Lenny E. Jetmund, Sr.

Lenny E. Jetmund, Sr., 73, of Lowell, IN, passed away on November 26, 2024, at Brickyard Healthcare in Merrillville, IN. He was born on December 4, 1950, in Gary, IN, the son of Russell & Irene (Howe) Jetmund, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife of 25 years, Linda Mae (Tarleton) Jetmund; and his brother, Ronald R. Jetmund.

Lenny spent his early years in the Brunswick neighborhood near Gary, IN, where he forged a nearly lifelong friendship with Bruce Brieson. From the age of six, Lenny and Bruce were inseparable, sharing countless childhood adventures. They spent their days riding bikes through the neighborhood, finding ways to turn ordinary moments into daring escapades. Lenny, ever the daredevil, was known for crashing his bike into walls, bending the forks back, and hopping right back on. He wasn't above a little mischief either, occasionally busting the spokes on Bruce's front wheel—only to patch things up and be back to their usual antics the next day.

As they grew older, their friendship deepened. During the memorable blizzard of 1967, the duo shoveled snow to earn $100 each—a small fortune for two enterprising young men at the time. They worked together at a local grocery store, too, and these early experiences shaped Lenny into a hardworking and determined young man, traits that would carry him through life. In fact, his determination would eventually earn him the nickname "Mr. Know-It-All", as the man thought he knew everything!

Lenny graduated from West Side High School in 1968 before answering the call to serve his country in Vietnam. From 1971 to 1972, he served with the U.S. Army, showing the same strength and resolve he had displayed throughout his youth. After returning home, he lived in Texas for a time, where he launched himself into the janitorial business before eventually returning to Indiana to be near family following the death of his father. His devotion to his loved ones was further evidenced in his care for Linda throughout their marriage, especially during her final years. Lenny's life reflected a quiet strength, a generous spirit, and a deep appreciation for life's simple joys, whether reminiscing about childhood adventures or visiting gun shops and Cabela's with Bruce.

Those who knew him best will remember Lenny's heart of gold and will cherish his memory deeply for as long as they have the breath to speak his name. He is survived by his sisters-in-law, Rita Gray and Ginny & husband George Rodda; his children, Lenny E. Jetmund, Jr. and Penelope Jetmund; step-son, Larry Hughbanks; granddaughter, Madison Hughbanks; and a host of nieces and nephews.

A time of visitation will be held on Saturday, November 30th, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. CST (12:00 to 1:00 p.m. EST) at Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson, IL. A funeral service, officiated by Rev. Tom Akers, will immediately follow at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to an organization dear to his heart, "St. Jude Children's Research Hospital", and memorial envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Burial will take place at a later date in Pogue Cemetery, rural Fairbanks, IN.