Lenny John Gertken

Lenny's smile, laugh and story telling will be missed dearly. He was a one-of-a kind gentleman who crossed so many of our paths thru his journey of life. He was kind offering what he had to others with ease. The most precious gift he gave was himself. Love and respect Lenny. You may rest in Peace now with our Lord and with everlasting love.

We will deeply miss u.rip big guy

To Lenny for always having a big heart!! You are with our Father now.

I often talked with Lenny on the street, sometimes when he was helping the Fibs Cart. I would hear from Lenny when there was legal trouble of some kind. He always impressed me with his refusal to back down when he thought he was right and he was often more "right" than authorities would give him credit for. He had health issues and faced them with unflinching courage. He was an interesting man. Talking with him, listening to him, was never dull. I will miss him. Eric Schulenburg

Lenny, was one of the good ones.... I loved his stubbornness and I knew beneath his sometimes "gruff" exterior, he had a heart of gold. I was so proud of him in his new apartment- every time I visited him the place smelled like bleach and cleaner and all of his dishes were washed and his laundry done. I met him in 2011 when I first started doing food on State Street for people who were homeless... I went to countless Doctor appointments with him and sat and talked with him many evenings in the wintertime when he chose to stay outside, rather than go into shelter. He always had a smile on his face for me, and would call me from time to time to tell me what others who were outside needed. He never asked for much, he was pretty self-reliant. When he did get something, he was appreciative and thankful. He would joke around and tease me like a little sister, because that was his way- his nature was positive and happy, but he also didn't sugar-coat anything... he was a straight shooter. I loved him like a brother and was so proud of the kind of person he tried to be. I will miss you Lenny, the world seems so much smaller without you and your bear hugs in it anymore. Love and peace to you my brother. -Tami (Miller) Fleming