Leslie Jean Eringaard-Poleo

Leslie Jean Eringaard-Poleo, 52, of Ann Arbor, MI passed away unexpectedly and peacefully at home on April 20, 2014. She was born in Big Rapids, MI on April 22, 1962, to Cornelius and Lana Eringaard. Leslie graduated from Grand Rapids Central High School in 1980. She earned her AA degree from Grand Rapids Community College in 1982, a BGS from the University of Michigan in 1984 and an MSW from the University of Michigan in 1987. She married Mark Poleo in 1993. She is survived by Mark and their two sons, Matthew Poleo (20) and Nicholas Poleo (16). Leslie is also survived by parents, Lana Eringaard and Robert Van Kolken of Grand Rapids, MI; Cornelius and Sue Eringaard of Traverse City, MI; sister, Kimberly Crosby (husband, John Crosby) of Grand Rapids, MI; sisters, Emily Eringaard and Sarah Eringaard of Traverse City, MI; four loving nieces and nephews; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Leslie will be remembered by those who knew her for her numerous acts of kindness, love and empathy for the needs of others. She worked as a social therapist in both Washtenaw and Wayne Counties. She was recently employed with Community Care in Taylor, MI. Her compassion for people also extended to animals. She supported the Humane Society of Huron Valley. Leslie and her rescue dog Callie trained and volunteered for Therapaws of Michigan. During her college years, she worked for the Michigan Daily as a reporter and later was employed by the Los Angeles Times in Detroit before settling in on her true calling as a counselor. In her spare time she enjoyed writing and drawing. She is best known by those who knew her well as a devoted mother, trusted confidante, reader, writer, artist. She was deeply loved and will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Humane Society of Huron Valley. (HSHV.org/donate) A memorial service will held at Old St. Patrick Church, 5671 Whitmore Lake Rd., Ann Arbor MI, Friday, May 2 at 11. A reception at the church hall will be held following the service. Arrangements under the direction of Muehlig Funeral Chapel, Ann Arbor, MI.