Leonard "Len" Hekel

Leonard "Len" G. Hekel, age 82, of Oak Park Heights, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026. Born on December 3, 1943, in Tremont, Illinois, Len was the son of George and Florence Hekel. He grew up in Tremont, graduated from Dunlap High School, and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in business from Bradley University in Peoria in 1965.

After college, Len proudly served in the U.S. Army at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Upon receiving his Honorable Discharge, he continued his studies at the University of Illinois, where he met the love of his life, Judith McNary. They tied the knot on January 25, 1969, in New Canton, Illinois, and later welcomed their beloved daughter, Makenzie, while living in Peoria.

Len had a long career as an analyst with Travelers Insurance, which started in Peoria and continued when the family made the move to Minnetonka, Minnesota, In 1983. He loved his work and continued to work diligently well into his 60s, before retiring in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication.

Len was a passionate golfer, enjoying every opportunity to hit the greens, and he took pride in teaching Makenzie the game. As a dedicated dad, he coached her sports teams, cheering her on at every competition. He remained active throughout his life, enjoying running and playing card games like Bridge and Poker, with many memorable vacations in Las Vegas at the poker tables.

In 2012, he achieved his dream as a golfer. Judy and Len moved into a house on the #6 hole on TPC golf course in Blaine. There he watched the PGA tournament golf from his deck and from friends' yards next to the 6th green. He loved watching the TV Broadcast replay, where he could sometimes spot Judy and Makenzie as Marshalls on the 11th hole.

Not only was Len a devoted husband and father, but he was also a progressive thinker who encouraged Judy and Makenzie to chase their dreams, advocating for their passions in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Len will be deeply missed by his wife of 57 years, Judith; his daughter Makenzie (James) McCormick; triplet grandchildren Colin, Keegan, and Chloe; his sister Lora (Joseph) Leber; and many other relatives and friends. Leonard is preceded in death by his loving parents, George and Florence Hekel.

A future outdoor gathering of family and friends will be held to celebrate Len's life. Len's warmth and spirit will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.