Leonard Beardsley

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Leonard Leroy Beardsley. He left behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. His life was a testament to resilience, kindness, and unwavering devotion to friends and family. Leonard Leroy Beardsley (Butch), aged 77, passed away on April 26, 2024, at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids of natural causes with the assistance of Hospice.

Butch was born on May 10, 1947, in Grand Rapids, MI. Butch was preceded in death by his parents Leonard Beardsley, Mary Ann Espanio and Great Grandmother Dorothy (Smith) Parish. Their memories will forever be etched in our hearts. Butch was a loving parent to his children Christopher Beardsley, Tana Beardsley, Sara Hudson, Bryan and Emily Beardsley and their spouses Apel Soules (Tana), Ken Pike (Sara) and, Angy (Bryan). Butch adored all ten of his grandchildren. Butch maintained close bonds with his siblings, who stood by his side through thick and thin, Sister Susan (Beardsley) Christians, Brother Robert (Bobby) Montoya, Nieces Lisa Pineda and Tressa Jones and great nieces and nephews, cousins Eva Devoogd, Nancy Wheeler, and Lori Smith Vera.

Butch was a hard worker and skilled in numerous trades, a man of many talents. Butch enjoyed a cold beer on a hot sunny day, baseball games, cards, grilling out with his daughters and spending time making memories with close friends and family. Butch has been a Grand Rapids native his entire life with roots from the west side and has left behind many dear classmates and friends.

May Butch rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love of those he held dear.

“Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”