Leonard Steenburg

November 17, 2012

Clarks Summit, PA. - Leonard Steenburg, 90, of Clarks Summit, Pa, formerly of Elba, died peacefully on Saturday, (Nov. 17th, 2012) after a courageous battle with multiple myeloma. Leonard was born in Cherry Valley, N.Y. on April 14, 1922 a son of the late Jesse and Helen (Morton) Steenburg. He attended Cherry Valley School, excelling in sports, particularly baseball. Leonard married the love of his life, the late Doris Hamm and owned and operated dairy farms in Hartwick Seminary and Elba. After his retirement from Niagara Mohawk they spent time traveling and enjoying a few months of the year in Florida. In 2006, he moved to Clarks Summit, to live with his eldest daughter. He was an incredible Godly prayer warrior for his entire family. He was so proud of all his family as was seen in the gallery of pictures in his room. He served faithfully in various leadership capacities at First Baptist Church of Elba where he had a long-time membership. He was inventive and a problem-solver, able to fix anything. His love of gardening was evident in his beautiful roses, various other flowers and wonderful fruits and vegetables which he shared with many. Woodworking was another passion, and he created many pieces for his daughters, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He enjoyed daily watching the various birds that feed at his feeders. Leonard could best be described as a hard working, gentle, compassionate man that had a generous spirit. He loved telling stories about his life to his family. His faith in God and strength will remain as an inspiration to all who knew him. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends. He is survived by three daughters, Joan Girts of Clarks Summit, PA., Cheryl (David) Whitten of Standish, ME., and Karen (Harry) Dilcher of Muncy, PA.; eight grandchildren; and fifteen great grandchildren. Leonard was preceded in death by his wife, Doris (Hamm) Steenburg; sister Melva Nowak; and son-in-law Larry Girts. Friends may call on Tuesday from 7-9 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Elba, 32 South Main Street, Elba, where Leonard's Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday a 1:00 p.m. Memorials may be made to Guiding Eyes for the Blind, 611 Granite Springs Rd., Yorktown Heights, NY 10598, HomeCare & Hospice, 550 East Main St., Batavia, NY 14020, or the First Baptist Church of Elba. Burial will be in Maple Lawn Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to the Burdett & Sanford Funeral Home, Oakfield.