I have only now found our that Mr. LeBlanc left us so long ago.  I was doing some research on our 1971 graduating class from Assumption Grotto to see  how many students and teachers I could locate.    Mr. LeBlanc was my 8th grade homeroom teacher; he taught religion and language arts.  I remember his class distinctly, and eating lunch in room 14 (School B) with him and a few other students as we watched Jeopardy together and he taught us the correct pronunciation of "potpourri."  We had some great times in class, learning literature (like the poem "Evangeline") and how we  need others (everyone got one caramel and everyone could eat one caramel, but we had to figure out how to do so without bending our arms--the trick was to feed each other) or how it feels to be excluded (by choosing some students to wear a black armband for a day, and no one could speak to those students for the day), and so on.  Everyone laughed when one of our most gregarious classmates got TWO armbands!

Many times I have remembered the lessons he taught us, not just in spelling and English, but in religion class.  He once told us that we left this earth when the --what word was it?  desire?  passion?  love? for truth was greater than the (same word) for life.  This has stuck with me for the 50 years since I left Grotto.  

Russ LeBlanc was a great man and a great teacher, and I could go on and on about how much he did for us as students and as people.  He had a heart of gold, an amazing intelligence, a love of teaching, and a great sense of humor.  Judging from what others have written, he impacted a great number of young people over the relatively few years he was on this earth.  God keep him with his deceased loved ones in the highest heaven, in happiness, joy, love and communion with all the saints and our savior.

And to his daughter--if you ever wondered why your Dad never oiled your trike, it was because he could hear when you were getting too far from home!


As we approach the anniversary of Mr LeBlanc passing I can't but remember and give thanks for all he did to help me become the educator I was. A gentle giant with a heart of gold!\ miss you much!

I want to say im truly sorry I missed the Funeral Service of Mr. LeBlanc. He was my High School Principle at St. Agatha High School in Redford Twp. back in 1988. He was truly a great man and always told me that I could do or be anything I wanted to be. When I was a senior, he gave me an award " I dare you leadership award " I still have it, and it means a lot to me. I'm sorry for the loss of such a wonderful man. Thank you Me. Leblanc for all the great memories. Rest in peace sir.

To the LeBlanc Family, to the bottom of my heart, I send my condolences. I graduated from Pontiac Catholic under Mel Larson, but I knew that Russell tried to keep Pontiac Catholic strong with the best Christian values. He preached his love and caring and compassionate in a Christ like way that Our Lord expect him to be. He earned his wings at the heavenly gates of St. Peter He was loved by all and he will be dearly missed. God bless you Russell. You are with your wife Pat now. Robb Lenz Class of 1970 Pontiac Catholic High School Sacramento, California 95825

My sincere condolences go out to Mr. LeBlanc's family and friends. I was a senior at Pontiac Catholic when Mr. LeBlanc became our principal and was honored to have given him a tour of our school when he was considering the position. He was my principal for only a few months, but he made a great impression on me and I knew the school was in great hands when I graduated. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

I have a lot of fond memories of Pontiac Catholic and Mr. LeBlanc. He guided PC with integrity and sensor of humor. His constant support helped each of us become better students, classmates, and people. Thank you for caring for each of us! God Bless your family and our prayers are with them. PC Class of 84

I was so sorry to hear about Russ's passing. He was my principal at St. Clement and then I was his office manager four years after graduation. I have many great memories working with him. He had a dynamic personality. He was firm, fair, and hard-working. I am so thankful I had the opportunity to catch up with him a few years ago at my mom's funeral. God Bless you and keep you close by Him.

This man will be greatly missed. I'm so glad I got to see him in March 2014, have a nice dinner and remember the good times from Pontiac Catholic, the family will always be in my prayers

We are happy that we had lunch together with Russ in April. Our fond memories of trips to Frankenmuth with Russ and Pat will always be with us. Rest in peace my friend.

Where do I begin to describe the impact my uncle had on my life? Uncle Russ was an integral part of our family, a cornerstone of strength and reliability. Uncle Russ, along with Aunt Pat, Suzanne, and Danny shared in our family's lives through exciting vacations (most notably our trip out west), summers socializing and swimming at our home, excursions to downtown Detroit for lessons in culture and art, gatherings for every holiday, special occasion, and even 'just because'. I'm most appreciate of Uncle Russ's willingness to step-in with his love and support when my parents (Philip & Carol) moved to Florida and ultimately upon the passing of my Dad, last summer. We could count on Uncle Russ for everything and anything, you name it! He was an amazing uncle, confidante, father-figure, and through the years grew to be the dearest of friends. We love you "to the moon and back" and you will be sorely missed. The world has lost a precious gem, but the Heavens have gained an angel. With the deepest of love and admiration, we wish you peace ~ Sherry, Rich, Benjamin & Victoria xo

Our prayers and thoughts to Dan and Suzanne and Russ's dear grandsons...losing their loving and caring father and grandfather. It was such a great lost when my dear cousin Pat passed and now losing Russ cannot express how this has affected everyone. Russ was loved by so many people and will be greatly missed. Russ is now together with Pat.

My thoughts of you and your family are with you. Many fond memories. He is with your mom. Love Dee

I have such fond memories of Mr LeBlanc. I still remember him calling me into his office and saying "you're a good person, but you're making bad choices!" It took a while for that to sink it, but it finally did. He helped so many of us. Our class was extremely challenging, and even though we saw him red-faced often, he always took time to let us know we were important and that he cared about us all. He was a great man and he had a huge impact on many lives.

My thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Mr. LeBlanc. I was a former student of his ('66-'67) at St. Isaac Jogues in St Clair Shores. He was one of my favorite teachers throughout my school years. May you Rest In Peace, Mr. LeBlanc.

So many wonderful memories of a great mentor and friend. I am proud to have worked for and with him.

I was so shocked to hear of Russ' death. We have been good friends for many years dating back to the Assumptionaires. So many good times together. Saw Russ last year at an anniversary party for mutual friends and we had such a good time talking about old times and fun times. My sincere sympathy to his brother, Jim, and to his children. I know he is now reunited with Pat but we have lost a good friend and a good person. RIP dear friend.

Suzanne, Dan, and your families - I am so sorry for your loss. I remember your Dad fondly. I always enjoyed staying at your home when we were kids because your parents were so nice and welcoming. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

I was blessed to have Mr. LeBlanc as my principal at Pontiac Catholic. He was a good man who was inspirational to many young adults like myself. My prayers go out to his family.

Mr Leblanc was one of the many fine people that influenced me at Pontiac Catholic, he will be missed by all of us. I will never forget the fun we had when he was our chaperon on our senior trip along with his family. WE were his kids too. God Bless you.

So sorry to hear about Mr. LeBlanc's passing he was my principal at St. Clement from 72-76. I think us 76ers were his first 4 year group and I can tell you we were a challenge. RJ as we all called him was fair hardworking and just a very good person.I knew his office well spent a minute or two there and really respected the man even though it wasn't cool to show it.I saw him at a store 10yrs after I graduated he was looking away from me and as I walked up behind him I said "how are you doing RJ" and without even turning around he said "how are you Mr. O'Dell" he remembered my voice we had a great chat. God Speed Mr. LeBlanc

Best principal ever! Thank you Mr. Leblanc for being a part of our family at PC

So sorry for your loss. Mr. Leblanc was an exemplary principle, teacher and Christian. My parents felt a lot more secure knowing he was there for us at school. He improved and enriched Pontiac Catholic so much and was a wonderful father figure for us all. Heaven must need some straightening out for him to be called back to duty. God Bless.

So sorry for your loss. Mr. Leblanc was an exemplary principle, teacher and Christian. My parents felt a lot more secure knowing he was there for us at school. He improved and enriched Pontiac Catholic so much and was a wonderful father figure for us all. Heaven must need some straightening out for him to be called back to duty. God Bless. Posted by: Diane Draveski - MI - Pontiac Catholic class of 85 May 16, 2014

I have vivid memories of Mr. Leblanc and my dad in the St Matthew gym on sundays during basketball season, just shouting away at the referees! They had been asked to leave the gym on quite a few occations, if my memory serves correct. He was always kind to me and our family. My thoughts and prayers go out to Dan and Suzanne and their family. God Bless.

One of my all-time favorite teachers from any level grade school, high school, or college. He was my 6th/7th grade teacher at Assumption Grotto & would let us watch the end of Jeopardy (noon time back in those day), which was unheard of in a catholic school in the early 70s. I sat near the back & have fond memories of erasers whizzin' by me for some stupid remark I made or two. He also was our assistant baseball coach. He touched, no he had a positive impact on many, many students & some of us didn't realize it at the time!!!! God Bless Mr. LeBlanc& to his family, May the Peace of the Lord be with you all at this trying time.

Heartfelt sympathy to the family. Mr. LeBlanc was a wonderful man and the BEST principal at Pontiac Catholic. He and his family chaperoned our Senior class trip to the Bahamas. A trip that was uneventful, as the Royal British Navy docked on our island - which then became a challenge to keep the girls away from the Sailors!!! My mother got our return date mixed up and he stayed with me for several hours at Detroit Metro until she could get there. I graduated in 85 but never went to my prom. My girlfriend graduated in 86 and Mr. LeBlanc allowed me to come to hers as an outside guest. Many memories of Mr. LeBlanc. A man I will never forget!

I am very sorry for your loss LeBlanc family. Mr. LeBlanc ruled Pontiac Catholic with strong conviction. He was strict, but now almost 30 years later, I know why. He was grooming the students of PC into well rounded adults. God had a better job for you in Heaven, RJ. I hope there are no British Naval Ships near. Thank you for being you Mr. LeBlanc. Becky Robb DeYoung

We will miss Russ' big smile and caring gentleness. Our thoughts and prayers are with the LeBlanc Family. Peace & Love, Fred Schweihofer & Pat Gill

Sorry for your loss! Mr. LeBlanc is definitely one of those special people you meet in life that leaves a lasting impression! He treated his students as individuals and had a unique ability to treat us all like family! Many thoughts and prayers going out to his family during this time.

Mr. LeBlanc was a wonderful principal. He took time to understand his students and build relationships with them. After a particularly difficult incident with a teacher, I walked into his office at Pontiac Catholic. He barely looked up to see who it was before he asked, "What did he say now?" I was not a trouble maker, but had a firm grasp on who I was. Mr. LeBlanc understood and acknowledged the uniqueness of those around him. A great man and a huge loss.

I worked for Russ for 4 great years at Pontiac Catholic. He allowed his teachers to "teach" In turn, as an administrator, he was teaching us. The day I left Pontiac Catholic to move to Bishop Foley, he gave me a plaque with this Blessing: " Song of Blessing" The Lord let his face shine down up you, the sun rise up to meet you on your way, the Spirit of His love invade the circle of your friends, your vision keep changing day by day. Good times be the jingle in your pocket, life's hearth-stone there to warm you when you rise. Forgiving and growing be the way you know your soul; the heart be always open to surprise. Your life find all its seasons in the hollow of His Hand, His heart will be the ocean storing all your footprints in the sand. Falling down be only London bridges, down and out be only words for rhyme, a suitcase full of dreams be all that weighs your body down, your life pour out like sweet and good red wine. And time will tell your story, we will listen once again. Your song will have its moment, Leave your sign on the forehead of a friend. Russ certainly left his sign on many people.

I was a student at Pontiac Catholic when Mr. LeBlanc became our principal. I remember him as a very compassionate and caring man. He treated all of us with respect and genuinely seemed interested in our thoughts and opinions. he made me feel like a young adult and not just another teenager. I remember him chaperoning our senior trip to Toronto and having a great time with all us. I am sorry for your loss, but know that he touched so many children's lives throughout the years, he will never be forgotten.

I will always remember Mr. LeBlanc standing in the hallway with a red-face "gently persuading" us with his Principal voice to get into class before the bell rang. He was very personable and was always willing to laugh and share a joke with us. He had a positive affect on many students and teachers and will be missed by all! PC Alumni--88 grad

Well, Mr. LeBlanc and my family go back a few years. We knew him as a popular teacher at Assumption Grotto, where my parents were active in the A.G.A.C. When Mr. L went to St. Clement as principal, he came back to recruit some of us 8th graders, and 4 or 5 of us went. It was a wonderful decision. He was a fair, kind, stern leader. The kind that you want to aspire to be like when you grow up. He, along with his family accompanied our senior trip down to Daytona Beach, FL. on buses. I think they had as much fun as we did. Later in life, my parents were regulars at St. Bonaventure and our paths crossed again. Both Mr. & Mrs. were always full of hugs and smiles when we saw each other. After Mrs. passed away, and Mr. came to visit me at my store, I saw how much he missed her. I know that they are now together again and very happy. He always told me how proud he was of his children. I am sad for you, but happy that he was part of my life. He will be missed. May God bless you.

It is said that we are bonded more closely to our siblings than to our parents. Jim, I know the loss of your brother is devastating, and my heart goes out to you and to all of Mr. LeBlanc's family. Praying for God's peace and comfort to all of you in this very difficult time. God bless you.

I am so sorry for your loss. Russ and I were 'co-workers' (volunteers) at Beaumont Hospital Guest Services. I will greatly miss him; we got along so well and had fun while helping others. My husband would bring Russ soup or spaghetti sauce that he made and Russ was so appreciative of that. We shared so many stories and had a lot in common with our Catholic upbringing and our love of watching the Young and the Restless.

David M. Romano, a poem written in 1993 When tomorrow starts without me, And Im not there to see, If the sun should rise and find your eyes All filled with tears for me; I wish so much you wouldnt cry The way you did today, While thinking of the many things, We didnt get to say. I know how much you love me," "As much as I love you, And each time you think of me, I know youll miss me too; But when tomorrow starts without me, Please try to understand, That an angel came and called my name, And took me by the hand, And said my place was ready, In heaven far above And that Id have to leave behind All those I dearly love. But as I turned to walk away, A tear fell from my eye For all my life, Id always thought, I didnt want to die. I had so much to live for, So much left yet to do, It seemed almost impossible, That I was leaving you. I thought of all the yesterdays," "The good ones and the bad, The thought of all the love we shared, And all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday Just even for a while, Id say good-bye and kiss you And maybe see you smile. But then I fully realized That this could never be, For emptiness and memories, Would take the place of me. And when I thought of worldly things I might miss come tomorrow, I thought of you, and when I did My heart was filled with sorrow. But when I walked through heavens gates I felt so much at home When God looked down and smiled at me, From His great golden throne, He said, "This is eternity," "And all Ive promised you. Today your life on earth is past But here it starts anew. I promise no tomorrow, But today will always last, And since each days the same way, Theres no longing for the past. You have been so faithful, So trusting and so true. Though there were times You did some things You knew you shouldnt do. But you have been forgiven And now at last youre free. So wont you come and take my hand And share my life with me?" So when tomorrow starts without me, Dont think were far apart, For every time you think of me, Im right here, in your heart."

Over the nine years I have been attending mass at St. Bonaventure along with my wife, I new Russ to be a man of great importance to his wife, family, fellow worshipers, and friends. He had a heart of Gold, spoke the word of God eloquently, and never forgot a friend's birthday. His genuine self, I know, will be missed. Thank you for your friendship Russ and may you be at peace in Paradise. Jim Sobczynski

Russ and me were schoolmates through Grotto and for three yrs. at Sacred Heart. We used to commute together to Sacred Heart with Ken Kulinski and later brother Jim. Russ also spent a good deal of time on the playground behind my parents home. We played a lot of pick up games back then. Although I left MI. and we had little contact for many years we always managed to be good friends when we got together. Russ was always a fine boy and man, intelligent, generous, loyal and altruistic. He will be missed by me and many others.

As they say, "Mighty Proud to Know you" Haven't visited enough, but fun conversations that last forever, when we did. Fun as kids. Say hello to Uncle Woody!

Russ was one of our dearest friends we shared good times  so good. the Assumptionaires brought us close together &we became brothers &sisters for life.Now he is in a better place with his beloved Pat.

My condolences to Mr. LeBlanc's family and friends. Mr. LeBlanc was always my favorite principal at St. Clement. I will always remember him as someone you could talk to and who really cared about his students.

My condolences to the family. He was my high school principal from 1976-1977 AT Saint Clement High school

I remember Mr. LeBlanc as our principal at St. Clement High School. I remember when he left to take another position. I was disappointed that I wouldn't have him as my principal for all of my years in high school. Rest in peace, Mr. LeBlanc.

I was shocked and saddened to see Mr. LeBlanc's obituary. He was my high school principal from1972-76 at St Clement. Even back then, I knew he was a special person. Early on, I realized his bark was worse than his bite. There was never any doubt, he cared about each and every one of us---like a shepherd caring for his lambs. Since graduation, I probably only saw him a few times but I talked about him countless times. Whenever people talked about their high school days, I talked about "Mr. LeBlanc". I guess some might call him "old school". He acted like a parent first and a principal second. When he was angry, his voice could be heard on all 3 floors. He was everywhere--always on guard. He was tough but he was kind. We always knew he cared very deeply. That means a lot--no matter what age you are. I happened to know Mr. LeBlanc taught night classes to the veterans for the old Detroit College of Business. The classes were held at St Clement and I was a high school student working in the office at night. Obviously, he was a hard worker and I'm sure a Catholic school principal didn't make a lot of money. One night, I was driving the bowling team back to school through a winter storm. I was very late getting to my night job in the office. I ran in the door and attempted to apologize. I thought Mr. LeBlanc was going to be angry. Instead, he met me at the door with a hug and said he had been waiting and worrying. (And my mother had been calling. ) There was also a day when I--a very shy student overwhelmed and frustrated by....I no longer remember what it was--sat in Mr. LeBlanc's office crying my eyes out while he just sat and listened and handed me a box of tissue. I no longer recall the issue but I never forgot his compassion. The world has lost a good man. I will never forget him. My sympathy to his family.

You helped to inspire and direct so many young people. Rest in Peace dear man.

R I P Mr LeBlanc!!! Prayers & condolences to your family.....you were there for us.....wish/ hope we were there for you.....God Speed....

REMEMBER HIM BEING A KIND PERSON AT ST. CLEMENTS HIGH SCHOOL.

Mr. LeBlanc was a great principal when he was at St. Clemens High School. He was always there for you and understand teenagers very well. He was a great role model. There are no words to say at this difficult time to his family and friends. Just remember the memories and all the good times shared together.

Edit to previous post. As a student spelling was important the word understand in my post should be understood.

So many memories of Mr. LeBlanc through my high school years at St. Clement (1978 graduate). He was such a BIG personality and a very good and deeply religous man. I remember many talks in his office and always a lesson learned. I would later see him and Pat at the annual St. Malachy Church festivals and after her passing, I'd see him on Good Fridays at the Capuchin monastery. He always remembered me by name after all those years!! He was a role model and helped to shape the lives of many. Rest in peace Mr. LeBlanc.

Just received the sad news about Russ, but unfortunately will be out of town and unable to attend the visitation and funeral. There are just too many happy memories about Russ to begin to recount. He will be sorely missed.

I am so very sad to see that Russ has passed away so suddenly. My mom and dad, Marge Glunk and Kirk Glunk knew Russ from way back in their younger school days and remained very close friends throughout their lifetime. After my parents passed away, Russ would check in on me through Facebook from time to time. He was a very kind man. My condolences go out to all of you who loved him. As caring as he was, I know he touched many lives and I know many are hurting. Love especially to his family at this time. My sister, Kim, and I send our deepest condolences.

Russ was a very fine human being and an inspiration for me. I deeply appreciate the example he gave, particularly his warmth and naturalness. How good it is to have had such a person in our lives. Thank you Russ. Every condolence to his family, so dear to him. May your experience of his enduring love for you always warm and encourage you.

Mr. LeBlanc was my teacher and assistant baseball coach during my 7th & 8th grade years at Assumption Grotto ('72). I remember him fondly and appreciate his influence. My condolences to his family.

I think Mr. LeBlancs's first year as principal at St. Clement's was my first (and only) year there, too. We naturally gravitated to and helped each other. He occasionally bummed a cigarette from me and we would smoke in his office (which you could do back in thsoe days...). He was a good man. Jeff Tadajewski St. Clement's (1973)

Russ was a great leader and friend to the Assumptionaires CYO Young Adult Club membership. With fond memories, we send our Deepest Sympathy to his family!

Jim and Cathy, Please know that we are thinking of you and your loss of your Brother, Jim. How sad for all. I too have lost my (only) Brother,and Charlie his (only) Sister, and it is a memory that never goes away. However, Thank Heavens for all the Memories of the Good Times you have shared. Condolences to You and Your Family are sent with our Love. Charlie and Ada Land

Mr. LeBlanc was instrumental in helping direct me towards achieving my goals while at St. Clement. When he sensed I was veering off course, he was so good at reminding me of what I wanted - family, college, athletics. Great memory... My soph year, theatre production of The Crucible, I am John Proctor. A few of the lines in the play were somewhat controversial (especially to my Mom!). I'll never forget how calm and professionally he handled it. He quickly found a solution that satisfied Mom, and he taught me, the embarassed 15 year old a lesson. He told me she got involved because loving/caring parents do that! I never forgot that when I was a parent. Rest in peace Mr. LeBlanc.

Mr. LeBlanc was the best principal at St. Clement. He also could talk to you and help you when you needed it. He guided so many students, and it was such a great pleasure going to St. Clement while he was there. He has taught me so much, and I will never forget him. Another angel in heaven from St. Clement. Keep watch over all of us like you did before.

i have heartfelt memories of mr.leblanc. those days when i hit sister liz and flunked her class because of it and sitting in his office with him shaking his head and kinda laughing and said "YOU KNOW YOUR GOING TO GET IT WORSE WHEN YOU GET HOME*. i will always remember him. a good man. a good teacher...and a remarkable human being. RIP

Mr. LeBlanc was my principal at Pontiac Catholic back in the 80s. A great guy. He will be missed. Prayers going out to his family. God bless, Dave

Our Deepest sympathies to the LeBlanc family. He was an instrumental and influentially strong man to all of his students at Pontiac Catholic High School. We will be forever grateful for everything he instilled in all of us. Rest in Peace Mr. LeBlanc, and thank you.

As evidenced by all the condolences written herein and along with his kind and selfless life example, Russ was one of a kind and will be dearly missed. I have known him for quite a few years through mutual friends and have always thought that he was a very special and spiritual individual who was bright and articulate. My hubby (who has since passed) always enjoyed his company and we both thought highly of him. Now that he is gone home to the Lord and to be with the love of his life, Pat, his physical absence will leave a void, but his memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who were privileged to have loved and known him. With deepest sympathy to his family. He will be missed by many. Sybil Settles, Friend

I had the pleasure of knowing Mr. LeBlanc as principal at Pontiac Catholic High School. I was always thankful that he took the time to listen to what I had to say. Enjoy heaven R.J. you deserve it!

Kirsten, You may not remember me. I worked at Holy Innocents Church while you were a teacher at the school with Gerald Miller as the Principal. The school closed at the end of the 2001/2002 school year. Your father-in-law was my teacher in 7th & 8th grade at Assumption Grotto. He was a good teacher. I am sorry for your lose.

Where do you begin when trying to share something special about Russ. So many thoughts and events whirl in my mind as his kindness and faith was something greater than the human heart and spirit could understand. Russ was an active loving soul with his warmth and smile and heart made of gold. His gentle and humble ways rubbed off on those he met. He was the living presence of Christ - always loving and caring, welcoming, remembering you with a card that had a meaning, not just the first one he saw. You could feel his love and positive energy across the room. His spirit will remain in the chapel at Saint Bonaventure Monastery; his love for God demonstrated in his loving service to others is forever imprinted in that sacred dwelling. We Love You "Saint" Russ and will see you again. Please watch over us and guide us to be loving servants to each other.

I am overwhelmed with the expressions of concern and the prayers that our family has received this past week. It is clear that Russ was beloved by many. We are fortunate to have been able to share in his life. I am proud to be his brother and Cathy and I will miss him very much.

I am so very sorry for your loss. I will be praying for all of you. God Bless him and the entire family.

I will always be grateful for the opportunity to reunite with Mr. LeBlanc and his family during the past 10 or so years. He was a really good man who lead by example. My fondest memories range from a good talking to in his office at St.Clement to a quite, impromptu dinner at Big Boy. You will be missed by many!

We are so deeply sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Jenkins Family

We will always remember Mr. LeBlanc's warm welcome and smile. Such a giving and caring man I will never forget having breakfast with you at the small elementary school lunch tables for specials persons day at Dekeyser with the kids! Xo love The Laymans

OBITUARY

Russell J. LeBlanc

January 27, 1942 – May 13, 2014

A.H. Peters Funeral Home

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