Rev. James E. Lenhart, age 72, passed away on SEPT 7th, 2020 in Albuquerque N.M.
Born in Kenton, Ohio on January 31st 1948 to Carl and (Margaret) MaryBelle Lenhart. Jim is survived by his brothers, Don(Marta), Chuck(Chris), Rick, David, and his sister Amie.
“Uncle Jim” is also in the hearts of his nieces and nephews: Margret (Travis Lewis), Adrienne (Daniel Mesa) Catherine (Bryan Hinkle), Elizabeth Black (Lenhart), Emily (Kevin Keitelman), Nathan Howe, Corban and Trinity Gessett.
“Great Uncle Jim” is also in the hearts of his grand nieces and nephews; Gwendolyn Lewis 20, Giana Lewis 18, Gabi Mesa 19, Cora Mesa 18, Alyssa Mesa 16, Aiden Hinkle15, Doirean Hinkle 13.
Jim, better known as ‘‘ROCKY’’ to some of his friends since high school, is also survived by his lifetime friends that have adopted Jim as their brother and into their families; especially Bishop Doug Sparks from Indiana and Ed Noriega from California.
In 1957, the family moved to Mesa AZ. for dryer air. Jim attended Queen of Peace Elementary School, from there Jim left for Regina Cleri Seminary to begin his journey to becoming a Vincentian priest. While Jim was continuing his religious studies he found other interests including to learn piano, bass guitar, and the harmonica. Jim was a lifetime student always learning and thinking. Jim eventually received a PHD in computer science as well as other academic awards and then started working at Sandia Labs in Albuquerque NM where he retired. While working at Sandia he was able help with the systems that run US tanks, by riding in them and giving advice. Jim was also Honored by the US GOV’T by having a flag flown over the Capital in his honor; for 25yrs of outstanding service to the United States of America.
Jim also appreciated cats & dogs and training them. Over the years, Jim enjoyed the companionship of a cat “Percy”, terriers “Eight Ball, “Fritz”, and later, German shepherds “Jack” and “Jill”, and “Shadow”.
A private family memorial service will be held in Mesa, AZ at a later date.
No one is meant to live forever. We have to say goodbye to every last one of our beloved friends, family members, and dearest ones. This is the saddest truth of life. It is often hard to find words to express our feelings when our closest one departs forever. We become so shocked and pained that we fail to find some words for saying them a last goodbye or to pray for a peaceful afterlife for them. As we mourn the loss, it is also necessary that we have our feelings expressed properly.
You have accomplished many good things in life. You worked hard and always followed the path of honesty. You sleep well, my brother. God has a beautiful reward for you! I never thought I would lose you this early, but you will forever be in my heart.
-Rick
No one is meant to live forever. We have to say goodbye to every last one of our beloved friends, family members, and dearest ones. This is the saddest truth of life. It is often hard to find words to express our feelings when our closest one departs forever. We become so shocked and pained that we fail to find some words for saying them a last goodbye or to pray for a peaceful afterlife for them. As we mourn the loss, it is also necessary that we have our feelings expressed properly.
You have accomplished many good things in life. You worked hard and always followed the path of honesty. You sleep well, my brother. God has a beautiful reward for you! I never thought I would lose you this early, but you will forever be in my heart.
-Rick