Obituary of Leonard Stanley Smith

In Loving Memory

Remembering Leonard Stanley Smith

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Leonard, 87. He departed this life on 4/8/2025 in home hospice, after a 2 year battle with colon cancer. Lenny, as he was known to family and friends, was a cherished member of our community, known for his remarkable spirit, kindness, immense knowledge, and unwavering commitment to family and friends.

Born on September 5th 1937, Lenny grew up in Northeast Minneapolis where he developed a love for hunting and fishing. He graduated from Edison High and attended the University of Minnesota pursuing a degree in Engineering and went on to become a highly sought after electrical engineer and inventor. Lenny has over 38 patents in his name, from microwave ovens, welders, most battery chargers, to many boating accessories. Throughout his life, Lenny touched the lives of many with his infectious enthusiasm and drive to be the best at everything he did.

Lenny was preceded in death by his father (Stanley John Smith) and mother (Katherine J (Stelmazek) Smith, brother Theodore Smith, mother-in-law Arlene (Spengler) Hess, brother-in laws Ron Hess and Gary Spengler Sr. He is survived by his wife of 37 years Linda Spengler, daughters Sharon Moline (Mike Little), Sue Doyle (Janelle Ross), Ame Sowada (Danny), Katie Struthers (Anthony), son Mathew Elton (Brittney), nephew Conrad Kupka, cousin Rick Smith, and 6 grandchildren Kaylynn, Gabriel & Lennyn Sowada, Freya and Maive Elton, and Jeremy Candler II, who will continue to honor his legacy. He leaves behind a legacy of inventions, sporting awards, and many country western dancing awards and trophies, culminating in a World Championship. He was proud to be a Mensa (Top IQ rating) and with his passing a huge encyclopedia of knowledge is also gone. He will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Lenny was passionate about the outdoors, particularly hunting, fishing, camping and traveling with wife Linda to dance competitions and dog shows across the country. He will be missed by his three beloved rottweilers Dynamite, Firecracker, and Laser. He was an amazing house husband and enjoyed cooking and canning tomatoes and salsa. He dedicated much of his free time to AA and helping others become and stay sober, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.

A celebration of Lenny's life will be held Friday June 13th starting at 6pm. Location: 9390 Jergen Place S. Cottage Grove. MN 55016. Outdoors, casual  setting with campfire gathering to share experiences and stories about Lenny. Light dinner served throughout the early evening. Come and help us celebrate the life of a very special and amazing man. Friends and family are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Lenny's memory.

Lenny will be greatly missed but his spirit will live on in the hearts and minds of all who had the honor of knowing him. Lenny has left an indelible mark on our lives, and although he is no longer with us, his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us.

Tributes and Condolences can be submitted on the tribute wall to the left or by clicking 'share a memory' if you are using a cell phone. 

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. Your messages of condolence and tributes to Lenny have been a source of comfort and strength.

We invite you to share your memories and stories of Lenny in the comments below, as we come together to celebrate his extraordinary life and the impact he had on all of us. Let us remember Lenny for his kindness, generosity, and the joy he brought into our lives.

As we bid farewell to Lenny, let us take solace in the beautiful memories we have shared and the legacy he leaves behind. May he finally rest in peace, knowing his love and light continue to shine in our hearts.

Rest in peace, Lenny. You will never be forgotten.