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Leonard Raymond Stevens, 80, of Sturgis passed away early Monday morning, July 23, 2012, at his home.
He was born Jan. 23, 1932, in Athens, a son of the late Clarence and Marie (Johnson) Stevens.
Leonard resided nearly his whole life in the Fawn River and Sturgis area. On Oct. 5, 1979, he married Sally Hepner in Niles.
He was a self-employed building contractor, owning and operating Stevens and Son Construction in Sturgis and for 16 years he was employed by Formed Tubes in Sturgis.
Leonard was baptized at First Baptist Church in Sturgis and was a former member of Eagles Lodge #1314. Leonard was very musically talented and could play nearly any instrument, all by ear. He enjoyed many years of playing in the family dance band that included his grandfather, father and brothers. He also enjoyed gardening, working in his yard and spending time in northern Michigan.
Leonard had a true love and appreciation for the outdoors and hunting especially deer hunting.
He is survived by his wife, Sally; a son, Scott (Debbie) Stevens of Sturgis; three daughters, Patricia (Rocky) Rhodes of Nashville, Tenn., Sandi (Bruce) VanEmon of Three Rivers and Miki Rees of Sturgis; a stepdaughter, Kelly (Joe) Brooks of Burr Oak; a stepson, Jeff Hepner of Sturgis; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; two sisters, Lorna McComb of Huntertown, Ind., and Sharon (Sam) Fulk of Angola, Ind.; a brother, Gerald Stevens of Traverse City and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Dorene Whitmore; and a brother, Harry Stevens.
In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation. A private family gathering and celebration of Leonard’s life will take place at a later date.
Hackman Family Funeral Homes — Hackman Chapel, 114 S. Nottawa St., Sturgis, is entrusted with the arrangements.
The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mr. Stevens’ memory consider Hospice of Sturgis, P.O. Box 126, Sturgis, MI 49091.
His obituary is also at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhome.com, where personal messages of support may be left for the family.
