NORFOLK – Leonard (Lenny) Laibstain, born December 29, 1924, passed away peacefully at 98 on April 26, 2023.
He was the son of David and Rebecca Laibstain (of blessed memory) and brother to Dr. Alter Laibstain (Dorothy), Dr. Herman Laibstain (Lenore), Eva Laibstain Wainger (Paul), Harry Laibstain (Helen), and Rosalind Laibstain Gamsey (Linwood).
Leonard was born and raised in the Berkley section of Norfolk. He graduated from Maury High School and took some college courses at the Norfolk division of William and Mary (now ODU). He was a Mason of Norfolk Lodge #1 and a Shriner.
In 1939, at the age of 15, Leonard and his brother Harry started Virginia Furniture Company, where he worked until he was 95. After having heart surgery, he visited patients through national support group Mended Hearts for over 25 years. Leonard was kind, generous, and had a good sense of humor and was a friend to all. He loved to tell stories of events of his past, especially the time he worked as a young boy at Ocean View.
Surviving is his devoted and the love of his life wife, Carol. They had over 65 years together. With her they traveled extensively in the U.S. and Europe. They took more than 30 cruises and enjoyed going to plays and concerts.
He is survived by his children, Daniel (Jane) of N. Potomac, Md., Jeffrey (Bonnie) of Virginia Beach, and Patricia Laibstain (Kirsten Berol) of Baltimore, Md.; grandchildren, Blake, Raven, Sara (Reggie), and Marc whom he loved dearly. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; sister-in-law, Helen Laibstain; and brother-in-law, Linwood Gamsey.
A funeral service took plaec at H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts., Norfolk Chapel.
Donations to Beth El Temple or a favorite charity.