Leonard Scott

Leonard Scott, 91, of Traverse City went peacefully to be with the Lord on December 23, 2024 at Paul Oliver Hospital LTC in Frankfort with his wife by his side. He was born on October 9, 1933 in Grand Haven, MI to the late Ernest K. and Tina (Gankema) Scott. After graduating from the University of Michigan in 1956 with a B.S. in architecture / design, Len would enter the Navy’s Officer Candidate School in Rhode Island to eventually serve as the officer in charge of Support Services at Navy Headquarters in Yokosuka, Japan. While there, he taught English to Japanese professionals who would establish The Scott English Society to honor Len for his dedication and friendship, bringing Len and Lori back to Japan for a 25-year reunion. After seven years of active duty, Len transferred to the Navy Reserves, earning the rank of Commander before retiring in 1979. Len’s professional life outside the Navy saw him working for Kaiser Engineers in Oakland, CA until moving back to Michigan in June, 1967. He would go on to own and operate a Dunkin’ Donuts and pizza restaurant in Indianapolis, IN where he enjoyed hosting youth fundraisers. In June of 1967, while at his brother‘s birthday party, Len fell in love at first sight with the former Lori Kowalski of Chicago. He told his brother that night, “I’m going to marry that girl.” About a year later, on July 6, 1968 Len and Lori married. In 1992, Len and Lori moved to Traverse City and became active members at Faith Reformed Church. Len would go on to serve in Stephen Ministries and as president of Love, INC (now Love Thy Neighbor) and was instrumental in its significant growth and impact in the community. Because of his gentle spirit, Len was an excellent mentor to children through his time spent as a Sunday School teacher, Kid’s Hope volunteer and substitute teacher at TCAPS and TC Christian. Len loved music, especially jazz and swing. He played trumpet in junior and senior high band and sang in the U of M Union Opera Mens Chorus. Len’s other hobbies included reading, attending vintage car shows and of course eating popcorn. Len’s family brought him great joy, especially his grandchildren who had a very special place in his heart. Len was a true gentleman and will be lovingly remembered for his faith, his kindness and his servant’s heart. Len is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Lori; their children, Jeff (Lori), Cindy (Brian) Keefe, and Matthew (Laurie); grandchildren Tyler, Ashley, Anna, Maggie, Brooke and Noelle; and sister Ruth Suchecki. He was preceded in death by his brother Bill. The Scott family would like to give a special thank you for the loving care provided to Len by all the staff of Paul Oliver LTC and Heartland Hospice during his 3-year journey with Parkinsons. He was treated like family and for that, we are ever so grateful. A memorial service will be held at Faith Reformed Church, 1139 E. Front St., Traverse City, MI on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 11 a.m. The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service at 10 a.m. Military honors will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his honor may be made to Youth and Children’s Ministries at Faith Reformed Church or to Love Thy Neighbor.

Leonard Scott

October 9, 1933 - December 23, 2024