Leonard J. Ambrose

Leonard Joseph Ambrose, 89, of La Crosse, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, September 19, 2020. He was born in La Crosse on May 25, 1931 to Joseph and Eva (Flottmeyer) Ambrose. On October 5, 1957 he married Betty Jane Vatland and they were together for 41 years until her passing away in 1999. He married Elizabeth Oldenburg on October 22, 2004.

After graduating from Aquinas High School in 1949, Lenny served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean war. He then enjoyed a 31-year career with the U.S. Postal Service, retiring in 1993. As someone who always stayed busy, he volunteered his time delivering meals on wheels for 21 years. Retirement suited Lenny well, as it gave him more time to spend doing the things he loved. A few of those included regularly traveling to Canada to go fishing with his sons, grandson, and many friends. He also frequently hunted with friends, enjoyed the outdoors at the family cabin, and played a few rounds of golf. In the winter months, he enjoyed traveling to California to visit his sister and her family.

Leonard is survived by his wife Elizabeth of 16 years; his sons Dave (Vicki), Steve (Diane), and Paul (Leslie) Ambrose; a sister Kathleen Brady; a sister-in law Jean Ambrose; grandchildren Leah (Charlie) Vogt, Joseph, Jacob, and Michael Ambrose. He is further survived by his stepchildren Harold (Laura) Oldenburg, and Heather (Jeff) Hutschenreuter; brothers-in-law Butch (Kathy) Luedke, and Donald (Louise) Luedke; sister-in-law Phyllis Luedke; step-grandson Jake (Mikala) Hutschenreuter; six step grandchildren and six step-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Betty; brothers Tom and Richard Ambrose; brother-in-law Richard Brady; brothers-in-law James and Rex Luedke; stepdaughter Beth Henthorn; and his dog Lucy.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM, on Thursday, September 24, 2020, in Mormon Coulee Memorial Park Cemetery, N1137 Bloomer Mill Road, La Crosse, WI. Rev. Peter Raj will officiate.