Obituary of Kenneth A. Lehmann

Kenneth “Ken” August Lehmann was born on March 13, 1929, in Toledo, Ohio. He was the only son and one of three children born from the union of Kenneth and Julia (Pollauf) Lehmann. He served his country in the United States Army during World War II.

Ken met the love of his life, the former Dorothy Grasmeyer, and they were joined in marriage, embarking on a beautiful journey together on April 9, 1949. Their union was blessed with the arrival of two wonderful daughters, who brought immeasurable joy into their lives. To provide for his family, he gained employment with Ohio Bell and remained in this capacity for over thirty-four years.  

In his younger years, he enjoyed taking many trips to his cabin in Alpena, Michigan with friends to deer hunt. Often, his grandson, Daniel, would accompany him to hunt and fish. He was a staple at his grandchildren’s sporting events. He assisted his wife, Dorothy with setting up the Erie Apple Orchard Festival.  

Ken was a selfless and compassionate individual, whose love language was serving others. He dedicated much of his time to helping those in need and was actively involved with the Knights of Columbus in Erie, particularly with their Tootsie Roll drives, bread runs, food closet, and BINGO nights. Additionally, he was a valued member of the Morin Pointe Fire Department for eleven years, further displaying his commitment to the safety and well-being of others. He was fourth degree member with the Knight of Columbus, Erie as well as a Member of the American Legion.

When not engaged in community service, Ken could often be seen tending to his yard. Whether it was mowing the grass or other yard work, he took great pride in keeping his surroundings meticulous. Ken had a tendency to keep those around him on their toes.  His family fondly remembers comical moments when they frantically searched for him, only to find him running errands to the bank or the post office on his lawnmower.

Kenneth “Ken” A. Lehmann, age 94, of Erie, passed away at 3:25pm on Saturday; October 14, 2023, while under the care of Ebeid Hospice in Sylvania surrounded by his loving family.  His passing was preceded by his parents; his wife of sixty-nine and a half years: Dorothy; and two sisters: Virginia Werner and Carol Sybert.

To cherish his memory, he leaves two daughters: Tina (Ed) Roderick and Cheryl Garcia; three grandchildren: Julia (Jeff) Harris, Daniel (Jayme) Garcia, and Veronica (Lucas) Adams; three great grandchildren: Joshua, Jacob, and Hayden.

Friends may gather on Monday; October 23, 2023, from 2:00pm until 8:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, Erie; 9156 Summit Street, Erie, Michigan 48133 (734) 317-7199. There will be 5:00pm Honor Guard services and a 7:00pm Rosary service on Monday also at Merkle’s. Ken will lie in state on Tuesday; October 24, 2023, from 10:00am until 11:00am at St. Joseph Catholic Church; 2214 Manhattan Street, Erie, Michigan 48133. The Mass of the Resurrection will take place at 11:00am.  Cremation will follow through the on-site crematory, Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan.

Family would like to express a special thanks to Promedica Hospice of Monroe and to Marilyn and Carol who cared for him during the day.

Online guests may visit www.merklefs.com to leave words of inspiration and comfort or to share a photo.