Leonard James Wallin

Leonard James Wallin, lovingly known as “Laid-Back Lenny,” passed away peacefully in his home on November 29, 2025, at the age of 72. Born on January 29, 1953, in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, Leonard was the son of Shirley Hartwig. He was especially close to his grandmother, Josephine Hartwig, whose love and influence stayed with him throughout his life.

He was the proud father of two children, Katee Wallin (Shawn Thompson) and Alex Wallin, and the devoted grandfather of Lilly Mae Genz and Natalee Jo Genz (Devon Meyer). Leonard is also survived by his sister, Linda Schultz (Ron Schultz); his brother, Leon Wallin; and his nieces and nephews John Gerlikowski, James Gerlikowski, Misty Wallin, Kristin Wallin, and Brandon Wallin.

Lenny was a man defined by hard work, loyalty, and quiet strength. In his day, he could outwork just about anyone — the kind of man who showed up, got the job done, and never asked for recognition. He took pride in earning everything he had and built his life with his own two hands. Beneath that tough, no-nonsense exterior was a heart full of love, humor, and unwavering devotion to his family.

A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Lenny served his country with courage and honor during the Vietnam era. Though the years that followed brought health challenges connected to his time in service, he faced them with the same grit and dignity that defined every part of his life. His strength never wavered — even when the toll of that service became his final battle.

He had his own way of doing things — sometimes stubborn, always steady — and he never failed to make his presence known. Whether it was offering advice, cracking a perfectly timed joke, or showing up right when you needed him, he left an impression that will never fade.

Outside of work and family, Lenny found freedom on two wheels. He was a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast who loved riding his Harleys, enjoying the open road, the rumble of the engine, and the calm that came with every ride. The road was his peace — just Lenny, his bike, and the wind.

To his family and friends, he’ll be remembered for his grit, his wisdom, that mischievous spark in his eye, and his unshakable Green Bay Packers pride — proudly insisting that Brett Favre was, and always will be, the only “good” quarterback.

A celebration of life will be held on January 29, 2026, at Tundra Sports Bar in Green Bay, Wisconsin, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (2774 Manitowoc Rd, Green Bay, WI 54311). Family and friends are welcome to gather, remember, and honor Lenny in the easygoing, no-fuss way he would have wanted.

Rest easy, Lenny. Ride free — we love you with our whole hearts.