In Memoriam Father Leonard J. Loegering ’65

March 2, 1947 – Nov. 18, 2015

FARGO, N.D. – Father Leonard “Lenny” J. Loegering, 68, Fargo, died Wednesday, Nov. 18, in Essentia Health.

Father Leonard Joseph Loegering, age 68, died November 18, 2015 in Fargo, ND. He was supported in his death journey by his family, fellow priests, parishioners, and friends.

Leonard Loegering left home at an early age to pursue a calling to the priesthood. In his Deacon paper (1973) he wrote, “I see priesthood as a gift that is given to me by God for my own good as well as that of the entire body of Christ.” He also wrote, “Jesus is Life. He has set us free to be human. We need to learn to love to be what we are.“ Whether golfing, fishing, traveling, or sharing happy or sad times many who knew Fr. Len say that they were in the presence of Jesus himself. Len gave life to others because of His love.

Fr. Leonard Loegering served twelve communities in the Fargo Diocese during his forty-two years as priest. (Holy Spirit in Fargo, Grafton, Langdon, Wales, Mt. Carmel, Pisek, Conway, Lankin, Holy Family in Grand Forks, Wyndmere, Kindred, and Milnor) Fr. Len served all who came to him. He did not see himself as a “high priest” to be served with awe. Rather, all who know him view him as a friend, confidant, and as family. He could take any ordinary occurrence, something from nature, or even a kidney transplant, and turn it into something meaningful with a spiritual or special message.
Father Len loved and appreciated his family. While in college he wrote the following to his mother, “Home is a Heart pumping forth Life! So, Rich or Poor, I don’t care, but only that you have cared!” Fr. Len lived by those words not caring if someone was rich or poor. He saw himself as a Shepherd “called” to serve. He lived the life of a shepherd caring more for his flock than himself. He was a listener. He heard things that were not spoken. He was fair and a problem solver. He offered prayers, support, and advice (if asked). He gave everyone a chance–unless he was playing pinochle!

Leonard Loegering was born March 2, 1947 in Britton, SD to Herman and Mary Loegering. Leonard graduated from St. Mary’s Grade School, Fargo. He earned his high school, college and post graduate degrees from Collegeville, MN. Len was ordained to the priesthood June 10, 1973 at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Fargo, ND.

Father Loegering is survived by his brothers and sisters: Jerome, Theresa (Richard) Lothspeich, Rosella Jangula, Florence (Gary) Wegan, Sylvan (Marge), George (Marilyn), Dennis (Carol), Annette Bruns, Angela Olson, Julia Tschider, Paul (Barb), his sister-in-law Anna Loegering and brother-in-law Al Mikesh. Many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews survive him, as well. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Donald, sister Agnes Mikesh and brother’s in-law Jerry Bruns and Gordon Tschider.

Visitation will be Sunday November 22 from 5-7 PM, with a prayer service at 7 PM at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Fargo. Visitation will continue Monday, Nov. 23 from 9-10 a.m. followed by the funeral Mass at 10 AM at St. Mary‘s Cathedral. Burial will be in Wyndmere, N.D. Arrangements by Boulger Funeral Home and Celebration of Life Center in Fargo.

The Saint John’s Prep community remembers Fr. Lenny’s family and parish in our thoughts and prayers. 
“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.  Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”

– Matthew 5:3-9