LeeRoy Schiefler

SCHIEFLER - LeeRoy Schiefler, age 97, of Grand Rapids, died peacefully on Sunday, January 25, 2009. He entered eternal life, joining his 'wonderful' wife, Marjorie, of 63 years, his two brothers, Tom and Lacy, his sister, Sally (Francis) Hoffman, his mother, Irene, his grandson, Brent Kellam Schiefler, and his son-in-law, Robert Locke of Fremont. LeeRoy was a man of incredible optimism and joyful heart who possessed a unique sense of humor and youthful innocence, along with a determined propensity for debating - with any willing audience - all the sticky points of his favorite subjects, politics and religion. He will be remembered fondly by many who have been touched by his constant kindness, gentle spirit and selfless generosity, but especially by his children, Jeanette Locke of Fremont, Susanne Potter of California, and Roger (Kathleen) Schiefler; his six grandchildren, John Locke, Phaedra (Jason) Wilson, Philene (Brent) Meeter, Courtney (Gregory) Gabridge, Sean Schiefler, Colin (Molly) Schiefler; nine great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. LeeRoy began his lifelong love affair with sports by playing baseball and football with his brothers. He played third base for Michigan State University and then as a proud graduate, began a career in teaching, mentoring and coaching in White Cloud, MI schools. His real dream, however, was to become a business owner, so in 1948 he purchased the legendary Wengers Bowling Alley which he owned for over 25 years. Simultaneously, he operated another successful business, Schiefler Tool and Engineering, from 1957 to 1982. He was a member of Fountain Street Church, the Kiwanis Club, the Silvertones Choir, the ACLU and the Elks, and spent many hours volunteering for Meals on Wheels, and other youth mentoring programs. However, his most passionate interests revolved around coaching and Little League. As a founder of the GAP baseball program in the inner city and founder of the Senior Northeast Senior League, he shared his gifts with many a young man in town. Upon retiring, LeeRoy enjoyed taking long walks with his dog, Omar, picking berries and making truly awesome blackberry pies, engaging in spirited games of cards and golf, listening to his beloved opera music, tending his prolific vegetable garden and puttering down the Thornapple River. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Clark Retirement Foundation, 1551 Franklin Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506, where LeeRoy received wonderful and loving care, or the District Nine Little League, 4880 Burlingame SW, Wyoming, MI 49509. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 3:30 p.m. at the Clark Chapel, 1551 Franklin St. SE. The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the memorial. Additional parking near the chapel is off Sherman Street. ARSULOWICZ BROTHERS MORTUARIES, INC. www.arsulowiczbrothers.com