Leonard A. Jacobsson

Leonard A. Jacobsson, of Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening, July 30, surrounded by the family who loved him dearly.

Born July 25, 1935, in Robbinsdale, MN, to George and Marge Jacobsson, Lenny was one of five children. He is survived by his devoted wife of 72 years, Katherine; his children Denise Wyman, Randal Jacobsson, Tammy Nelson, Gregory Jacobsson, and Sandra Schorn; and his sister Marietta Adelman. He is preceded in death by his son Michael Jacobsson (1981). Lenny leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and countless friends who became part his chosen family.

From a young age, Lenny was deeply involved in his community, even helping with the daily raising and lowering of the flag at the Victory Memorial Drive monument—built with help from his own grandfather after World War I.

Lenny was on a first name basis with the Robbinsdale police department, because of his mischievous behavior and shenanigans.

In school, Lenny excelled in shop classes, though not without a little mischief—famously being kicked out of class for trying to “shock” the shop teacher. As a consequence, his father promptly put him to work wiring the family’s new home, which he did successfully.

Lenny’s love for mechanics extended to working on cars and racing stock cars. After graduating, he followed his older brother Terry’s lead and enlisted in the U.S. Army. Stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, with the 82nd Airborne, Lenny made 21 jumps from a perfectly good air plane - each time carrying gear heavier than he was.

After his first year of service, he returned home and married the love of his life, Katherine Cook, who joined him back at Fort Bragg before they returned to Minnesota to start their family in Brooklyn Center. Lenny began working for his father at ACME Metals, and once again found ways to serve his community, including as a Cub Scout and Girl Scout leader.

When his father passed away, Lenny pursued other career opportunities, ultimately becoming Plant Manager at Hi-Lo Manufacturing, where he oversaw operations, product development, and design. In 1971, he joined the Aqua Jesters Clown Club, bringing laughter and comfort to parades, community events, and, most importantly, to children in hospitals—often those facing terminal illness. This work became one of the greatest joys of his life.

In 1981, tragedy struck when his eldest son, Michael, passed away after a long battle with Hodgkin’s Disease. The loss was immeasurable, but Lenny carried on with quiet strength, continuing to give to others in every way he could. He later joined Copper Sales in Anoka, MN, managing maintenance and engineering—fixing, improving, and streamlining everything he touched.

Lenny and his wife lived just blocks from his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Pat and Rich LaBelle. The Jacobsson and Labelle families were inseparable, and appeared to be one big family, all the children growing up more like brothers and sisters rather than cousins. Len and Kay spent considerable time with Pat and Rich, on road trips. Pat and Rich hosted pool parties, where it wasn’t uncommon for Len to dive into the pool from the top of the pool shed. He was like a big kid, full of life, always horsing around, and causing a ruckus. Rich and Len were the very best of friends.

Lenny retired in 2000 from both his professional career and the Aqua Jesters. Retirement, however, did not slow him down. He traveled with Katherine for a time, then found a new calling at the Brooklyn Center American Legion, quickly becoming a beloved part of the Legion family. He enjoyed playing cribbage for hours, with the “Famous Coach”, Marly the Comedian, Stoic Larry, and Paul the Cheater-Saddler. He worked closely with dear friends Brian, Lynell, Connie, Jimmy, and Bill to strengthen and improve the post—always leading with energy, humor, and determination. Lenny always had grandiose ideas on how to upgrade and improve the Legion. Brian, being more finically conscious knew Lenny would eventually get his way. He would throw up his arms at the next big idea and day “Whatever you want Lenny!”

Above all, Lenny’s children want it to be known, that he will be remembered for his generosity, kindness, and unwavering commitment to family, friends, and community. He never judged, never spoke ill of anyone, never turned away someone in need, and gave of himself fully. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Rest in peace, Dad. You did a great job. Always missed… never forgotten.

Memorial Service will be 11:00 AM Saturday, September 6 at Gearty-Delmore Robbinsdale Chapel, 3888 W. Broadway, with visitation after 10.

Private interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the Fisher House Foundation, 5045 E 54th St, Minneapolis, MN 55417

donations@fisherhouse.org