Community Mourns the Loss of Leroy Jansen

News Summary

Leroy Lawrence Jansen, a revered community member and former General Motors employee, passed away at 84. Known for his warmth, faith, and involvement in local activities, Leroy is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. His contributions as a devoted Catholic and his culinary skills enriched the lives of many. A funeral mass will honor his legacy as friends and family come together to pay their respects.

Scottsville, KY – Leroy Lawrence Jansen, an esteemed member of the community and former General Motors employee, passed away at the age of 84 on May 26, 2025, at Hospice House in Bowling Green, Kentucky. His death marks the loss of a beloved local figure known for his warmth and dedication to family and community.

Originally hailing from Trenton, Illinois, Leroy began his career in the automotive industry at General Motors in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1964. He dedicated 27 years of service to the company, retiring from the Corvette Plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky, in 1991. Post-retirement, he took ownership of Lee’s Custom Butchering, a venture he successfully operated until 1999. Following that endeavor, Leroy continued to share his culinary skills by working in meat departments at established local stores, including H. G. Hills and Sam’s Club, until his retirement in 2016.

Leroy held deep connections to his faith, serving as a devout Catholic at Christ the King Catholic Church in Scottsville. His commitment to the church was evident in his role as an usher and greeter, where many in the congregation appreciated his welcoming demeanor. Additionally, he was an active member of the Knights of Columbus and the United Auto Workers, contributing to the local community through these organizations.

Beyond his professional life, Leroy was renowned for being an avid gardener, often sharing his love for plants with his family and friends. He was a dedicated fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, demonstrating his enthusiastic support for the team. Known for his friendly nature, Leroy was appreciated for his ability to forge friendships easily, leaving a lasting impact on those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Leroy is survived by his wife of 55 years, Lois Jean Jansen, and his children, daughter Krista Jansen Soelke, married to Robert Soelke, and son Bruce Albert Jansen, married to Sandy Keen. The family includes four grandchildren: Alexis Nicole Jansen, married to Stephen Payne Spears, and three grandchildren: Jack William Soelke, Ava James Soelke, and Mattie Jansen Soelke, all residing in Bowling Green, KY. He also leaves behind a great-granddaughter, Emryn Leigh Spears, from Columbia, KY. Leroy was preceded in death by his son, Brian Jansen, which adds a layer of sorrow to the family’s loss.

A funeral mass honoring Leroy is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Friday at Christ the King Catholic Church, with Father Tom Buckman officiating. Following the mass, Leroy will be laid to rest at Allen County Memorial Gardens. Friends and family will have the opportunity to pay their respects during a visitation from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday at Goad Funeral Home. There will also be visitation from 1:00 p.m. on Friday at Christ the King Catholic Church until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Christ the King Catholic Church through Goad Funeral Home. Leroy’s legacy of kindness, dedication to family, and community involvement will be cherished by many in Scottsville and beyond.

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Additional Resources

• WCLU Radio: Leroy Lawrence Jansen
• Wikipedia: General Motors
• Legacy: Donald Lane Obituary
• Google Search: Leroy Lawrence Jansen
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Knight of Columbus