Lee Victor Leneker

Born on August 16, 1949, in Richland, Washington, Vic lived a life defined by courage, dedication, adventure, and devotion to his family. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and friend whose presence left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Vic proudly served his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War. As a helicopter door gunner with the call sign “Rabbit”, he demonstrated extraordinary bravery under combat conditions. His service was recognized through numerous military decorations, including the Purple Heart, Air Medal with “V” Device and Numeral 3, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation Badge. These honors reflected not only his courage but also his unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers and his country.

Following his military service, Vic built a successful 28-year career with L&E Bottling Company. At the age of 52, Vic retired with his wife, Diana, to travel the world and spend time with his grandkids. He managed to get to 6 continents and 32 countries. He stated his favorite trip was to Morocco, where he raced jeeps across the Sahara Desert and rode camels at sunset. They also walked the Great Wall of China, hiked to Machu Picchu, danced on the beach in Rio de Janeiro under the moonlight, drank wine under the Eiffel Tower, kissed the Blarney Stone, and sailed on the Mekong Delta. He drank sangria in Spain and Aperol Spritz in Italy, and sampled all the local beers in every country he visited. He truly was a Renaissance man, constantly reinventing himself.

His greatest joy came from his family. He shared 54 years with his wife, Diana, and was a devoted dad to son Kevin Leneker, son Corey Leneker and his wife Amy, son Casey Leneker and his wife Amanda, and daughter Katie Hynes and her husband John.

Nothing brought Vic greater happiness than being “POPS” to his grandkids: Bryson, Myles, Audrey, Clara, Olivia, and Ellie. He took great pride in watching them grow and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them.

Those who knew Vic will remember his will, strength, resilience, loyalty, sense of humor, and quiet confidence from a life well-lived. He faced challenges with courage, loved deeply, and never forgot the importance of family and friendship. Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort in the countless memories he leaves with us and the legacy of honor, love, and perseverance that will continue through his family. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.