Leonard LOREEN

December 18, 1951 - March 20, 2024

Spokane - Leonard Ernest Loreen (Len) of Spokane, WA, was born at home during the great snowstorm of 1951 to Florence and Einer Loreen. He passed away suddenly and immediately at the age of 72 on March 20, 2024, during a traffic accident while driving from Spokane to Lewiston, ID, for work.

Leonard was a man of compassion, faith, service, and humor. His compassion always led him to put others before himself. He blessed everyone with his selfless service and joyful spirit. He was an incredibly hard worker, meticulous craftsman, woodworker, and carpenter. He was always smiling and regularly found time to spring his next best joke on any willing victim.

Leonard was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by Janet Loreen, his wife of 50 years; his three children, Erik (Renee), Sarah (Gary), and Nathan (Misty); his nine grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and his dog, Holly. He is also survived by his three sisters, one brother, and their spouses.

Leonard graduated from Rogers High School in 1970. He then attended EWSC (now EWU). He spent many years after working in all aspects of home construction. Later, he specialized in window and door replacement with McVay Brothers. Leonard had an eye for detail and held a deep appreciation for quality woodworking. In 2003 Leonard graduated from the Holy Family School of Radiology. He diligently worked as a mobile X-ray technician covering a wide area from Colville to Clarkston. He brought an infectious smile and good manner to his daily interaction with the staff and patients at every facility where he served.

Leonard was a dedicated member of Turning Point Church in north Spokane for many years. He served there on the usher, greeter, hospitality, and security, teams. On many Sundays, his kindness and love would greet guests at his church doors with both a smile and a joke.

Leonard's hobbies included woodworking, hiking, target shooting, camping, fishing, and bird watching. He adored spending time with family and friends and built lasting relationships with adults and children alike. He eagerly devoted himself to helping his neighbors and friends with anything from small home projects, to shoveling sidewalks (sometimes entire city blocks). He never boasted about his accomplishments, nor did he care for recognition for what he felt was his simple neighborly service. He is remembered by nearly everybody for his wonderful sense of humor. The Swedish Sven & Ollie jokes remained among his favorites.

When he was young, Leonard enjoyed racing his canoe in local competitions. In recent years he found satisfaction in restoring his vintage Ford pickup. He was a spontaneous singer. He sang while putting his grandchildren to sleep or in response to the vastness of God's creation while canoeing or hiking. Many of the famous hymns of the church touched him deeply. Leonard loved the beauty of classical music, and the fun of bluegrass and always retained his early appreciation for the music of John Denver.

The service to honor and remember Leonard will be held on Saturday, April 13th at 11:00 AM at Turning Point Church, 11911 N. Division St., Spokane, WA.