Sept. 5, 1918 – Aug. 28, 2009

Leonard Metz was born on Sept. 5, 1918, in Cantrall. He led a happy and holy life that ended on Aug. 28. His life was devoted to his three loves – God, family and friends. He was a humble and quiet man who worked as a postal clerk for 35 years to financially support his family of seven children. He was a devout Catholic who attended Blessed Sacrament Church daily except Sundays. When one of his sons was shot severely in a holdup, he said, “Don’t just pray for Steve, but pray for the person who committed the crime – he is in greater need of your prayers.” He taught his strong values by example and his children learned that “can’t” is a four-letter word. While he could not afford to provide his children a college education, he provided them with the tools and work ethic to allow them all to succeed professionally. He had no enemies and respected everyone with dignity, no matter their status in life.

Mr. Metz was a loving husband to his wife for more than 52 years and devoted 45 years of his life to the care of his daughter, Kathy, who had both mental and physical challenges, but always knew that Dad was there for her. He truly appreciated the assistance of Sparc. He fought for his country in World War II and looked forward to the annual reunions with his army buddies. He would deliver meals or take “old’ people to the doctor, even though he was 20 years older than them. He was always appreciative of any assistance provided and kept in touch with friends and relatives with letters, especially at Christmas time.

The world is a better place because of his life.

Pat Metz Springfield