LeRoy John Sieja

LeRoy Sieja, Henry Porras III, and I were inseparable comrades throughout our schooling in Michigan´s Upper Peninsula. Hailing from the modest confines of Wallace Elementary in Menominee County, we migrated as one to Stephenson High School. Our boyhood was a symphony of adrenaline and grit, a testament to adventure and camaraderie, filled with the pursuits of hunting, fishing, horseback riding, and the art of throwing knives. From logging to baling hay to building fences, our days were seasoned with toil amidst the farms and forests. And then came the allure of automobiles and the mysteries of the fairer sex.

Many an evening found me at the Sieja household in Wallace, where his mother wielded culinary magic, conjuring delectable meals such as my cherished Polish Pierogi. It was there that LeRoy imparted upon me the art of knife throwing, a skill learned from his elder brother Joe, a figure shrouded in myth and legend, a man of daring exploits and unfathomable coolness.

LeRoy, or "Little Joe" as we affectionately dubbed him, embodied the essence of the spirited cowboy portrayed by Michael Landon in "Bonanza." Compact yet robust, he possessed a swiftness that defied explanation. In the throes of conflict, his fists moved like lightning, leaving adversaries bewildered in their wake. Standing at a modest 5 feet 7 inches, he possessed an agility that mirrored his fictional namesake, effortlessly mounting steeds in a manner reminiscent of the famed television character. His repertoire extended to the lively Russian Cossack dance, a spectacle that never failed to captivate.

A devotee of chance, Lee found solace in the thrill of card games and billiards, his prowess seldom failing to garner victory. Our post-graduation ambitions of venturing westward to California shimmered with promise, but fate had other plans, weaving the tapestry of our lives in unexpected patterns. Lee and Hank, in an unexpected turn, embarked on a stint in cosmetology school in Green Bay, perhaps enticed by the prospect of romantic encounters. Our paths diverged, each charting a unique course through life's tumultuous terrain.

At our twentieth reunion from Stephenson High, we convened for a two-day celebration at my home in Rapid River, Michigan, where I lived with my then wife (another classmate),Diane Vincent. Lee´s wife Jane was there, and Hank´s wife Lois, another Stephenson alum, one year behind. That was the last best time we all had together, and the memories remain. In a gesture of enduring friendship, Lee presented Hank and I with throwing knives crafted by his own hands, tangible tokens of our lasting bond. Mine, a cherished keepsake, serves as a testament to the indelible imprint of our shared adventures.

LeRoy Joseph Sieja has left an indelible mark on my life, and his absence will be keenly felt. As we bid farewell, we hold onto the hope of a reunion in the realms beyond, where we may once again share in the joy of each other's company. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his memory live on in our hearts forever.

I remember Leroy being with Cathy & Bruce and having a good time at the cottage

My deepest sympathy to you, Jane and to all who loved and will miss him. May the love you shared, all your beautiful memories and the fact that he is out of pain and at peace, give you comfort.

My condolences Jane. Hope you are doing well.

Always friendly and a beautiful smile. Rest easy.