions 2020!! Love and miss you.

Gayle Miyasaki

December 5, 2020

My parents always felt they were in good hands when they did business with Mr. Messer, and my dad and Mr. Messer even belonged to the same Thursday golf group for a while. On the job he was professional and kind. On the couple of occasions I saw him at social functions, he was warm and friendly, a truly nice person. I'm so sorry for your loss.

In honor of Lacy and in memory of Mr. Messer, I've made a donation to Poke-A-Dot's Rescue.

James Wolff

December 5, 2020

I first met Leonard playing softball years ago. And then he helped our family with my mothers service when she passed away. And then with my fathers. What a great help he was for us in our time of need. When ever we would see each other we would talk and he always had a kind word and a smile. He never forgot about you after he met you. He was a comfort to many. Thank You .

Dennis Messer

December 3, 2020

Rest in peace my brother.

Richard Sanborn

December 2, 2020

A wonderful person, will missed by all your friends. god bless you. Save me a spot in your foursome.
With deep respects,
Dick

richard E sanborn

December 2, 2020

a wonderful person, always willing to do some thing for any one.
we will really miss you Leonard.

Jenny Vasquez

December 1, 2020

I was just thinking of Leonard and remember how very kind and helpful he was. What a good person. God bless you.

Kerry & Tammy Suess

December 1, 2020

Leonard was always a very nice man. I got to visit with him at many office parties over the years, while working with Maralyn. Our love and prayers go out to Maralyn, Rick and the rest of the family.

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