Michael Ryan Lenling lived his life filling every moment full. His 38 years were not nearly long enough for us, but he lived a full life -- loving his wife Katelyn and his little daughters Kenley and Landry.
Michael was born to Myron and Lorene Lenling in Aberdeen, South Dakota on September 13, 1985. He joined his siblings Laurie, Kathie, Arnie, Jason, Wayne, and Samantha. He graduated from Aberdeen High School and earned a degree in business at Northern State University. He became employed by Terex of Watertown, South Dakota. He made his home in Gainesville, TX. Later he met Katelyn in October of 2014 and they were married in 2017. They became proud parents in 2018 to their daughter Kenley who is five and her sister Landry who is two.
Michael's life continued to blossom as being a husband and daddy filled his world. You always knew Michael loved life. He found a new home in Texas, rooting for the Longhorns and Dallas Cowboys, enjoying his backyard pool and loving his family.
He became involved in his church, Gateway of Frisco, TX, growing his Christian faith, being a loving husband and a doting and very proud father. He taught his girls about the love of God and that Jesus is our savior.
He never let time slip away. He was always busy. Indeed, he lived life purpose filled. Sharing his faith, he helped many friends to strengthen theirs. He truly reflected Brian Tracy's words, ''Every single moment shapes our future. Be intentional. Live on purpose.''
Michael became a very loved part of Katelyn's family being a wonderful son-in-law to Jim and Charlotte Strahan, brother-in-law to Casey and Penny, and Shelli and Steven. We shared wonderful times and made many special memories. Alongside our times together were his days spent with his girls that included: giggles and fun on hikes, splashing in the pool, attending a concert with Kenley, bike rides, trips to the zoo, and a myriad of activities including a fun ski vacation to Creede, Colorado.
He was also a proud uncle to his nieces: Savanna, Mhyra, Azalia, Morgan, Addison, and Macy and great niece, Kamree. He shared a special connection and love with his nephews: Trevor, Terron, Ashton, Jayce, Jameson, Christopher, Brandon, Tanner, Tucker and Canon. Michael made a point to challenge his nephews to be strong Christian leaders as they grew to become men, he knew they were watching his lead.
Michael also was involved with Habitat for Humanity and believed in giving back. He taught his girls a needed lesson; Do good, receive good. Simple and purposeful.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Michael would want all of us to know that in James 1:2-4 that life brings trials and tribulations, but God always wants us to persevere and take great joy in knowing that He always provides us with comfort and hope. He molds us to be even stronger and more faithful.
In a short but full life, Michael left the world with great accomplishments - his wonderful family, a successful career and an abiding faith in our Heavenly Father. His light will always continue to shine.
Pallbearers will be Curtis Metz, Doug Metz, Tyler Hanson, Arnie Lenling, Wayne Lenling, Jason Lenling, Joey Velasquez, and Casey Strahan.
Honorary pallbearers will be Michael Swick, Trevor Black, Terron Martin, Ashton Lenling, Jayce Lenling, Brandon Velasquez, Canon Shields, Tucker Shields, Christopher Black, and Jameson Black. Also his special Terex customers that were great friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First State Bank of Gainesville to benefit Kenley and Landry. Please contact Joy at 940-669-4709.
Also, a college fund account is being created for the girls/daughters at First United Bank Gainesville.
Condolences(5)
Laura Rosin Flynn
Aberdeen, SD Wednesday, May 1, 2024 My deepest sympathy for Michael family and friends. My dad Jim Rosin is sorry for your loss too. I remember how excited Lorene was when Michael was born. Watching his family made me want a sibling.Much love to your family
Alan Owen
N Syracuse, NY Wednesday, May 1, 2024 To Mike's family and friends,I had the honor of working with Mike at Terex. He was a shining star and someone who always got it done, or figured out how to get it done. A great example for others to follow. He will be missed by his coworkers and customers alike.
Sending our deepest condolences and prayers 🙏
Alan & Rhonda Owen
Derrick Johnson
Aberdeen, SD Wednesday, May 1, 2024 Mike was such a positive and spiritual man who lit up any room he entered. He will be missed and lovedMark Klumph
Leola, SD Tuesday, April 30, 2024 To Mike's family and friends. I worked with Mike at MFG in South Dakota. He was a great human being and through some of the talks we had I know how much he Loved the Lord!! I'll see you in Heaven Mike!!Sarah 'Sterzinger' Ossanna
Aberdeen, SD Tuesday, April 30, 2024 Absolutely ALL of my love and thoughts to his beautiful wife and precious daughters and all of his family and close friends.He was an incredible person.