John P. Leyen's Obituary
John P. Leyen, age 85 passed away May 6, 2026. He was born in Anna Paulowna, The Netherlands and immigrated with his family in 1951 at the age of 11. After his graduation from St. Edward High School in Lakewood, he started his career in the tomato greenhouse business with his father through 1984. He then joined the Elyria School System as superintendent of school maintenance, followed by a similar position with Keystone Schools. He retired in 2007 to enjoy traveling with his wife Lily and spending time with his family and friends. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 63 years Lily (nee Klaasse). Loving father of John A., dear brother of Betsy, brother-in-law of Jeanneke Habets (nee Klaasse) Mabel Klaasse (nee Cassidy) and the late Mia Denos (nee Klaasse) Trudi Zitner (nee Klaasse) and Marcel Klaasse. Beloved uncle and grand uncle of many cherished nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Katrina (nee Alleman) and Albert Leyen. Celebration of Life at Saint Raphael Catholic Church, 525 Dover Center Road in Bay Village on June 13. Visitation at 9:30, mass at 10:30 followed by a luncheon. Inurnment Monday, June 15 at 1:45 at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery, 10175 Rawiga Road in Rittman, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Reserve Care (formerly known as Hospice of the Western Reserve) with gratitude to the Waterfall team. 17876 St. Clair Avenue Cleveland, Ohio 44110 or St. Jude Children’s Hospital501 St. Jude Place Memphis, Tennessee 38105
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