Leonard ''Papa'' Gettys

GETTYS, Leonard ?Papa? Kalamazoo Passed away Thursday, January 11, 2007 at home in Kalamazoo. Leonard was born on January 15, 1950 in Kalamazoo a son of Robert and Colleen Golliday Gettys. His mother survives. Leonard was united in marriage to Nancy Jager on November 17, 1979 in Hastings, MI., she survives him. Leonard served his country in the U.S. Army, from April of 1971 until honorably discharged in April of 1972. Among his decorations are the Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Bronze Star Medal. Leonard was employed at Benteler for 15 years. He loved his family first and foremost, especially enjoying the grandkids, nieces and nephews. He always had time to tease them and give them candy. Len loved the holidays, especially Christmas. He hosted family gatherings. He was also and avid Tigers and Lions fan. Surviving him are; children, Christine Bill Fitzsimmons of Climax, Michelle Vickery, Timothy Gettys, James Vickery, Kelli Michael Grassnick and Kimberly Gettys, all of Kalamazoo; grandchildren, Paige and Billy Fitzsimmons, Chelsey Vickery, Jeremy Thrasher, Raeann Lyn Marie Grassnick, Gage ?Sammy? Wilson; sister, Diane Butch Krietz; brothers, Bob Pam Getty?s, Dennis Lisa Gettys, Tom Cookie Gettys, Dan Gettys, Dee Waneta Gettys and Joe Nancy Getty?s; sister-in-law, Barb Gettys; many nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death are; father, Robert; brother, Jerry Gettys; niece, Laurie Krietz and; nephew, Mark Krietz. Visitation will be Saturday, January 13, 2007 from 6 ? 8:00 pm. And Sunday, 2 ? 4:00 and 6 ? 8:00 pm, at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick St., Kalamazoo. Funeral services will be Monday, January 15, 2007, 10:00a.m. at the Memorial Chapel, Rev. James Dyke, officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Gettys family.