Leonard J. Karlen

Leonard "Lenny" J. Karlen, 90, Edgar, died Wednesday, January 14, 2015 at Bell Tower in Merrill, under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services. He was born December 12, 1924 in Rib Falls, son of the late Henry and Anna (Rothenberger) Karlen. On May 11, 1946, he married Doris Woller at Holy Family Catholic Church, Poniatowski. She preceded him in death on April 20, 2008. Lenny worked for Edgar Implement and later owned and operated Len Karlen Tractor and Implement in Edgar until his retirement. He had a great love for repairing and refurbishing Farmall and International equipment. For over 65 years, Lenny worked with local farmers and tractor enthusiasts and his passion for old tractors went well into his retirement years. His vast knowledge and teaching will be sadly missed. Among some of his favorite pastimes, Lenny enjoyed fishing trips to Canada, gardening and both watching and attending Packer games. Survivors include, five children, Bonnie (David) Kaiser, Edgar, Michael (Rhonda) Karlen, Tomahawk, Ozzie (Geri) Karlen, Athens, Denise (Verne) Johnson, Camdenton, Mo. and Tim (Tracey) Karlen, Edgar; 26 grandchildren and 45 great-grandchildren. Besides his parents and wife, Doris, he was preceded in death by a daughter and son-in-law, Pamela and Mark Marzynski; one son, Russell Karlen; two granddaughters, Charity and Betsy; two infant grandsons, T.J. and Blake; one daughter-in-law, Cynthia Karlen; and two sisters, Agnes Literski and Marie Rauen. The funeral mass will be celebrated at Noon on Saturday, January 17, 2015 at Holy Family Catholic Church, Poniatowski. Rev. Robert Streveler will preside. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Friends may call on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the church. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Bell Tower and the staff at Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services for the exceptional care and support for Lenny. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Edgar is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com