Leonard (Lenny ) Wolpa, a beloved member of the Denver Jewish community and respected businessman, passed away Jan. 11, 2012, in Denver.
Rabbis Steven Foster, Salomon Gruenwald and Selwyn Franklin and Cantor Martin Goldstein officiated at the Jan. 15 service at the HEA. Interment followed at Emanuel Cemetery. Feldman Mortuary made the arrangements.
He dedicated himself to his loving family. We were the center of his life, they said. Lenny was known for his kindness, warmth and great sense of humor. He had many friends and was sincerely loved by all who knew him. He will be missed.
Mr. Wolpa was born on Sept. 17, 1926, in Chicago, Ill., and was raised in Omaha, Neb.
He joined the US Navy when he was 17, took advantage of the GI Bill, attended the University of Nebraska and earned a degree in agricultural engineering.
After college Mr. Wolpa returned to the military as an officer in the Air Force. He was honorably discharged with the rank of captain.
He married Lenore (Layah) Wolpa on June 17, 1952. She was the love of his life.
Mr. Wolpa pursued a career in sales and manufacturing. His path, which was rocky at times, led him to the sales and marketing of machinery used to produce seamless gutter.
He developed a successful worldwide distribution network for that equipment, and as a result created businesses, careers and opportunities for many people.
An avid golfer who loved sports, especially Nebraska football, Mr. Wolpa generously gave to charity and participated in numerous community organizations.
Mr. Wolpa is survived by his wife Lenore (Layah) Wolpa; daughter Mindy Wolpa and son Alan (Sylvia) Wolpa; sister Dorine Wolpa and brothers Jerry (Barbara) Wolpa, Buzz Wolpa and Tony (Beverly) Wolpa; grandchildren Zach, Amy, Ryan and Shawna; and many nieces and nephews.
Contributions may be made to Shalom Cares or The Denver Hospice.
Copyright © 2012 by the Intermountain Jewish News
