Leonard G. Buresh

Leonard "Len" Buresh of Fox River Grove, passed away April 18, 2015. He was born in Cary, IL on June 11, 1919.Len is survived by his son Jeffrey (Royce) Buresh, a daughter-in-law Sue Buresh, his grandchildren; Amy (Steve) Bruns, Michael Buresh and Jessica Krawczykowski as well as his gr. grandson Devin Debowski.He is preceded in death by his wife Ruth Buresh, a son Gregory Buresh and his siblings; Martin Buresh, Lawrence Buresh, Josephine Reynolds, Sylvia Peterson and Dorothy Crump. He served in the U.S. Merchant Marines in WW II as a radio operator (ensign) aboard an ammunition ship. After the war he married his beloved wife Ruth and raised his two sons in Fox River Grove where he lived for 67 years. He spent much of his working years with Illinois Bell. He was passionately vocal about the "Forgotten Heroes of WW II", and put much effort into helping the Merchant Marines gain awareness and be recognized for the critical support role they played in the success of the war. The Merchant Marine death rate was 1 in 26, the highest rate among the services in World War II. For 43 years, the U.S. government denied them veteran status and benefits until Congress corrected the injustice by finally giving them veterans' status in 1988. Len was often seen walking his dogs Fluffy and Happy everyday down by the river. He had a great sense of humor and a quick wit that brought smiles to the faces of everyone he came in contact with. His roaring laughter was contagious. Visitation will be held on May 16, 2015 at the Kahle-Moore Funeral Home, 403 Silver Lake Rd., Cary beginning at 9:00 AM and concluding with a Memorial Service and military honors at 11:00 AM. The service will be officiated by Paul Rice of Willow Creek Community Church. A celebration of life luncheon will be held at Marzano's in McHenry after the service. In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made to help purchase a park bench and plaque in his honor that will be at Lion's park in Fox River Grove. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Leonard G. Buresh please visit our Sympathy Store.

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