Obituary of Leonard Alexander Kernyo

Leonard Alexander Kernyo was born to the union of Alexander Kernyo and the former Mary Kuthy on July 16, 1938, in Detroit, Michigan. The only boy of three children, Leonard graduated from Airport High School in Carleton, Michigan in 1956.

Just two short years later, Leonard married the love of his life, Jean Sweeney in 1958. The couple was blessed with three children of their own. Leonard provided for his family by working as a maintenance technician for Detroit Edison. He demonstrated a strong commitment to serving his community as well, being a volunteer Firefighter for Exeter Township until 1996 when his role transitioned from active fireman to liaison.  He was also involved in historical preservation as a member of the Exeter Historical Society and held a seat on the Exeter Township board as a Trustee for many years.

Leonard was very active with The Boy Scouts of America for nearly twenty years. Not only was he a Cub Master and Troop Committee Member, his service as District Commissioner showcased his dedication to mentoring and guiding young people to develop valuable life skills. His commitment to the Scouting program was recognized by the BSA when he was honored with the Silver Beaver Award, a national recognition of service.

 Leonard was deeply connected to his faith; a member of St. Patrick Church, he regularly attended the church’s men’s club and was an active participant in events such as cooking the chicken each year for the parish festival.  He was a familiar face often calling BINGO for church gatherings.  His commitment showed just how much he valued building connections and contributing to the spiritual and social lives of those around him. This sense of community and belonging is one that Leonard cherished, and his example speaks to the quality of his character and legacy.

Leonard’s affinity for tool shopping was just a small indication of the pride he took in building objects with his own hands. Having contributed immensely to the building of his own home, Leonard developed a passion for woodworking. He enjoyed having a hobby that was fulfilling and was always looking for ways to improve his woodworking skills. Many times, that meant taking a trip to Harbor Freight for a new tool. Leonard had a love for the great outdoors and found camping to connect with nature. His experience with the Boy Scouts provided the opportunity for him to utilize some of the many skills that he helped teach to every troop.

Although Leonard held many different titles throughout his life, the ones that mattered and meant the most to him were those of husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Nothing compared to the dedication Leonard had for his own family.

Leonard Alexander Kernyo, age 84 of Carleton passed away at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital on Tuesday, April 11, 2023.  His passing was preceded by his parents: Alexander and Mary Kernyo and a sister: Elaine Gysin.

To cherish his memory, he leaves a loving wife of sixty-four years: Jean Kernyo; three children: Leonard “Butch” (Jennifer) Kernyo, Cindy (Rock) Roberts, and Kenneth (Tammy) Kernyo; nine grandchildren: Amanda (Tony) Elling, Ed (Emily) Roberts, Alexandria (Patrick) Harwood, Lindsay (Jake) Hoffman, Zachary Kernyo (Holly Long), Ryan (Brea) Kernyo, Kyle Kernyo (Summer Jackson), Karley (Daniel) Esper, and Kiara Flynn; nine great grandchildren; a sister: Lona Guy; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Friends may gather on Sunday, April 16, 2023, from 2:00pm until 8:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. Leonard will lie in state from 10:00am until a Mass of the Resurrection beginning at 11:00am at Divine Grace Parish; 2996 West Labo Road, Carleton, Michigan 48117. Procession will follow to Northside Cemetery in Maybee, Michigan for burial.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to ProMedica Hospice or Divine Grace Parish. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.