Obituary
Leonard Kipnis, 92, passed away on October 28, 2021. "A warm welcome" were the words that began his dinner party toasts. "A warm goodbye" was what he insisted on as he realized the end was near. His final visits with friends and family were full of laughter and warmth because in his words, he was so "(F-bomb) lucky" to have had such an amazing life. On his desk were the framed words, "All things are possible"-the theme of his life, relationships, and career.
Len was genuinely interested in even the most casual of acquaintances and charmed everyone who crossed his path. His sense of humor was as boundless as his outside-the-box way of thinking. His takes on the world and people were always shrewd and hilarious. His memory was astonishingly sharp and only improved with age. He loved tennis, photography, cooking, taking classes at U of C, discussing books, movies, and politics. In his later years he wrote a memoir and treatise about the right to die with dignity. His quest for knowledge was an integral part of him.
His life mantra: when you love someone you show up. And did he ever. Here is an abbreviated list of those recipients:
His wife and love Phyllis, whom he credited with the success of their deeply connected marriage. She calls him her life force. He was Daddy/Hero/ Biggest Cheering Squad/Always Excited Picker Upper of phone calls from his daughters Laura (Jim) and Nancy (former spouse, Scott). He was a loving and involved stepfather to David (Karen) and Patricia (Art). And perhaps his most treasured title: "Zaide," to Lani (Steve), Sam, and Alex; and later to Ari, Noah, Sara, and Michael. He was their fun, their stuffed mushrooms chef, their career advisor, and inspiration.
His career path: a trailblazer. After years in retail, at age 68 he decided to become a financial advisor. He was hired by Morgan Stanley and approached at age 80 by UBS, where he finished his career. He worked full time through his 92nd year. Another important person to mention is his partner, Brian Kenney, who became like a son.
Len had a vast talent for joy and connectedness. For those lucky enough to have been loved and coveted by this man, the loss will be forever filled by his undying impact and those cherished goodbyes.
Memorial Service, Monday, November 8, 2021 at 1:30 PM at Shalom Memorial Funeral Home, 1700 W. Rand Road, Arlington Heights. For information including a link to view the service, shiva or to leave condolences: Shalom Memorial Funeral Home, www.shalom2.com or (847) 255-3520.