Mr. Jude Thaddeous Lekan

September 4, 1936 - March 22, 2012

St. Joseph - The handsome and earthly vessel we had come to recognize as Jude T. Lekan was relinquished to the earth on March 22,2012. In exchange, Jude's warm and generous spirit was released to the heavens where he has been reunited with his loving parents, Edward and Dorothy; his wife, Yoshiko; and his grandson, Dayne. Jude was 75 years young. Remaining to honor and continue Jude's legacy of compassion and hope are his brothers, David, John, and Jake; sister, Patience; son, Eddie, and his grandson, Jude. Jude leaves us with abundant memories of his charming intensity. Regardless of the setting, Jude gave his all. He worked, played, and relaxed hard. Jude was a competitor, although he encouraged his opponents as if his true desire was that their performance be better than his best. He laughed with all of us, and when necessary cried with some of us. But, what Jude did with the most sincerity and the greatest fervor was give himself to us and love us. He will truly, truly . . . truly be missed; and by none more than me. I love you, dad. Jude's life will be celebrated at the Elks Club at 601Riverview Drive in Benton Harbor, on March 3I,2012, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Military rites will be performed at 1300 hours. Festive beverages and good food for our souls will be available. Please come prepared to smile, laugh, and share. Arrangements were entrusted to the Dey-Florin Funeral Home in St. Joseph. Messages of condolence may be sent to www.florin.net.