Leonard Robert Giese

Leonard Robert Giese, a resident of Marengo, Illinois, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025, at the age of 78. Born in Chicago on October 3, 1947, Leonard was the cherished son of Wilbur and Dolores (Hampton) Giese. He spent his early years in Chicago alongside his twin sister, Lee, before the family settled in Des Plaines. Leonard graduated from Maine West High School, where the foundation was laid for a life rich in curiosity, creativity, and adventure.

Following high school, Leonard proudly served in the United States Air Force, working as a mechanic on the Douglas AC-47 and other mission-essential equipment. After his service, his career continued to grow as he became a draftsman and later a senior project engineer, designing automation systems for factories producing a wide range of products. His work carried him and his family across the country, creating homes and memories in Streamwood and Rockford, Illinois; Smyrna, Tennessee; Gilbert, Arizona; Algonquin, Illinois; and Camdenton, Missouri, before they made Marengo their home in 2021.

In 1976, Leonard met the love of his life, Cynthia “Cyndy” Sanders. Their first date, on a playground, marked the beginning of a beautiful love story. They married in 1977 and together raised three children: Robert, September, and Courtney. Leonard’s family meant everything to him. He was a devoted husband and father who made sure his children always knew how deeply he loved them and how proud he was of each of them.

Music was one of Leonard’s lifelong passions. He played guitar in several bands, including The Fabulous Gilberts, and no matter where he lived, he always found others to make music with. His love of playing followed him everywhere, even leading to a surprise performance at a party held in his honor. A man of many talents, Leonard was also a 4th-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, a discipline he practiced and taught for many years, sharing not only his skill but his patience and encouragement with others.

Leonard was a gifted artist whose creativity shined brightly through every aspect of his life. A love of trains inspired him to build a detailed model railroad that reflected his family’s journey. After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, Leonard discovered painting, a pursuit that brought him great peace and joy. Remarkably, when he painted, his hands were steady, allowing him to create beautiful works of art that he generously shared. His talent was recognized when his artwork was featured on the front page of the Lake Sun Leader for a local art show.

Leonard will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Cyndy Giese; his children Robert (Jennifer) Giese, September (Bryan) Hughes, and Courtney Giese-Hudoba (Jason Hudoba); his grandchildren Sophie Curran, Nola Hughes, Archer Hughes, Weston Hughes, Owen Hudoba, Finleigh Hudoba, and Maeve Hudoba; his twin sister, Lee Giese; and many dear family members and friends who were touched by his kindness and humor.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur and Dolores Giese, and his brother, Donald Giese.

Leonard’s life was filled with laughter, creativity, and a deep, abiding love for those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his legacy of love and artistry will never be forgotten.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, January 7th, 2026 from 3:00pm to 6:00pm, with a Memorial Service beginning at 5:30pm, at Marengo-Union Funeral Home, 505 E. Grant Highway, Marengo, IL 60152. Military Honors will take place immediately after the service.