Leonard J. Crookston

NEW FRANKLIN---Leonard John Crookston, 77, left behind a legacy of life on Independence Day, July 4, 2012, passing away at his home after a lengthy illness. Born on George Washington's birthday, February 22, 1935, in Kenmore, OH, he was passionate about his faith, country, garden, and family-especially his grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tony and Mary (Heiman) Crookston; siblings Bob Crookston, Tom Crookston, Helen Rowbottom, Tony Crookston, an infant brother and Al Crookston. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Janet, daughter Lynn (Ralph) Willig and their children: Erika, Buddy, Chris, John, Jereme, Andy, Jesse, Scott, Katie, Allison, Marissa, Luke, and Nick; daughter Beth (Gary) Gretsinger and their children: Raymond, Ryan, Leann, and Russel; son Steve (Dani) Crookston and their children: Cara, Kim, Laura, Tom, and Jessie; son Tom (Lisa) Crookston and their children: Amanda, Emily, Alicia, Margaret, Stephen, Mary Clare, Matthew, Faith, and Gabriel; daughter Cathy (Don) Macko and their children: Donnie, Hillari, Amy, Hayley, Paige, and Brandon; daughter Sue (Rick) Brogan and their children: Nicole, Ricky, Lauren, Claire, and Mason; and 22 great-grandchildren with four more on the way. He is also survived by siblings Joe Crookston, Don Crookston, Peg Norris, Martha Howard and Jim Crookston. The family would like to express their gratitude to Beth Gretsinger, whose devotion and expertise enabled Leonard to be cared for at home. A Requiem High Mass will be held Monday, July 9, 2012, Noon, at St. Sebastian Church, 476 Mull Ave., Akron. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery. Calling Hours SUNDAY 4 to 8 P.M. at the SILVA-HOSTETLER FUNERAL HOME, 1199 Wooster Rd. West, Barberton. Rosary will be said at 7 P.M. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Sebastian's Catholic Church or the educational fund of the Right to Life of North East Ohio, 572 W. Market St., Suite 2, Akron, OH 44303.