Leonard R. Sticha, 89

Leonard R. Sticha, age 89, of New Prague, entered eternal life surrounded by his family on Sunday, March 28, 2021 at Praha Village.  Leonard was born the youngest of 8 children on February 25, 1932 at the family farmstead in Cedar Lake Township to Joseph A. and Elizabeth (Simek) Sticha.  He attended country district school.  Leonard married the love of his life, Rose Ann Horejsi, on October 9, 1954 at Most Holy Trinity Church in Veseli.  The couple farmed until Rosie’s death from cancer in 1998.  After retiring from farming, Leonard found employment in mowing lawn at Lone Pine Golf Course, a job which he thoroughly enjoyed for many years.  Leonard was no stranger to tragedy; his son Randy’s untimely death in a farming accident and his wife’s death so young, made his already compassionate heart a natural for the work that led to his employment with Bruzek Funeral Home for about 20 years.  Leonard’s affable personality and love of people made him an icon of the community; he could strike up a conversation with anyone and loved nothing more than a good joke or prank.  He loved animals and children and was noted to always carry candy in his pocket.  His very best friend for the last 12 years of his life, was his faithful dog, Max.  Leonard also had a very dedicated following in the many gigs he played for about 30 years with Lenny’s Concertina Band; after the band disbanded, Leonard continued to play at St. Patrick Church Festival, until his health made it impossible.  The highlights of Leonard’s life were his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the foster children who came into his life; he always noted their activities and accomplishments and loved them without conditions!  The twinkle in his eye, his ready wit, and his kindness and compassion will be missed by so very many, including the caregivers and friends at Praha Village, his home for the last year.

Leonard is survived by his children, Corrine “Connie” (Steve) Schoenbauer of New Prague, Linda (Dr. Steve) Kreuser of Jordan, Dr. Thomas (Susan) Sticha of Prior Lake, Cheryl (Mark) Rezac of New Prague; daughter-in-law, Cathy (Jim) Beuch of Jordan; sister-in-law, Jeanette Sticha of Lonsdale; 19 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by his wife, Rose Ann on July 25, 1998; son, Randy Sticha; grandchildren, Erin & Ben Kreuser and Joseph & Ty Schoenbauer; parents; brothers, Frank J., Joseph F., Stanley G., and Bohumil; sisters, Julia Malecha, Mary Horejsi, Sophie Horejsi.

 Private family Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, March 31, 2021 at St. Patrick Catholic Church of Cedar Lake.  Burial will take place at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery.  Memorials preferred in lieu of flowers.  bruzekfuneralhome.com