Adrian Leighton

Born April 27th, 1971 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, sadly passed away prior to Thanksgiving. He was a graduate of Gull Lake High School, played multiple sports and especially loved football. After high school graduation, Adrian attended Ferris State University and later on attended Western Michigan University where he went for 3+ years working his way toward a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology in Behavior Analysis. Adrian was private, funny and loyal to those he held close. He had an infectious laugh and a wicked love for practical jokes. Adrian had a genuine heart and a fierce love of God and his children! Anyone who knew Adrian knew about his girls; he spoke of them often, they were his world. He coached both girls in basketball, participated in their Girl Scouts, and encouraged them in their interests: art, creative writing and pageants. His creativity for coming up with endless, elaborate bedtime stories is something that all of his kids will forever cherish. Adrian's humble, trusting and sarcastic tone of voice and his contagious laugh are some things we will deeply miss. Adrian leaves behind his three cherished daughters-- Brisa and Braelyn Leighton and Destry Ziemba-Leighton and their mother, Candas Ziemba; two step-children--Casey and Lorin Moore and their mother, Maureen Moore; as well as three siblings--Michelle, Tracy and Mike Leighton and his mother, Barbara Rishel. He is preceded in death by his father, Richard Leighton. In lieu of a formal service, a few informal gatherings have taken place and friends are planning to meet and exchange stories, memories and friendship to honor Adrian at The Dock at Gull Lake in Richland on December 23rd, 2017 starting at 5 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to: Kalamazoo Ministry with Community at 500 N Edwards St Kalamazoo, MI 49007 There is also a GoFundMe page set up to help his children.