Leonard "Lenny" A. Hess

Leonard "Lenny" A. Hess, 74, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on February 19, 2024. He was born in Plymouth, IN at Parkview Hospital on July 12, 1949 to Harold and Edith (Ritenour) Hess. Lenny grew up on Pretty Lake where many family memories were made.  

During the Vietnam War, Lenny honorably served in the United States Army and was recognized for his bravery with both the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart. He remained in the community of veterans throughout his life - attending the annual Vietnam Veteran’s Reunion in Kokomo for several decades. He was a longtime member of the NRA.

He asked Cathy Kovacs to coffee for their first date in downtown Plymouth. She declined the coffee but accepted the date with a Pepsi instead. They were united in marriage in 1984 at Pretty Lake. They raised their children together and had a home along the Yellow River. Cathy and Lenny were together for almost 50 years.

Lenny's career was marked by his commitment to hard work. He worked at Chase Manufacturing as an over-the-road truck driver before joining Gulf Stream in Nappanee, where he worked diligently in his role for over two decades until his retirement in 2008.

Described as a protective father with a gruff demeanor, Lenny instilled values of perseverance and hard work in his children, shaping them into strong individuals who now appreciate the lessons learned. Despite his tough exterior, he was a unique character with a quirky sense of humor that often shone through in his interactions with loved ones. Lenny's heart would soften over time in the presence of his grandchildren.

Lenny had a deep love for the outdoors, especially enjoying canoeing on the Yellow River. He also liked to spend time in the woods, and he also liked to camp. In his free time, he could often be found in the garage tinkering and creating various projects. He loved to ride his motorcycle and enjoyed the company of his dogs. Lenny’s favorite vacation memories were made in Daytona, FL. He was able to make one last trip with all of his children and grandchildren in 2021.

Lenny is survived by his wife Cathy Hess; sons Rich Kovacs, Todd Hess, and Troy Hess; daughter Amber Hess; 11 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and brothers Rodney (Sherry) Hess and Jerry (Partner - John) Hess.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Edith; and sister Sheryl Guyse.

A visitation will be held on Monday, March 11, 2024 from 12:00PM – 2:00PM at Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N Michigan Street, Plymouth, IN 46563, followed by a graveside service at Oak Hill Cemetery, 1300 Chester Street, Plymouth, IN 46563 starting at 2:15 PM. Military honors will be rendered by the United States Army and the American Legion Post #27. A Celebration of Life will be held for family and friends at the Pretty Lake Trinity United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall from 3:00PM – 5:00PM.

Memorial Contributions in Lenny's honor can be made to the City of Plymouth – Memo: Kayak/Canoe Launch, 124 Michigan Street, Plymouth, IN 46563.