DAVID LLOYD LEHNING
MARCH 8, 1940-MAY 19, 2019
“God’s dream is that you and I and all of us will realize that we are family, that we are made for togetherness, for goodness, and for compassion.” Desmond Tutu
David was born in Buffalo NY and raised in Sardinia, NY where his commitment to family and church was evident from the very onset. Growing up he worked dutifully on his grandfather’s farm. A dedicated member of the Lutheran church he embarked on a ministerial path for a year after graduating from high school at a junior college in Bronxville, NY. Continuing his life path of working to help others David worked a variety of jobs while pursuing his Bachelors and then Master’s degree in Social Work.
His Social Work career began at Rochester General Hospital in 1980 helping patients in The Emergency Room. After many years, he found his way to St. Joseph’s Villa where he worked with adolescent girls until he retired in 2007. After retirement he worked part time with his wife Sharlene in Early Intervention.
David’s overall LIFE FOCUS and passion was F A M I L Y. The eldest sibling of a family of 8, Dave began his role as a supportive, loving, compassionate person to his family from early on in life. Always there to lend a hand or an empathetic ear to a family member in need.
Upon Marriage to his dear Sharlene on March 24, 1979 Dave began his new family role as Father. Tony (Shar’s son) was 5 years old and embraced Dave with joy. Their family of love expanded with the addition of Mikey in ’86 and his brother Bryan in ’87. Dave was their biggest advocate and supporter. Meeting all the trials, tribulations and challenges to come with LOVE, gentleness, kindness, and a great sense of humor. Regally celebrating holidays and birthdays became a family ritual.
“You made my day!” – Tony
“My dad’s the bear, The Brown Bear!” – Mikey
“I want to be that kind of dad to my son.” – Bryan
David had the privilege of being a Grandpa to Bryan’s son, Kelvin (6/24/14) for 5 years. It was one of his great joys.
David was preceded in death by – Lester(father), Norma(mother), Marilyn Jo(sister), Conne(sister), Larry Sr.(brother)
David is survived in death by – his wife Sharlene Caiazza Lehning, their sons – Tony, Mikey, and Bryan. Grandson Kelvin. His siblings – Wayne C. Lehning, Craig Lehning, Scott Lehning, Lorinda Utter, and many nieces and nephews.
Calling Hours – Wednesday, May 22nd from 4-7p.m. Riverside Chapel, 2650 Lake Avenue, Rochester, NY
Funeral – Thursday May 23 rd – 10 a.m at Spiritus Christi Church, 121 N. Fitzhugh St., Rochester, NY
PLEASE NOTE: In lieu of Flowers donations may be made to:
Heritage Christian Services Foundation, 275 Kenneth Drive, Suite 100, Rochester, NY 14623
heritagechristianservices.org
Spiritus Christi Church, 121 N. Fitzhugh St., Rochester, NY 14614
spirituschristi.org
Sharlene, You are in our hearts and prayers. Love, Mike & Karen Reimringer
Shar your Gospel family will be there to share in blessing Dave’s life as he blessed so many. My ❤️Is holding yours in Light!
Sharlene, you and the boys are in my thoughts and prayers. David has gone to be with Jesus but has left a hole for you. I pray you have the support you need during this difficult time. Mary More (Maria’s Mom)
I am praying for you and your family’s loss and grief over David’s passing. He was such a kind and loving soul. May you all have peace and comfort in knowing he has one hand and God has the other.
Love, Robin Curtis
Sharlene, we were so saddened to learn of your dear David’s passing. May you and your children feel David and God’s loving presence during this difficult time. And may David’s love of family and your memories of him gently heal your broken heart.
Love and prayers,
Ritaclare and Mike
Sharlene I’m so sorry for your loss. My heart and prayers are with you and your family in this difficult time.
Shar, we are so sorry Dave was such a sweet and loving man. You and your family are in our prayers
Sharlene just heard about Dave, we are so shocked. Our prayers are with you and the family. God bless you today and every day.
Sharlene,
At this difficult time and always, prayers, love and support are with you. Dave was a very dear man and I know he will be missed greatly by all.
Sharlene and family. I am so deeply sorry. Dave was a beautiful person and will missed by many. My prayers for all you.
Sharlene, I am so very sorry to hear about Dave’s passing. You and your family are in my prayers.
Charlene and Family, So sorry for your loss. Dave was a kind and gentle man. He will be missed by many.
Sharlene, it has been way to long. And to reconnect at this time saddens me. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. From what I have read about David he sounds like a really great guy. I am glad you were able to share a beautiful life together. God Bless
David’s enormous kindness left its fine mark on the many young ladies he cared for at St Joseph’s Villa and on me, a grateful colleague.