Leonard "Lenny" Steven Smiseck

Leonard Steven Smiseck was born to this world in Barberton, Ohio, on October 21, 1941 and passed to the greater domain beyond on June 14, 2023, at age 81. He lived a life of love and dedication to his family, marked by strength and a contagious smile.

Lenny attended both Norton (Ohio) and Wadsworth High Schools, where he was an all-star football player affectionately known as “the Big Bopper.” Lenny attended one year at The Ohio State University as a member of the football and lacrosse teams. He later received his associate’s degree from Akron University. Lenny’s career spanned many decades, and he was nationally recognized as an expert repair estimator for coal-fired boilers. He worked many years at Babcock & Wilcox in Barberton and then went on to retire in 2010 from American Electric Power in Columbus.

Lenny also was the proud proprietor of “Lenny’s Pizza” in Doylestown, Ohio, between 1964 and 1983. He loved making friends of his customers and delighted in literally playing the clown each year in the Doylestown Fourth of July parade. With an oversized chef’s hat and long nose, he marched to the joy of many a child. Later in life, he loved spending time with his grandkids, giving of his whole heart.

Lenny was a member of Avery Lodge No. 493, Free & Accepted Masons, and of the Valley of Columbus, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Hilliard Lions Club, and Doylestown Jaycees.

Lenny is preceded in death by his parents, Cecilia and Steve, brother Ron, and daughter Renee (“Natee”). He is survived by his loving and dedicated wife of 60 years, Sharon, his children Steven (Wendy) and Kim (Eric), daughter-in-law Deidre, grandchildren (Andrew, Nathan, Kennedy, and Julia), sisters Loraine and Roberta, brother Raymond, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

Like many a mortal, Lenny was a complex man: Hard to know but a joy once you entered his circle. His legacy lies in his family, to which he gave much to shape others in positive ways. That legacy is bigger than Lenny, who himself was indeed a great man in spirit.

No services will be held at this time. In lieu of flowers, donations will be welcome in Lenny’s memory at your local Hospice center.