Michael Lenenski, Jr.

Michael Lenenski, Jr., age 93, passed away February 27, 2022. He was born in Youngstown, Ohio on February 26, 1929 to the late Mary and Michael Lenenski. Michael graduated from Kent State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music and a Master’s Degree in speech and theatre.

He was married to his wife Carolyn, who preceded him in death, for 69 years,

and is survived by sons Keith (June) and Myron (Cheryl); four grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Michael, music educator/teacher, was the first Music Department Chairman in the Wickliffe Schools from 1955 to 1981. At Wickliffe High “Mr. L” organized one of the finest choirs in the state. Choirs sang on radio and television with many concerts in Lake County and the Cleveland area. Mr. “L” opened many doors to thousands of Wickliffe students who wanted to share in the music activities at Wickliffe High. You didn’t have to be a star to join. All he asked was that you be willing to contribute something positive to the program. “Your only limitation is your imagination.” Students who might have dropped out of school found that the various choral groups gave them something they could identify with and kept them in school. Many will remember his choirs’ rendition of Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” each holiday season. Musicals and tours to New York (60) helped inspire many students to also become involved in music and theatre.

During his tenure as a teacher, Michael helped create Lake County Music Educators and Baldwin Wallace scholarships for deserving students. Upon his retirement in 1981, a vocal music scholarship was created in his name for the out-standing vocal music students at Wickliffe High.

Friends may call at The Orlando-Donsante-Previte Funeral Home 29550 Euclid Ave., Wickliffe, on Wednesday, March 2nd from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, March 3rd at 11:00 a.m. at Western Reserve Memorial Gardens, 11521 Chillicothe Rd., Chesterland.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in the name of Michael Lenenski, to Crossroads Hospice and Palliative Care, 9775 Rockside Rd., Suite 270, Valley View, 44125.

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