Obituary of Leonard Schulte

Leonard, our Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, Uncle, Great-Uncle, Brother, Friend, hero and now our Angel. Leonard, passed away peacefully December 16, 2021. Leonard was born in Heisler on July 21, 1925 to Joseph Sr. and Annie (Blaeser) Schulte. Leonard had a rough few years battling osteomyelitis (in 1937 and again in 1974) but nothing ever slowed him down. Leonard and Marcella grew up miles apart and both attended St. Peter’s church. Their love was so strong not even a snow storm could keep them from exchanging their vows December 27, 1955. They took over the Schulte homestead, in 1957, south of Strome and started raising their family of eight children: Glen, Lorn, Merl, Iva, Ann, Lyn, Leon, and Fay. Leonard kept the farm in order with all the helping hands. He raised pigs, chicken and cows. Leonard’s favorite breed being Shorthorn. Lorn relied on dad's knowledge and expertise each year with the cattle. Until this fall, he picked Lorn’s bulls. Off the farm, Leonard endeared his passion for baseball for years coaching in Heisler. Leonard was community oriented, belonging to the Heisler Elks, as well as a 4-H leader for many years. In 1995, Leonard and Marcella retired off the farm and moved into Strome leaving Lorn on the homestead. Glen and Lorn took over the family farm. Leonard would still make his trips to the farm to keep things in order. Now living across the back alley from the Strome Senior Center, he now became the coffee pot starter at 5:30 a.m. Leonard loved to visit with everybody that walked through the door. He always made sure to acknowledge you and often a joke or nickname that made you smile. His card playing skills were top notch, always ready to play the card even before you played yours. Family gatherings always had a deck of cards. When Leonard was not playing cards you would find him at Heisler ball diamond calling the Cardinal games. He loved watching sports, particularly the Oilers and Blue Jays, or spending time with his family. His family was truly the most precious thing to him. The more there was the more love he had, 23 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. He loved each one beyond measure and anytime you came to visit he always had candy beside his chair, jube-jubes, peppermints and jelly beans…he didn’t care for the fancy ones. You never left without a hug. Leonard always made sure to offer you a Molson Canadian, his words “I do not like to drink alone.” Health reasons separated Leonard and Marcella from living together, nevertheless, it was evident that Leonard loved Marcella so dearly. In January 2016, Leonard moved to his final home as he needed some extra care at Providence Place. Leonard adored “his girls” that cared for him, especially little Claire, until he passed peacefully. Leonard was simple…he loved each one like he was his own. He often said “I love everybody”. He never forgot anyone’s name. A past time for Leonard was reading the local history books. His mind was sharp until the end. Leonard was a historian; a man that truly cared for others. Left to cherish his memory: his wife, Marcella, Glen of Strome, Lorn (Patty) of Strome, Merl (Elaine) of Delisle, SK, Iva (Albert Etheridge) of Pigeon Lake, Ann (Barry Oviatt) of Delisle, SK, Lyn (Calvin) of Leduc, Leon (Tammy) of Conroe, Texas and Fay (Dan Fossen) of Forestburg, and his 23 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and extended family…60 plus with significant others. Brother: Joseph Jr. Schulte; Sisters: Helen and Alma Martz; many nieces & nephews. He will be deeply missed. Leonard was pre-deceased by: Parents: Joseph Sr. & Annie (Blaeser) Schulte; Brothers: Norman Schulte, Harry Schulte, Arthur Schulte; Sisters: Valeria Niehaus, Maryanna Martz Donations can be made to St. Peter’s Restoration Fund and Providence Place. Celebration of Leonard's life will be held at a future date. Grandpa, you sparked a room with your smile. Grandpa, you taught us to love unconditionally no matter what. Grandpa, you taught us to be kind. Grandpa, you taught us to be grateful. Grandpa, you taught us no matter how weak your body was to be strong. Grandpa, you taught us to be hard working but still have time to laugh. Grandpa, you taught us to not complain and live each day like it’s your last. Grandpa, may the Molson’s be cold up above. He knocked and they answered, may his eternal light shine bright upon us as he lays to rest. Grandpa, go rest, we love you and will miss you every single day.