Leon Stephen Paler

Leon Stephen Paler of White Lake, MI was born June 2, 1940, in Detroit, MI to Joseph and Ksenia Paler. He went to be with the lord on December 18, 2025, at the age of 85.
Leon is survived by his wife Gail Marien-Paler, son Greg Paler, brother Dr. Ronald Paler, and eight grandkids. He will be reunited in heaven with his son Rick Paler and daughter Sharon Paler, and sister Janet Forgione, and many others.
Lee grew up on Ternes Street in Detroit, MI and graduated from Mackenzie High School, where he played basketball and football. He worked hard when he was young. In his own words, "I never received an allowance but earned money by selling firecrackers and delivering newspapers. I later made BIG MONEY selling ice cream during the summer from a bike, motor scooter and then a truck. I would also go into bars and shine shoes for 15 cents at 8 years old."
In the early 1960s, Lee served in the Army for two years. He completed boot camp at Fort Knox, KY, then was permanently assigned to Fort Bragg, NC, where his son Rick was born. He was very honored to serve the United States of America. After serving, Lee worked at Ford Motor Company for 43 years in various engineering roles. Lee later received his bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from Sienna Heights College in Detroit, MI.
Lee and the late Marilyn Paler raised three wonderful children, Rick, Sharon, and Greg, in Northville, MI. They proudly sent them to Catholic schools, supported their sport activities, and enjoyed spending time with them.
Later, Lee married Gail Marien and they moved to White Lake, MI. Living on the lake was always his goal. He received his builders contract license and built a beautiful house on Long Lake. He loved boating, playing tennis in Naples, FL and spending time with his grandkids. The Fourth of July was a great time with the family every year, celebrating his service and his family.
Lee was very proud of his Ukrainian heritage. In 2007, Lee and his brother Ron visited Ukraine together to learn more about where their parents lived. They visited relatives and explored the country, including finding remnants of their mother's original house, receiving a painting of it from the local people. To the very end of his life, all you would have to say, "You are Ukrainian" and Lee would perk up with a big smile and clap his hands.
Funeral mass from St. William Catholic Church, 531 Common Street, Walled Lake, Monday, December 22, 2025 at 10 AM. Visitation 9:30 to 10:00 AM at church.. Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemtery.