Leonard James Lutz

Len fought heart disease most of his life as well as other health-related issues. He was born on June 27, 1940, to Leonard and Rosamond Lutz. He was raised in Kansas City, KS, graduating from Wyandotte High School in 1958. Len’s love for music started at an early age – from singing in the high school choir to performing on stage to managing the musical merchandise department for Jenkins Music for 8 years. While in this position, he was fortunate to be able to meet and play with many celebrity musicians as they brought their tours through Kansas City. He transitioned to the printing industry in the early 80s and retired in 1998. Hobbies were never a problem with this guy – he loved to drive and work on MGs, as well as spending many hours sailing, flying RC planes, and collecting HO-scale model trains. He was an avid reader and the biggest sports fan around - watching every Royals or Chiefs game on TV. Len played the guitar in countless bands around KC no matter the musical style - polka to jazz, he could play it all. He was the consummate entertainer on stage. His friends referred to him as the King of Chords. He led the chancel choir at Southwood UCC for eight years. After that he was a member of Raytown Christian Church’s Praise band for several years also singing bass in the choir. He has always been known for his sweet smile, bad puns and gentle ways.

Len was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Rosamond Lutz, sister and husband Carol Haworth (Bob). He is survived by his wife of 53 great years, Joyce, daughter and son-in-law, Traci Bertz (Todd), three granddaughters Lauren Whelchel (Dustin), Alli Bertz, Anna Bertz (Alec Birks), great grandchildren, Kennedy Ann and Lucas Todd Whelchel, niece Beth Davis (Steve), great nephew Tyler Davis (Natalie), great niece Bridget Burkett (Bryan), and darling great, great niece Mallory.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Len’s name to Specialized Hospice, 2311 Redwood Ave, Suite A, Independence, MO 64157.

Len will be privately interned at the Antioch Chapel of D.W. Newcomers on Sunday, August 7th.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.dwnwhitechapel.com for the LUTZ family.