Leonard Wayne Strefling, 73, of Lawrence, passed away surrounded by family, Monday, July 29, 2024, at his home in Lawrence. He was born Dec. 13, 1950, in Watervliet, Michigan, the son of William Strefling and Lena (Geik) Strefling.
Leonard worked as a teacher for 31 years at Lawrence Public Schools. The impact he made on his students and co-workers was immense. He coached all sports for Lawrence. One of his proudest accomplishments was serving as assistant coach during the 1997 football season when Lawrence won the state championship.
During his free time, he loved to sing and sang often. Music was a big part of his life that brought him countless hours of joy. However, Leonard was the happiest when spending time with his family at their beloved house on Reynolds Lake. He loved the beauty of living on a lake and it was the perfect spot to host family and friend get-togethers.
He is survived by the love of his life, Teri (Sisson) Strefling; beloved daughters, Amy Strefling and Abby (John) Garey; his only grandchild, who he adored, Nathaniel Garey; two brothers, Rudy (Barbara) Strefling and Steve (Patti) Strefling; one sister, Jane (Ron) Buckhout and many cherished nieces and nephews.
Leonard was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Irma Tursi, Donald Strefling, Harold Strefling and Billy Strefling.
Family and friends are invited to visit Friday, Aug. 9, from 3 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home, 502 W. Michigan Ave., Paw Paw.
Leonard’s family will be having a private family service to remember him. He will be laid to rest at Hill Cemetery, Lawrence.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church, Paw Paw, Lawrence Alumni Association or Centrica Care Navigators Hospice.
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