Leonard J. Korbel, 67
Leonard J. Korbel, age 67, of New Prague, died peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, August 22, 2021 at Mayo Clinic Health System Hospital – Rochester. Leonard was born on April 1, 1954 in New Prague to Milo and Angela (Mayerhofer) Korbel. He attended St. Wenceslaus Parochial School and graduated from New Prague High School. Leonard married the love of his life, Roxanne G. Kohout on July 3, 1976 in New Prague. He was a self-made man, attaining much of his knowledge through the “school of hard knocks” and owned and operated his very successful business, Transport Designs, Inc., retiring in March of 2020. The couple made their home in New Prague for the majority of their lives, other than a couple of years in North Carolina from 2012-13 and 2020-21.
Leonard lived his life with focus and determination. He fought cancer in the same way, always positive with his eye on the “cure” and always with the attitude that there was someone worse off than him. He beat the odds more than once, having had two bone marrow transplants and a double lung transplant. His attitude was infectious and an inspiration to many.
Leonard loved anything that had to do with the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, particularly walleye fishing. He enjoyed travel, especially the vacations that included his family. He was always eager for a good game of cards, especially euchre, and a mean game of corn-hole. His grandchildren lit up his life and he never missed the opportunity to attend their activities. Leonard’s jokes and pranks were legendary even if, perhaps, sometimes in the “groaner” category!
Leonard is survived by his wife, Roxanne, of New Prague; daughters, Sommer (Christopher) Yarolimek and Ashley Korbel, both of New Prague; grandchildren, Lohla & Lydia; mother, Angela Korbel of New Prague; siblings, Connie Kiser, Wayne Korbel, Edward (Carolyn) Korbel, Darrell Korbel, Delores (Juan) Alejandre, Linda Salinas, Milton (Mopsy) Korbel, Melvin (Linda) Korbel, Marvin (Eileen) Korbel, Arnie (Lisa) Korbel, Margie Korbel. He is preceded in death by his father; brothers, Glenn & Daniel.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 25, 2021 from 12:00 - 3:00 pm at Cedar Lake Farm Regional Park (25875 Juniper Ave, New Prague, MN 56071). Lunch will be provided.
The family wishes to thank those who helped Leonard on his medical journey: Dr. Philip McGlave with the University of Minnesota, Dr. Jamie Todd and her transplant team at Duke University, and the oncology staff at Mayo Clinic in Rochester.
Category:
Publication:
