Leonard R. Wojtkowiak

Leonard R. Wojtkowiak, 85 of Gaylord, went home to be with his Lord and his beloved wife, Joan, on Monday, September 16, 2019.

Born on September 19, 1933 in Gaylord, Leonard was the son of Julius and Julia (Kosiara) Wojtkowiak.  He grew up on the family farm and attended Big Lake School.

From 1953-1955 Leonard served honorably in the United States Army.  Not long after returning home, he married the love of his life, Joan M. Hergenroeder, on June 16, 1956.  They were married 63 years when Joan preceded him in death on June 22, 2019.

Leonard was a long-time builder in Gaylord, working on many homes and businesses in the area.  He was known to be very creative and meticulous in his work.  He also worked as a carpenter and in the ski shop at Hidden Valley for many years.

Leonard was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, skiing and boating.  He also loved flying and he enjoyed RC model airplanes, spending many hours with the ALPS radio control flying club.

He enjoyed polka dancing with Joan and spending time with his family.  He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Leonard was a member of St. Mary Cathedral Parish and he was a 3rd degree member of Knights of Columbus Council #2781.

Leonard is survived by his children, Judy (Chris Balle) Mellon of Delaware, OH, Linda (Bill) Muzyl, Dan (Julie) Wojtkowiak and Sandra Wojtkowiak all of Gaylord; special grandchildren, Russell, Brentt, Mike, Courtney, Destiney, Cole, Seth, Luke, Danni and Logan; great-grandchildren, Jaz, Navy, Jaxon, Lily, Oaklyn, and Harper with one more on the way; a sister, Marlene Dobrzelewski of Gaylord; a brother, Clarence (Joan) Wojtkowiak of Westland; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and his wife, Joan, he was preceded in death by infant sons, Leonard and Phillip; a grandson, Marc Mellon and a brother-in-law, Robert Dobrzelewski.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00 noon Friday, September 20, 2019 at St. Mary Cathedral where the family will visit with friends beginning at 10:00 AM.  Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery.

Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to Hospice of Michigan or the Otsego County Commission on Aging.

Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service.  Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com