Leslie (Les) Renck

Leslie Henry (Les) Renck passed away November 27, 2007 at home in Overland Park, Kansas. Les was born in Long Beach, California on August 27, 1938 to Charles Henry and Patricia Leslie (Schulze) Renck.

In 1960, Les received a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering from Cal Poly, San Louis Obispo. He was then employed by Honeywell, Inc. in Gardena, California. In 1961, he was called up to serve in the United States Army and was stationed at the Yuma Proving Ground in Yuma, Arizona.

Les married Paula Catherine Isaacs in 1962. After his discharge from the Army the following year, they moved back to Southern California, where Les resumed his work with Honeywell. In 1969, Les went into business for himself, owning and operating Thermatrol, Inc. for three years. His daughter, Lisa, and son, Greg, were born during this period.

Les began working for Johns Manville Corp. in Willows, California as the plant engineer in 1973. He was employed by Johns Manville until his retirement in 1996. During these years, he worked in the Penbyrn facility in New Jersey as production manager, in the McPherson, Kansas plant as plant manager, and at the company headquarters in Denver, Colorado as Director of Manufacturing of the Building Insulation Division.

Les and Paula retired to Prescott, Arizona in 1997. During the past ten years he has been active in SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) as a counselor and as director. He served on the board of Yavapai Exceptional Industries, which provides job training, employment, volunteer placements, and support services for developmentally disabled adults in Yavapai County, Arizona.

In September of this year, Les and Paula moved to Overland Park, Kansas to be near their children and grandchildren.

Les is survived by Paula, his wife of 45 years, son Greg Renck of Lawrence, Kansas, daughter Lisa Renck Baldwin and her husband Jason and their children Silas and Sage of Olathe, Kansas, his mother Patricia Renck of Fullerton, California, and sisters Sharon Pearson of Ulysses, Kansas and Marcia Renck of Livermore, California.

Memorials can be made to:

American Cancer Society, P O Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718 www.cancer.org

Yavapai Exceptional Industries, 436 N Washington Ave., Prescott, AZ 86301 www.yeiworks.com

PKD Foundation (Polycystic Kidney Disease,) 9221 Ward Parkway, Suite 400, Kansas City, MO, 64114 www.pkdcure.org. (Les?s infant granddaughter Sage Catherine Baldwin, was born October 24, 2007 with a rare type of this genetic disorder.)

Visits: 1

Condolences

  1. Gene on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I am deeply saddened to learn about Les’s passing and I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family. I retired from the Penbryn Plant in New Jersey a few years ago. I always looked forward to visiting with Les whenever he was at the plant. During every visit, he always found the time to stop in and talk. We shared a similar sense of humor and we laughed about so many things. Les was a true gentleman, a caring person and a joy to be around; the kind of person that you truly enjoyed working for. He is truly missed.



  2. Roy Pogue on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula and Family,
    I was deeply saddened to hear of Les’s passing. I considered Les one of the finest gentlemen and most professional and knowledgeable people I have ever had the honor to be associated with in my lifetime, both at and away from work. I will always remember the afternoon in late July, 1977, when two graduate Mechanical Engineers with 15 years of industrial experience, couldn’t seem to come to grips with the assembly and installation of a roof rack for a car….Paula knows the story!
    My sincerest sympathy.



  3. Shawn and Owen Fowler on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula, Greg, Lisa, Jason, Silas, & Sage – I am so sad that you’ve lost your treasured husband, dad, father-in-law, and grandpa. We all grieve along with you. You’ve all been in my prayers and thoughts; I have sent a special prayer to Aunt Dorothy to welcome Les. (It makes me laugh to think of their meeting!)

    I will always think of Les as a very happy and proud father on Lisa & Jason’s wedding day, and as a kind & caring man who had the best sense of humor I’ve ever seen when surprised in a parking lot!

    It is so wonderful to read all of these comments and to learn so much about Les. Thank you for sharing this with us.

    Silas and Sage – your grandpa will always be there, watching over you.
    Love, Aunt Shawny



  4. Jerrell and Gloria Croskrey on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Coming from great parents he was destined to be a great person himself. We grew up as neighbors and did a little stamp trading and BB gun shooting. He was the tall handsome High School guy and I was the short neighbor about five years behind him. My regret after reading all these wonderful comments is that I didn’t know him better as an adult. Thanks Sharon and Marcia for sharing your brother. My mom cried for “the little boy next door”.



  5. Dayle Blackwell on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Uncle Les was the best uncle a girl could ever ask for! He was always super nice & loving… never showed irritation with me as a child, in fact he would take me outside to play when I was irritating the other adults at our family reunions! 😉 You impacted so many people throughout your life in a positive way – you will always be remembered and admired. Say hello to Grandpa Renck and start a game a Shanghai and we’ll all be up to join someday! I love you always!



  6. Ron Konar on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Les was a very good business associate of mine who made each meeting with him feel as though we were long lost buddies that had known each other for since childhood. He will be missed by all.



  7. Paul Mascuch on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula,

    Bob Haegi told me about the loss of Les. I was so sorry to hear this news. While I didn’t work closely with Les, I enjoyed the times we did work together. He was a straight shooter and a real gentleman. He was respected within Johns Manville by all that knew him.

    My thoughts are with you and your family during this most difficult time. You all have my deepest sympathy.

    Paul Mascuch



  8. Gregg and Judy Stockstill on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    We are so sorry to hear of Les’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Paula and the family. Our memories of Les are of a gentle but stong leader who spoke through his actions. He always had time for others and had a great ability to connect with others. Recently he was in McPherson and visited the plant. Current and retired employees enjoyed visiting with Les. We all enjoyed the time spent together, telling stories about the good old days. Les appeared to have enjoyed the visit as did we. It left us with warm memories of our times together.



  9. Dick and Marylynn Teeter on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    We are so sorry to hear that Les had passed away. He was always such a friendly person and we really enjoyed the few times we had with you both. It seems that there are times when everyone is so busy with everyday life that friendships that should have grown, end up in the “what might have been” file. Such is the case here. May strength and peace be with you during these difficult times and the times ahead.



  10. Larry Leavitt on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I wish to extend my heart felt sorrow during this time of loss. I had the fortune to work with Les in his brief time at the Innisfail Plant here in Canada. He was a great leader and stood behind those who deserved it. He will be greatly missed. Please accept my prayers Paula for you and your family.



  11. Lynne Torrez and Family on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Dear Aunt Paula, Greg, Lisa & Jason
    There’s so much to say about Uncle Les. It’s hard to condense it down into just a few words. I as a child have many fond memories of time spent with you all. Now as an adult my family and I truly loved and respected our Uncle. He was a good, solid father and husband who provided you with stability and love. What a gift. We’re so sorry for this season of sorrow that we are all going through right now. 🙁 We love you dearly and hold you in our hearts always. Give those little ones a kiss for us. Love, Lynnie



  12. David and Lynne Torrez on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Dear Aunt Paula, Greg, Lisa & Jason
    There’s so much to say about Uncle Les. It’s hard to condense it down into just a few words. I as a child have many fond memories of time spent with you all. Now as an adult my family and I truly loved and respected our Uncle. He was a good, solid father and husband who provided you with stability and love. What a gift. We’re so sorry for this season of sorrow that we are all going through right now. 🙁 We love you dearly and hold you in our hearts always. Give those little one a kiss for us. Love, Lynnie



  13. Neil and Marcia Denton on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula, we were stunned and saddened to learn of Les’s death. How wonderful to be near your children when he passed. Our thoughts are surely with you. Love, Marcia and Neil



  14. John Gebert on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Dear Paula and Family:
    Nancy and I were very saddened when we heard of Les’ passing, and we send our best to you and your family. Over our JM careers our paths crossed many times…as peers and as a subordinate to Les…and I will miss him terribly. His good-natured way of building relationships and trust within our organizations was something I learned much from and will always cherish. He was a dear friend and we will miss him.

    John & Nancy Gebert



  15. Paul and Karren Pentony on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Dear Paula and family,
    My husband and I have known your family for over 40 years through Les’s sister, Marcia. We think of him as a wonderful man who loved his wife and exended family and was very generous in hospitality and friendship. He was a man of great principle and it seems many were the recipients of his fine attributes.
    Thank you for your kindness to us during our family reunion in Prescott and for fun times at gatherings with your family.
    You will continue to be in our prayers.



  16. Karl Matz on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I was saddened by the news of Les’ passing. He was , in my opinion, the best plant manager McPherson JM has ever had. He was a man of integrity whose word was as good as gold. He always had time for everyone and made the effort to get out and get to know the employees on a personal level. One followed him because he made you believe. He was definitely one in a million!!



  17. Pat Traster on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I didn’t get to meet Les, but I know what a marvelous person he was because of the extraordinary way Paula and he supported mother Pat, sisters Marcia and Sharon, and Sharon’s kids with much time and many talents. Reading the other tributes makes me realize what I missed in not knowing this great person.



  18. John Clarke on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula and Family,
    I will always remember Les for the strength of his convictions, his understanding and compassion for his employees, and his great laugh when something caught his fancy. During the many years we worked together at Manville, he as a fellow manager and later as my boss, he was always there as a friend willing to pitch in and help. I celebrate his life and will always remember him with great respect.
    Elizabeth and I both want you to know you are in our thoughts and prayers.



  19. Chris on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Les was a great guy. I used to run into him hiking on a nearby trail and stand and talk for a long time. Interesting man…too soon gone. Good luck Paula…please call us when you are back in Prescott…Chris



  20. Don Shisler on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Dear Paula and Family

    I worked with Les in his many capacities and while in his and my retirement we were apart, he remains in my memories. Les was always very supportive to his people and technically very capable. Those were good times for a working family. Les will be missed by all.

    Don



  21. Margie Carrasco on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula – Please know that you and your family are in my prayers and thoughts. Les was the finest gentleman I have ever known. He gave me a job when I really, really needed one. But it did not end there – for I also found a friend, a mentor, and a genuine human being. That is the legacy he left and I strive to continue his legacy in all that I do whether in my business or personal life. I had the privilege of walking beside him in this lifetime. I will miss him.



  22. Bill and Nancy Sonsin on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Dear Paula and family,
    I first met Les when I joined SCORE here in Prescott. I was the “rookie” and he was my guide and mentor into the organization. He was one of the nicest, most genuine and caring people – never too busy to help or to be a friend. We enjoyed becoming friends with both of you in the years that followed. We recently heard that he had been battling cancer but thought that he was on the road to recovery. We are very sorry to hear of his passing.



  23. Kurt Bratton on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Les was an great leader. A geniune and honest person who made those around him better.



  24. Edee Boyer on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula: I was so sorry to hear that Les had passed away. I know you have lots of happy memories and hope they will be a comfort to you in the days ahead.



  25. Shane and Jennifer Baldwin on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    We enjoyed our times with Les, especially the nights at Williamsburg with the family. He raised a wonderful daughter whom we love as part of our family. What a neat tribute to a great man who obviously touched many lives. May God grant you peace.



  26. Cledean Jones on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Lisa and Jason,
    I am so sorry to hear about your dad! Losing my mother just last yea, I know how hard this time is. Have comfort that his pain is over and he is in a better place. Your children now have a special Angel watching over them every minute of the day. Please know I am thinking of you all.
    Cledean (michelle’s sister)



  27. Michelle Leeper, Fred and Emily on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    You all are in our thoughts and prayers. Les will be remembered as a wonderful and special person. We enjoyed the times we all spent together and will hold those memories with us always.
    Michelle, Fred and Emily



  28. Roger and Terry Stahl on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Dear Paula; Terry and I are very sad to hear of your loss and send our deepest condolences to you Paula, Gregg, and Lisa and family. Les was a great guy and a great friend. I worked for Les both at McPherson as well as a Plant Manager at Richmond and Penbryn. Besides all of the wonderful things that were great about Les, he was also a great guy to work for. He was a very supportive leader that had –as he said many times- a tool chest that he would pull from to help and mentor. Everyone in the plant looked forward to his visits. Of most importance was that Les was interested in all that was going on. Everyone could feel this and commented. Les was always leaning as well. He would bring with him the ideas that he learned about from other plants and of most importance the name of the person to talk to about the ideas. It made managing a plant and its relationship with JM as whole so much more positive. Les was a trusted friend that you could talk to about most anything. He truly cared. Of most importance to me was that he would also talk to me as a friend. Even after retirement it was great to talk to him about travel that he and Paula so greatly enjoyed or JM or turning 65 or whatever. I will greatly miss my friend. Paula you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.



  29. Randy and Kathy Burnison on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Dear Paula and family,
    Kathy and I were deeply saddened to hear of Les’s passing. Les was very special to me. His guidance, counsel, and support were always deeply appreciated. I continue to recall many of our talks and continue using his advice as a reference point today. I remember that many of these conversations occured while you were reading in the car waiting on him to finish a conversation with me or someone else in McPherson. Kathy and I will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. We will always remember Les as a friend who cared, believed, and fought for what he thought was right. And he did it with that great smile.
    Randy and Kathy Burnison



  30. Elena Musgraves on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Dear Paula, Lisa and Greg

    I am deeply sorry for your loss. Les was a great man and I admired him for so many reasons. He was well-rounded from highly accomplished to world traveler to devoted husband and father.

    He was a friendly and easy-going person and I am honored to have known him.

    Paula ? you and Les ?lived life right? and to it?s full potential. I know these days are difficult for you and I am sorry. May you find peace and comfort in your memories and the love of your family.

    Sincerely,

    Elena



  31. Jack and Bonnie Giroux on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I was sorry to learn that Les passed away. I will always remember him as a person who commanded respect of everyone he came in contact with. He became an integral part of the team that was responsible for the start of the Willows plant. I will always remember him as a good friend. Paula, Greg and Lisa are in our prayers.

    Jack



  32. Andrew and Laura Canterbury on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula, Greg, Lisa and Jason,
    Laura and I have each of you in our thoughts. Les was a wonderful, strong, and caring person. I truly admired him, and am so grateful for all the Ireland adventure memories I have of him.
    Warmest Regards,
    Andrew



  33. Kathie and Howard Rieder on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula and family, We were so saddened to hear of Les’ passing. Paula, you were both so helpful to us in sharing your experiences in the Baltic States and Russia and helping make our adventure there so worthwhile. We always envied your travel experiences.
    You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

    Kathie & Howard Rieder



  34. Kathie on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula and family, We were so saddened to hear of Les’ passing. Paula, you were both so helpful to us in sharing your experiences in the Baltic States and Russia and helping make our adventure there so worthwhile. We always envied your travel experiences.
    You are all in our thoughts and prayers.



  35. Brenda Bowers on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I am one of the lucky ones who worked for Les. He was a great Plant Manager. Not only was he wise and a capable leader but he was personable and treated people fairly. He was such a likeable person and I’m sure he’ll be missed greatly.
    With sincere sympathy, Brenda



  36. William Snesrud on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    During a very difficult time period in my personal life I worked for JM in McPherson.
    Les Renck along with Roger Stahl were two of the finest men I can say I ever had the chance to be associated with. They were genuinly concerned with all their workers on personal levels, something that is rare anymore.
    Les Renck was the kind of leader, mentor and boss you can say yes I worked for him with joy, appreciation and rich in memories.
    Les will be missed by many, remembered fondly by many more, and at peace until we meet again.
    May the good Lord bless his family through this time of loss.



  37. Mark Messenger on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I’m very sorry for your loss, my condolences to Greg, Paula, Lisa and your family.



  38. Jo Teague on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Jo and I have many fond memories of Les. He was a very special person. He was our friend and we will miss him. We last visited him about two weeks ago and will forever remember his warmth and dignity during our last time with him. We send our condolences to Paula, Lisa, Jason, Silas, Sage and Greg.



  39. Greg Reineke on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I knew Les for many years while I worked at Johns Manville in Denver & Defiance, OH.. He had all my respect during the time we shared.



  40. Dave and Donna Schulze on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Donna and I were very sad to hear of Les’s passing. Eventhough it was inevitable, and perhaps a blessing, it is a great loss to all of his family members. Les was a proud individual, and I am sure he didn’t like the position in which he found himself.

    Les was the oldest of all the Leslie and Henry Schulze grandchildren and at family occasions growing up, I remember that it was Les to whom we all looked up, for answers and approval.

    The last time we saw Les was at our daughter Leslie’s wedding in Malibu, August 8, 1999. He and Paula not only came out for it, but made it possible for Aunt Pat, Marcia and Sharon to attend. That’s the kind of person he was, we were very appreciative of the effort taken.

    May God bless Les and his family. We are all better because of him.



  41. Chuck and Tami Singleton on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Our hearts and prayers go out to the family,
    Tami and I both worked at the McPherson JM plant during Les’ tenure there. I appriciated the fact Les took time to acquaint himself with all the employees. Les teased me once about a speeding ticket I received. I told him I was ticketed for speeding on my way to work. He found that quite amusing. Les was a tremendous leader and I find today as I manage my own small business refering to lessons learned from Les and his management of the McPherson plant. A wonderful leader that set a high standard for all those working around him. He will be missed by all that knew him.



  42. Cindy Niemeyer on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Les was the plant manager when I was hired at the JM McPherson plant. Every morning he walked through and spoke to everyone. He was a great leader and was respected by everyone. He will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.



  43. George Hannes on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Jean and I sorry to hear about Les.



  44. Dave Armstrong on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Lisa and Jason,
    When friends are hurting you just wish something could make it all better. Know that you are in my thoughts, my prayers and our prayers at Avila. You and your children must have been a great source of pride for Les to move from the beautiful warm climate. How wonderful for you.
    Peace,
    Dave



  45. Fred Held on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I will always remember Les for his efforts to make all of his employees better off and his efforts to take time to visit with each individuual under him.



  46. Jim Albers on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula and family,

    We so enjoyed Les’s natural calm and goodnatured ways. One of the good guys in spite of his career accomplishments. We’ll miss him dearly. You and your ’kids’ will carry on and being so close to each other will be a comfort and incentive to live well in his behalf.

    God Bless, cousin,

    Jim

    (Lolly sends her warm well wishes, too).



  47. Shirley Baskin on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I remember Les as a very generous person who provided the Intro to Business class I was teaching at Yavapai College with some real-life business information related to the topic they were studying. It was a pleasure to be acquainted with such smart man who was willing to share his knowledge with young people.
    Our sympathy to Paula. Shirley and Paul Baskin, Prescott



  48. Gavin Bates on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I spent many years as a fellow Plant Manager (Innisfail, Canada) and subsequently as Sales Manager when Les had responsibility for all plants. I will always have the utmost respect for Les as being a genuine, honest, fair person with an acute sense of business and people. One tends to lose track of time and associates when you no longer see each other, but I will always remember Les and be proud to also have considered him to be my friend. I send heart felt sympathy to his family.



  49. Jean Stump on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Les was a wonderful man and I was blessed to know him these past few years. I know he will live on in the hearts of many. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.



  50. Art and Lynne Richards on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Lynne and I both worked at McPherson when Les arrived as Plant Manager. As a young Project Engineer I still remember the sight of Les prowling the hall way – that look demanded respect! I quickly learned what a great leader and caring human being he was. What a contagious laugh! He was a pivotal leader at McPherson and changed its course from autocratic leadership to an involvement based leadership; that?s a big part of why McPherson has arguably been the flagship of the JM fleet. Lynne was very pregnant with our first son, which worried Les to no end. He was afraid she might give birth on the factory floor! He couldn?t take the stress anymore and encouraged her to take maternity leave early. Our first son was born early the very next week! Les was always there for you. So many times he dropped whatever he was doing to lend an ear and a word of advice. We will miss him.



  51. Kim Peterson on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I was saddened to read of Les’ passing. I worked with Les at the JM McPherson plant, and he was respected by all who knew and worked with him. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.



  52. Gary, Kim, Brock, and Brant Horning on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Lisa,
    We did not know your father, but we are praying for your family and sharing your sadness of losing someone so important in your life. We will continue to think of you and your family and keep you in our prayers.
    Gary, Kim, Brock, and Brant



  53. Ryan Hubele on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I’ll never forget Les as my first plant manager at McPherson and how he would make his walks through the production floor and always had a smile, wave or the time to stop and see how things were going. a great leader, person, and example for all. thoughts and prayers are with the family.



  54. Jeff and Lauri Schulze on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Les was always one of my favorite cousins.A great mentor and a lot of fun at all of the family get-togethers. We will miss his humor and kindness.



  55. Christina Young (Moege) on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Dear Lisa and Family –
    I am so sad to hear about your father’s passing. I was blessed to share a part of my life with your wonderful family and will never forget the strength of character that your father possessed. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.



  56. Jeani Cranford on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I did not know Les, but I’ve known Lisa for 10 years. He must have been a wonderful man to have raised such an amazing daughter. My prayers and love are with each of you.
    Jeani



  57. George Guise on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula,
    Joan and I are saddened by your lose of Les. He could light up the room with his enthusiasm, and was a true leader, he made everyone feel important. I remember those mini get togethers, when we relaxed and joked around, Les’ competitive nature always came out in the nickel-dime poker games. Les, I?m truly sorry we did not get a chance to say good-bye. Joan and I will always cherish our friendship and your ear to ear smile when you were being just a little bit devious. Good-bye my friend, I will always remember you with great pleasure.
    Joan & George



  58. Norma Sattlethight on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula…I’m so sorry to hear that Les was taken from you so soon. He had told me that his cancer had come back, and that he was resuming the chemo.

    The neighbors have told me what he was going through, but it is still a shock to hear that his struggle has ended.

    Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you now….Norma



  59. Mary Caldwell on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Dear Paula and family,
    I’m so sorry to hear of Les’s passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
    Sincerely,
    Mary Caldwell



  60. Dick and Kathy Troyer on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Our children are now older than we were when we worked together in Willows, what great memories! Dick says Les was the only person he knew who “succeeded” in spite of a strong dislike for neck ties.
    We so enjoyed visiting and reminiscing with you in January.

    You are truly wonderful people and we have been blessed to know you both. We’ll continue our prayers for your family.
    Kathy



  61. Dick Wardell on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss.I served with Les on the YEI Board of Directors, and really enjoyed my time with him.
    Having lost my wife of 56 years,this past June, I know what you are going thru.
    Again my Condolences.
    Dick Wardell



  62. Larry Baumgartner on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Les was a great role model and mentor earlier in my career, and was personally involved in my career advancement. He touched many lives, both professional and personal, in a much more significant way than he realized or would ever take credit for. A true professional and friend who will be truly missed.



  63. Bob Haegi on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I worked for Les on two occasions as plant manager at JM’s Richmond and then Winder plants. In addition to being well respected by all within the organization, Les was a great mentor. I will always cherish the frienship we had during those times and the many great conversations we had since.

    When I first went to Richmond in 1990, Les joined my wife and then three small children for lunch. To this day, they still remember the tall friendly man with the big bushy mustache who ate and talked with them at the Bob Evans restaurant.

    We will miss you.



  64. Mickey Reinhart on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Deepest sympathy offered to Paula and family. Les was a great man and will be missed by all



  65. George and Jackie Walters and The Coldwell Banker Office, Prescott Az. on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    We and our office want to express our heartfelt sympathy for your loss.
    Sincerely,
    George & Jackie Walters



  66. Alicia and Randy Murillo on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Our thoughts and prayers are with your family in your time of loss.



  67. Chris and Leslie Hoy on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Dear Paula,

    We were so sad to learn today that we’ve lost Les. We will always think of you both when we walk past your house in Prescott and into the forest, where we enjoyed so many friendly conversations. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.



  68. Chris Duff on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I worked for Les directly for several years in the latter part of my career during my stint as Plant manager at Innisfail Plant in Canada. Les was well respected by myself and all others who worked for him. He was hard working, honest, empathetic while at the same time demanding your best. His knowledge and ability resulted in advice and direction that really helped me. He was always upbeat even as he guided us through “interesting times” but when the mustache started twitching you knew you were wrong! I’m surely much better for having known Les.



  69. Lynne Butler Dagg on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I knew Les as the wonderful brother of my friend, Marcia. He always had a twinkle in his eye and was a genuine, good person.



  70. Kate, Mike, Nate and Birch Cline on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Lisa and family – We are saddened to hear of your dad’s passing. May your many fond memories help make these difficult times bearable. You’re in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Kate, Mike, Nate & Birch



  71. Jennifer Buck on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Les was my cousin and one of the nicest people I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. I’ve always admired his kindness and generosity to those around him. I’m so glad he had so many nice years with Paula and that they were able to take all the wonderful trips they enjoyed so much. Love to all the family.



  72. Regina Moorehead on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Lisa, it is tough losing a parent, but be sure that God will take care of you and your family in this time of need. My thoughts and prayers are with you.



  73. Debbie Thornton on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Jason Lisa & Family,
    Bob & I send our deepest sympathy to all of you. Even though time will help, you will always feel a little empty from loosing a parent. Please know that we are here for you.
    Bob & Debbie Thornton



  74. LaPlante Family on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Lisa and family,
    These past few weeks God has introduced you to the true circle of life with the birth of beautiful Sage and the passing of your father. Please take comfort that your father is always a part of you and that even though you have lost his physical body, you all have gained a Guardian Angel that will be with you now and for ever. Take care and cherish the memories and moments. Warmest regards – Laura LaPlante and family.



  75. Norm Zettel on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Great Guy, Great Leader, Great Provider who knew insulation. He lived life well. We’ll miss him.



  76. Steve on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Les was our cousin but we got to know him and Paula best in recent years starting with our New Zealand camping trip in 2001; then to Mexico in 2003 and to Tibet and Western China for a month in 2006. His quick wit, humor and adventurous spirit inspired us to travel into strange places with him, which enriched our lives. We are happy that he and Paula got to travel over almost the whole world, which Les loved. We will miss the Australian camping trip he planned.
    We love you very much, Les. We have wonderful memories of you to treasure forever.



  77. Carol Frevert on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Jason and Lisa (Silas and Sage)
    Paula and Greg,

    My thoughts and prayers have been with you during the most difficult past few weeks. Although I did not personally know Les, I felt like I knew him through Jason and Lisa. The family circle of love that you share was so real as they spoke of your family.
    As a breast cancer survivor of a few years, Jason shared with me of Les’ fight with prostate cancer and the return of that cancer. I know you are all proud of the strong and determined fight he fought.
    May God’s strength, comfort, and love be with you and may His peace enfold you.
    In friendship and sympathy,
    Carol



  78. Ed and Barb Domanick on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula,
    Barb and I are so sorry to hear about Les’s passing. I always enjoyed working with him on the manufacturing side of the business. Our prayers are with you and your family.



  79. Paul White on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Les was one of the finest people I have ever known. It was indeed a pleasure to work for him at McPherson.



  80. Ed and Barb Domanick on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula,

    Barb and I are so sorry to hear about Les’s passing. I always enjoyed working with him on the manufacturing side of the business. Our prayers are with Paula and your family.



  81. Dianne White Crawford on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I’ve known Les since I was in high school. Walking to school every day with his sister, Sharon. I use to think of him as the neatest guy because he had so many record albums. He was such a pilar of strength and guidance to his sister. I always wanted to have a brother just like him. I’ve loved seeing him over the years and he always made me feel like he remembered me. He will be missed but heaven has an amazing angel up there.



  82. Michelle, Gregg and Maddox Clary on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Lisa & family our thoughts and prayers have been with you for many months. We will continue to keep you close to our hearts. Love, Michelle, Gregg & Maddox Clary



  83. Sylvia Starr Richey on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula and family,
    I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
    Sylvia – class of 1958



  84. Barbara Martin on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Lisa and family,
    Know my prayers and thoughts are with you all in this trying time. It sounds like Les was a great man.



  85. Diane Cox on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I am a friend of Lisa Baldwin. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
    With deepest sympathy,
    Diane Cox



  86. Pam Morrell on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Dear Paula, Lisa and Greg,
    I’m so sorry for your loss. You were my favorite family to babysit and I know that my dad had great respect for Les. You are all in my thoughts.
    ~Pam



  87. Donna Schulze on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Paula,Lisa, Greg and your families, I’m so sorry for your loss.

    My favorite memories of Les are his wicked, but subtle sense of humor, I think he inherited that from Uncle Charlie, his thoughtful kindness toward others, and his love of adventure with Paula. What a wonderful life!

    Love to all the Renck family members, today and always. May you find peace, knowing he has.

    Donna Schulze



  88. MARY E. FREEMAN on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    DEAR LISA AND JASON-MAY GOD COMFORT YOU THROUGH THIS DIFFICULT TIME OF YOUR DAD’S PASSING. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL. LOVE CALVIN AND MARY FREEMAN



  89. Ian Stuart on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I had the privilege of working a couple of layers under Les’ direction for many years and directly during his stay in Innisfail. I very quickly developed tremendous respect for his ability to listen very carefully, thoughtfully process information, and then act decisively. Les respected all people and set a great example by his work ethic, personal standards, and genuine empathy for differing points of view. I am very sorry that he was not able to enjoy the much longer retirement he deserved. I will always remember him as a man truly worthy of respect and an example worthy of emulation

    Sincerely,

    Ian Stuart
    Innisfail, Alberta, Canada



  90. Tom Campion on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I got to know Les when he was a Prod. Supt. at the JM Penbryn Plant. I was a newly promoted PD Manager and remember all the great counsel he gave me. We spent many hours after work talking. He will be missed by many.



  91. Jim and Marsha Morrell on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Les was one of the greatest, most capable persons I was ever fortunate enough to hire and to work with. He will truly be missed by those whom he has touched over the years, and, especially me. May God watch over his beautiful wife, Paula, as well as Lisa and Greg and their families.



  92. Al Bartlett on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Deepest sympathy offered to Paula and family.



  93. Foster Harding on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Dear Les, I know you’ll “get” this message even though you’re officially resting just now. Thanks for all you did for me during my career at JM, especially during the transition period after Corp. Engineering evaporated. You have blessed many — that won’t stop! Love to Paula and your family. Foster Harding



  94. Anita Kline on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I will truely miss Les’ wit and humor. He visited JM – Willows on many occasions and was a joy to be around.

    Please accept my sincerests condolences.

    Anita Kline, JM Purchasing-Willows, CA. Plant



  95. Donald B. Scholten on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I have known Les since 1952 and count him among my best friends. The memories I cherish are many, from beach parties at “1000 Steps” to snow parties at Lake Arrowhead, to poker parties and other gatherings of the “Olympians.” In recent years we have visited each other in our homes, reminiscing the great times we shared. A light has dimmed, and I will really miss him. Love, Don Scholten



  96. Jim West on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Les was a great guy to work for. I had the upmost respect for him. He gave me valuable guidance as a young Production Manager early in my career.



  97. David Little on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Les was a great leader at JM and I appreciated his coaching and mentoring. My thoughts and pryers are with the family



  98. Frank on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    I will miss Les. He was a large influence on me as a employee at JM during my early career. More than being a hard, intellegent worker, I admired most for his kindness and being an overall nice man. I still have his buisness card in my wallet and wish I had taken the time to just call and say “Thanks”. You have touched my life.



  99. Lois Gallardo on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    Les was my big cousin. He was smart and compassionate. He took care of those around him. He will be missed by so many. What a legacy he has left. I love you Les.



  100. ronald stone on January 1, 1900 at 12:00 am

    he was a good friend, and I enjoyed many happy occasions with him over the years. I am pleased that I got to visit him this past May. God bless you, Les.



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