Karleen (Lockwood) Lessenger of Columbia, died Friday March 21, 2003 at the Windham Hospital after a heroic fight against cancer. She was born Nov. 14, 1921 to Karl and Francesca (Traut) Lockwood. She lived in W. Hartford and attended Beech Park School and Hall High School. She completed her schooling at Penn Hall (Finishing School) in Chambersburg, PA., graduating in 1938. Karleen is survived by her husband Maxton Lessenger, her daughter and son in law Karen and Leslie Lewis of Willimantic , her son and daughter in law Kurt and Anne Lessenger of Columbia and 2 granddaughters Marissa Lewis of Brookline, MA. and Corrine (Lewis) Richard and her husband Luc of Amston. She was predeceased by her brother George Pasco "Buddy" Lockwood whom she adored and was his sailing mate in many sailboat races on Columbia Lake. She married Max on March 24, 1943 in the Columbia Congregational Church. Her death occurred two days prior to their 60th wedding anniversary. She loved her family and took great pleasure when people referred to her as "the lady with the nice family".She was a book addict and read them by the dozen. Karleen was also a crafter who made and gave away hundreds of creative gifts during the year and holidays. She also collected dolls in pairs from many countries to be given to her granddaughters after her death. She traveled to most capitals of Europe, Israel, N. Africa and Nordic countries. She loved her home and family with a passion. She had flowers everywhere, so it is tragic that her death occurred on the first day of spring! The recently departed Dr. "Ed" Brown of Columbia called her the Grand Dame of Columbia, and how right he was. The young people that grew up with her children always called her Mrs. L. and were astonished that she knew what songs made the charts and knew all the singers, etc. Karleen loved the Big Band era and was an excellent jitterbug dancer. Yet she danced ballroom style and received complements at various gatherings wherever she went. She knew her etiquette and received many calls from friends on the proper procedures. She always sent a thank you note for any favor done. Karleen will be missed by her many friends and family. Her granddaughters say that she will be watching over us from Heaven. The memory of her and her acts of kindness and love will live on for ever. She was the best friend we have ever had. Amen. Her funeral service will be held on Tuesday at 11:00am at the Potter Funeral Home 456 Jackson St. (Rte 195) Willimantic with the Rev. George Evans officiating. Burial will follow in the West St. Cemetery, Columbia. There are no calling hours. For those who wish, her family suggests memorial donations to the Dr. Harry Fox Cancer Resource Center at Windham Hospital, 112 Mansfield Ave. Willimantic, Ct. 06226. Please visit at
www.potterfh.com
for directions and online registry.