Leonard Silesky

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Silesky, Leonard passed away at his home at University House in Issaquah, WA on August 28th. At 90 years, Leonard lived a long and active life. Born in 1924 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Leonard spent all but his final year of life in Minnesota with his many friends. Last year, he decided to move to the Northwest to be closer to his three children and four grandchildren. Leonard grew up in Pine City, Minnesota with his parents and two brothers. During high school as a boy scout, Leonard achieved the highest rank of "Eagle." He later served in the Army in both China and India during WWII. He moved his young family to Minneapolis in 1952 and started a very successful grocery distribution business with his brother-in law, David Himmelman. Leonard was committed to supporting numerous charities and various "liberal causes" throughout his life. He believed strongly in civil rights, willing to express his views on this important cause back in the early 60s. Leonard was also active for many years in B'nai B'rith, serving as president of his local St. Louis Park Chapter as well as the Anti-Defamation league. Leonard spent the majority of his retirement years side by side with his brother Walter, as volunteers with the STEP Program in St. Louis Park, serving the underprivileged and disabled needing assistance. Leonard was an avid golfer and tennis player and, to the very end, a committed Minne-sota sports fan, both at the collegiate and professional levels. Leonard was preceded in death by his wife Rivian and brothers Walter & Ralph. Leonard is survived by his son Jeffery, his daughters Sherri Silesky and Tami Rogers, his daughter-in law Francine Gaillour, son-in-law Mark Rogers and his beloved grandchildren Benjamin & Elena Silesky and Molly & Samantha Dubow. Funeral services followed by burial will be held at the Minneapolis Jewish Cemetery Chapel on Tuesday, September 2nd at 10:00 am. SHIVA will be held Tuesday at 7:00 pm at Adath Jeshurun Congregation. In lieu of flowers, Donations are requested to the following charities: The St. Louis Park Emergency Program (STEP), the Minneapolis Jewish Federation or The Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence in Washington, D.C. Arrangements by Adath Jeshurun Chevra Kavod Hamet and Washburn McReavy 952-920-3996.

Published on August 31, 2014