Leonard George Kistuline's Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Leonard George Kistuline, who departed this life on July 19, 2025 at the age of 87. He was surrounded by his loving family in Algonac, Michigan.
Born on May 29, 1938, in Pennsylvania, to Catherine Kistuline, Leonard's early life was marked by unique challenges. Orphaned at a young age due to the unexpected passing of his mother, he was raised by a step-aunt. Despite a childhood unlike many, his journey led him to Detroit, Michigan, after his dedicated service in the Navy. It was there that he found the love of his life, Virginia (Safronenko) Kistuline, married on October 21st, 1961 and who preceded him in death on December 11th, 2020. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising their four cherished children: Leonard V. (Sherry) Kistuline, Darrin (Robin) Kistuline, Diane (Mark) Nelson, and Louis (Ann) Kistuline.
Leonard dedicated the majority of his career to Ford Motor Company, from which he proudly retired after 34 years. Never one to stay idle, he embraced a security role at the Algonac Harbor Club in his retirement, a fitting choice for a man who held a lifelong passion for both cars and boats.
For much of his life, Leonard believed he was an only child, yet he carried a deep longing for extended family. Thanks to the power of Ancestry.com, his lifelong questions were finally answered when he connected with his half-sister, Lorrie DeVaney. They shared a father, Angelus George Nagle, and remarkably, Lorrie also longed for a sibling, having none of her own. On September 22, 2018, a truly special day, Leonard and Lorrie met for the very first time. This heartwarming reunion was made possible by his eldest granddaughter, Cheryl Brockdorff, and a distant cousin, Mary Branham, who skillfully brought them together. Their connection, born from a lifetime of curiosity and unanswered questions, became an immediate and deeply cherished bond.
Leonard leaves behind a rich legacy of love and family. He is survived by his beloved sister,
Lorrie (Dick) DeVaney, devoted children: Leonard V. (Sherry) Kistuline, Darrin (Robin) Kistuline, Diane (Mark) Nelson, and Louis (Ann) Kistuline. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: David (Natalie) Alexander, Donald Alexander, Brittaney (Matthew) Kramer, Cheryl (Karl) Brockdorff, Kyle Galloway, Zach (Sarah) Allemon, Sarah (Tyler)Hollenbeck, Andrew (Stacy) Kistuline, Troy Nelson, Eric (Lisa Kuebler) Nelson, Emily Nelson, and Jessica Kistuline. His memory will also be cherished by his greatgrandchildren: Kendra Murd, Gabriel and Everett Alexander, Arianna and Gavin Jarvis, Alexis Gerow, Jubilee Finchum, Bentley and Lincoln Allemon, Angela Sierengowski, Jordy Kistuline, Casper Hollenbeck, Elliot Nelson, and soon, Calvin Brockdorff.
A private family committal service will be held. Arrangements by the Young Gilbert Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Algonac, MI/
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