Kanitz, Leonard K.

Died unexpectedly December 10, 2021 after a fall down the basement stairs. Len was born November 28, 1946 in Saint Paul, the son of Leonard J. Kanitz and Angeline (Kanitz) McDonald. Preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Luella Mitchell, George and Edward; his grandson, Tyler Seifert and daughter, Paula (Kanitz) Seifert. Survived by his wife of 50 years, Ellen (Griggs) Kanitz; his daughter, Pamela (Kanitz) Rutten and husband JJ; son, Leonard J. Kanitz; grandchildren, Stephanie Seifert, Michael, Elizabeth and Tanner Rutten, who refer to him lovingly as “Papa” and brother, Roger Kanitz. Leonard was a proud Navy Vietnam Veteran. He served on the USS Ponchatoula AO-148. He worked as a mechanic for the city of Mendota Heights for 38 years. When he was not working on vehicles for the city he could be found wrenching on cars for friends and family. Len also had quite the green thumb, and if you stopped by to visit you were sure to get a tour of his garden. He was very proud of his yard filled with tomatoes, peppers and flowers. He was an amazing son, husband, father, friend, neighbor, favorite uncle, and especially grandfather. He will be missed terribly. Due to weather, covid and the holidays, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.