Leonard Metz

Leonard "Leo" Metz, 82, of Akron, Ohio passed away after a brief illness on February 24, 2024, at Altercare Rehabilitation of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.

Leo was born in 1941 in Mogadore, Ohio to Elza and Nanny Blanche Metz, who preceded him in death. Leo is also preceded in death by siblings, Gordon, Shirley, Louise, Marlene and David, and his former spouse, Carmabelle.

Leo is survived by his sons, Jeffrey Metz and Stephen Metz (and his wife, Annette), his daughter, Deborah Metz, and his best friend, Gloria Metz. He is also survived by his grandchildren Christina, Raymond, Stephen Samuel, Mandy, Stevie, Zack, Cody, and Jaden; great-grandchildren Melissa, Ivory, Abigail, and Laila, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends, all of whom he greatly cherished.

Leo was a longtime employee of AC&Y Railroad (now Norfolk Southern Railroad) until his retirement in the early 1990s. After his retirement, Leo returned to the workforce and was employed at Akron Regional Food Bank for several years.

Leo will be remembered for his enduring nature and interest in meeting new people, most of whom quickly became his friends. Leo was a storyteller and loved to share humorous stories about his adventures and misadventures, many of which included friends and family members.

Abraham Lincoln is quoted as saying, "In the end, it's not the years in your life that counts. It's the life in your years." If this is truly a measure of a full life, Leo lived one. He enriched the lives of many with his friendliness, humor, and smile. This is the memory that will remain in the hearts of all those who have loved him.

A Celebration of Life is planned for this summer to honor Leo. Details will be provided at a later date.