Leona "Lee" Ficken

January 1, 1936 - April 16, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Leona "Lee" Ficken, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Lee left us on April 16, 2025, at the age of 89.

She was a woman of unmatched strength, love, and resilience, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Lee was born on January 1, 1936, and was the proud sister to Helen Meyer and Oleta Spurlock (deceased). She was a loving and devoted mother to her children, Michael A. Selleck, David E. Selleck (deceased), Stephen P. Ficken, and Laura L. Ficken (deceased). She was a grandmother to Michael Selleck Jr., Crystal Pettit, Tiffany Keune, Anthony Valdivia, Brittany Ficken, Ashleigh Ficken, Sarah Selleck, and Aaron Selleck. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren, Morgann Selleck, Kaite Selleck, Lincoln Pettit, Harrison Pettit, Charlee Keune, Kensington Keune, and Maxwell Keune.

Lee’s career spanned several decades and industries, but one of her greatest achievements was founding Laura Lynn Healthcare in 1997, a staffing agency she started in loving memory of her daughter, Laura. This agency, dedicated to filling positions in the healthcare industry, was a testament to Lee’s passion for helping others and her determination to honor her daughter’s memory.

Before her work in healthcare, Lee was a familiar face behind the bar and in dining rooms across the community. She worked at places like Hillcrest County Club, The Ararat Shrine Temple, The Locker Room, and Canaday Lounge, where she built lasting relationships with those she worked with, often treating them as family. Her generosity extended beyond the workplace—Lee would often give rides to those in need, ensuring they never had to worry about getting to and from work.

Known for her stubbornness and hard-headedness, Lee was equally known for her big heart and unyielding love for her family and friends. She would do anything for her children and grandchildren, always making sure they had what they needed, from winter coats to school clothes to meals.

Lee had many passions throughout her life, including gardening, collecting antiques, glass animals, coins, and most importantly, anything made by her grandchildren. Her joy in these simple pleasures was a reflection of the love she poured into everything she did.

A strong woman, Lee faced multiple challenges throughout her life and never wavered. She fought until the very end, always doing things her way. She was wise, kind, and loving, a true matriarch who will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

In her own words, Lee lived life on her terms:

"I faced it all, and I stood tall

And I did it my way." — Frank Sinatra

Rest in peace, Lee. You were one of a kind, and your spirit will continue to inspire us all.