Kenneth Jay Leap, Jr. (Kenny, to many of us) passed away on November 13, 2009. He had a long, productive life, filled with curiosity, passion, drive, and love, and most definitely left way too soon. We know that all of you are thinking of him right now, and Regina has asked me (Kenny's sister-in-law) to set up this site so that you can share some of those thoughts with us and with each other. Any comments are welcome and appreciated, but in particular we want to collect and preserve some of your specific memories of him, so that his children have a more complete view of him to carry with them as they grow up. The intent is to gather these all into a book, adding any photos, artwork, or other items that people feel inspired to contribute. Private comments are also welcome; those and photos can be emailed to me (polly_goldman@yahoo.com) for inclusion with the rest.
Let us know how you knew Ken, when and where you met him, and any particular memories you have that stick out in your mind. For myself, the image that keeps coming back is a photo I have of Ken shooting down a snow-covered hill on a tarp on his belly, arms and legs up, mouth open, letting fate take over his destination for a short time. I need to find that photo.
For all of you reading this: please remember that life is precious and unpredictable, and to savor every bit of it with compassion, love, and joy.
Much love,
Polly (and Regina, Barbara, Ken Sr., and Jim)
My name is Tony Caruana and I am Ken’s nephew. I remember when he came into our family more than 20 years ago. This kids loved him! He fit in so well with our family and we all were ecstatic when he married my Aunt Regina. I still remember playing maracas at the reception! I have so many fond memories with my Uncle Ken that a novel couldn’t tell them all. I’d have to say some of the most prevalent memories were from our trips to Portales, whether it be with my family or just the cousins. So many fun times! A couple memories that stick out for me were swinging on the dual swing in Springer, NM and when Uncle Ken stuck a wooden spoon in the blender while we were making iceys. Splinter slurpies! I would also like to share how proud of him I am, not only for all his achievements, his benevolence, and artwork, but for the excellent job he did raising their kids. Rest at ease Uncle Ken. You’re journey is over, but your legacy will live on forever!!
ReplyDeleteMy name is Jenny Leap and I am Kenny's neice.I have many, many, many, fond and loving memories of Uncle Kenny. I remember when I was little and we would get together for the Holidays and he would toss me in the air and then spin me. I would get so dizzy but I always said "Again, again". It was one of my favorite things and I couldn't wait between visits for him to do it again. I also remember the wrestling matches he and my Dad shared in. It was hilarious to watch them. Uncle Kenny would always win and Jim said it was because of his low center of gravity:) The times I got to go sailing with him were so much fun. He was so happy out on the water. I also loved the trips I took to Portales during the summer to stay with him and Aunt Regina. The trip to Las Cruces, the museum in Alamogordo, the thunder storm that came on suddenly one afternoon when we were making apple pies in the kitchen and the clap of thunder was right over head and so loud it shook the house. One time when he came to visit he did a presentation for my computer class in Jr. High school. All my classmates thought he was so cool. I have so many wonderful memories but these are the best ones. I am very sorry for the loss of a very vibrant and loving person. My heart aches for everyone who had the pleasure to know and love him. He will live on forever in our memories and our hearts.
ReplyDeleteLike Jenny, Fred and I remember watching Kenny wrestle with his brother Jim on their mother's living room floor, in their twenties. It seemed to be their way of saying "hello" after an absence from each other. They looked like a couple of bear cubs. Kenny took us sailing too, on SF bay, and stopped at Angel Island, which we have returned to many times (by ferry), a favorite place to hike, a favorite place from which to view SF. I think Kenny must have shown many of us new perspectives, new vista points. We knew him as Jim's brother, the designer of the fan (and misting?) system in Jim's greenhouse when he farmed on Locan Ave. in Fresno, the wind surfer while a student at San Jose State, the meterologist who new which tv weahermen were full of hot air and which ones knew their science, the artist who created the glass sculpture in Jim and Polly's house--an image of agricultural fields for his farmer brother. Favorite memory (from the too few contacts): a birthday dinner for Jim at their mother's house, a reunion of the brothers, gentle teasing of their mother throughout the meal, ending with their boyish tribute to her culinary skills. They each picked up their empty dessert dishes, grinned at each other across the table and licked them clean.
ReplyDeleteFrom the Portales News-Tribune obituary guest book (part 1):
ReplyDeleteNovember 17, 2009
Dear Regina, Jessica, and Christopher,
We are so sorry to learn to the loss of your beloved, Ken. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Tracy C. and Mark Dal Porto
November 17, 2009
We are deeply saddened by the loss of our friend Ken and remember his creative, energetic, and thoughtful life with admiration. We will be holding Regina and the children much in our thoughts in days to come.
Michael Sitton and Mark Martin
~
Michael Sitton,
Potsdam, New York
From the Portales News-Tribune obituary guest book (part 2):
ReplyDeleteNovember 17, 2009
Dear Regina, Jessica and Christopher,
You continue to be in our daily prayers and loving thoughts. When we first met Ken, we were naturally drawn to him, as he possessed both a scientific mind and a highly creative and unique artistry. He so kindly invited us to your home to better understand the process of his art and we also enjoyed seeing the boat he was building. We will miss his friendship greatly, and remain your friends, ready and willing to help whenever you may need anything.
With great love,
Kayla and Jason Paulk
~
Kayla Paulk,
Portales, New Mexico
November 17, 2009
Ken was a former student of mine at ENMU and the thought of this vibrant, caring soul no longer on Earth makes me cringe and shake my head. The world is lessened by the loss of Ken and his duties as father, husband, educator and artist.
November 17, 2009
Regina and Family,
We were saddened to hear of Ken's death, we will miss him dearly. He was a very good and caring friend. Freddy and Elisa admired Ken and all his work he brought into our eyes. He was a great artist indeed, he was also a devoted husband and father. We will keep all of you in our prayers.
~
Olympia & Fred Chino,
Portales, New Mexico
November 18, 2009
Ken was a wonderful dad (that was obvious to anyone who saw him with his children). His art provided great pleasure to anyone who was fortunate enough to see it. I recall with great pleasure my children running around ENMU's campus years ago, and peering through the "windows" of his sculpture - as little kids, they loved that. Bill and I ate lunch with Ken a number of times, and the conversation was never dull! I will miss his smile, his engaging personality, and the kindness that was so evident. Our family is deeply sorry, and we send our love to you. We are here now, and you can count on us in the future.
Bill, Gillian, Goeffrey, and Will
~
Gillian Andersen,
Portales, New Mexico
From the Portales News-Tribune obituary guest book (part 3):
ReplyDeleteNovember 18, 2009
Dear Dr. Aragon, Jessica, and Christopher, I am so sorry about the loss of your beloved husband and father. I'm a former student of Dr. Aragon's and I've often witnessed the love and closeness of your family when I'd see you around town. I pray that you will find peace and comfort in the arms of God. You will be in my prayers. Donna B. (Portales)
November 18, 2009
Dear Regina,
I only met ken a few times but I was struck by his intelligence and wonderful creativity. He was a fine man and a creative force.
Dave Berry
November 18, 2009
Dear Regina, Jessica, and Christopher,
It seems as if the world has become a little less brighter without the light of your husband/father to shine through. We will all miss seeing him around, whether it is through his work or the laughter and cheers that I heard during the Saturday games. Know that we're always thinking of you all at this time and we hope that you can find comfort.
With love to all,
Sabrina, Alex, Somer and Ashley
~
Sabrina Rhoads,
Portales, New Mexico
November 18, 2009
Regina - I am so very sorry for your loss. Ken was such a nice man and caring father. I am sure that Ken's gentle spirit will watch over you and your family. His creation of so many wonderful things will inspire others for many years to come. Isabell Walla
~
Isabell Walla,
Clovis, New Mexico
November 18, 2009
Dear Regina, Jessica and Christopher,
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers today and always.
God Bless you.
Love, Troy, Maxine, Jonathan and Ashley
From the Portales News-Tribune obituary guest book (part 4):
ReplyDeleteNovember 19, 2009
Our deepest condolences to the Leap family. Ken’s light will always shine in our memories of his enthusiasm and inspiration. I had the pleasure of working with him at NOAA in Boulder, and then after so long, ran into him at the Loveland Sculpture Exhibit in 2006. My family and I were awed at the technical process he used to create those beautiful pieces that refracted light in all directions. My grandson was so excited about Ken’s art that he asked for an interview for an article he was writing on art and metal crafting. Ken was very gracious and we appreciated his generosity. Last week I ran across a picture he'd given us of his sculpture “Vorticity,” and was thinking about him and his genius. God bless. Nita and Rod Fullerton (Westminster, CO)
November 20, 2009
Regina;
I was so sad to hear of Ken's passing. He was a fine artist and good friend and he lives on through his art. He was a kind man and we will miss him dearly. My prayers and thoughts will be with you and your family in the coming days.
Nathan McCreery, Clovis
November 20, 2009
Regina,Jessi,& Christopher,We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved husband & father. Kenneth was obviously a very loving husband and father,which was evident in how he lived his life and how he allways so graciously invited us to your home and visited with us everytime we would bring Olivia over to spend the night with Jessi, I know that Olivia allways felt very comfortable and at home everytime she slept over, Ken will truly be missed by our family. Our prayers are with you guys, Johnny, Martha, Olivia & Mackenzie Garcia. (ISAIAH 41:10,13
Regina, Jessica, and Christopher,
ReplyDeleteYour friends at ENUUF Fellowship lit a candle for your family today during "Joys and Concerns."
What a joy Ken brought to the world.
Thinking of you, Chris and Lisa Harrell
Though some of my thoughts and remembrances of Ken are already recorded below in the transcription of the Portales News-Tribune guest book entry my husband, Jason, and I made on November 17, 2009, I felt I should add a postscript following the beautiful memorial service we had for Ken yesterday afternoon. What a blessing it was to sit in the Zia Room and share memories and feelings with so many who loved Ken so deeply. Ken's numerous friends from childhood in California, the Boulder chapter of his life (which included NOAA colleagues and friends of all ages/walks of life) and his recent years in Portales presented each of us with aspects of Ken with which we were familiar and myriad dimensions of his being we may never before have known. From his fourth grade friends speaking of lifelong friendships to the elderly gentleman who encouraged him to pursue his relationship with Regina to a Portales friend he supported at the time of his wife's unexpected death, we were all presented with new stories about Ken, but none that surprised us. We all knew him as a man of integrity, a great teacher, listener and friend, and will always cherish how much better he made our lives.
ReplyDeleteI must also add what a joy it was to meet the Leap and Aragon families, as well as the many friends in attendance this weekend. To meet Ken's brother, Jim, and learn of his high level of artistry (mandolin and guitar), shared also with his sister, Emily (aerialist/trapeze artist), was such a joy. Having met Ken's Dad and Mom, I know the Leap family must certainly have built a creative environment for its children. Beyond the talents that exist in the family, though, I found most endearing my time shared on Friday evening and Saturday speaking with each one of them - immediate family as well as in-laws and friends. I have a great assurance that Regina, Jessica and Christopher will be emboldened and uplifted in the coming difficult days by the love and care of this wonderful network of people.
Kayla Paulk
Vocal Coach/Accompanist
Eastern New Mexico University
kayla.paulk@enmu.edu
575/562.2571
As we sat at the dinner table, my family was discussing the untimely loss of Ken and sharing our memories. My husband and son, Kenny and Spencer, were in Tae kwon Do with Ken and the kids. Being senior belts, they were often in the position of being Ken's teachers. My husband, Kenny, shared that he always enjoyed the conversations that he had with Ken and appreciated his enthusiasm and intellect. My son, Spencer, appreciated Ken's desire to learn the art of TKD and enjoyed watching him as he helped his children learn the craft. I had the pleasure of meeting Ken at Valencia elementary when Jessica was attending here. He would come to pick her up after school each day and he always greeted me with his quick and easy smile. But his whole being would light up as soon as his child was in his sight. It was obvious that he cherished his family! I always enjoyed visiting with him and sharing a simple lighthearted moment that would end my work day on a happy note. Ken was a good, good man! I am thankful for the opportunity to have known him.
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts and prayers are with all his family.
Sincerely,
Katrina Prince
I am Melanie...a former partner of Jim's and "family" to Rebecca and Jenny. I remember how much Jim lit up when speaking of Ken--their childhoods together, an upcoming visit, or Ken's amazing talents. An image that is so easy to conjure of Ken is his smiling face; laughing eyes; and strong, stocky presence. I remember him walking down a path at the UCSC Farm and Garden, on his way to be a guest lecturer for Jim (on weather, I believe), and being struck at how much intelligence, humor and gaiety he possessed.
ReplyDeleteI also recall when Regina was pregnant hearing Ken talk about how much he was going to accomplish as a "stay at home" Dad...and then being struck by how much work was involved. Of course, he really did go on to so many accomplishments. I am so saddened and sorry for Ken's early departure, but trust and hope his rich, full life and legacy provide solace and comfort to his children, family and friends.
With love, thoughts and prayers.
Melanie Mintz
Dear Regina, Jessica, and Christopher and all of Ken's many friends and admirers:
ReplyDeleteWe were all so lucky to have Ken in our lives. The part of him I treasure most is his incredible generosity. At ENMU, his beautiful "Metamorphosis" sculpture was only one measure of his artistry and talent. That piece is, and will remain, the best, the most professionally done and most meticulously installed art work at the University for all time.
Beyond that, though, Ken made the entire campus a better place for art. He taught wonderfully, of course. But he also contrived a fix for ENMU's standing sculpture "In the Loop" which saved that beautiful piece from toppling over. He generously helped Sue Wink, the artist of the "Nucleus" sculpture, to construct the twisted DNA "roof" so that it did NOT look like a jungle jim and it would not collapse. I don't think he got a cent for that! When we needed help with anything artistic, Ken was on my speed dial. He designed a foundation for the bronze Greyhound who stands in front of the Campus Union; then he found us a stoneworker to do the work. When "Dawg's" tail broke off (a casualty of partying students), Ken figured out how to repair the piece and put us in contact with the only foundry in New Mexico that could do the work. They did it, for Ken.
It is not how we leave this world that is important. It is how we changed the world while we were here. Ken changed my world. I miss him every single day. I know we all do.
Thank you, family, for sharing him with all of us.
Patrice
I'm a neighbor & friend of Ken's aunt, Mary Jo. Bob & I had the pleasure of sitting across from Ken, Regina, Chris & Jess a couple of years ago, when everyone came out to Escondido for "Miss Mary Jo's Big Birthday Bash". We found we shared a hatred of Wal Mart(!)& a love all things related to nature & hiking & reading. We so enjoyed talking to Ken & Regina! And we've always remembered Ken's keen intelligence & sense of humour, & his profound love for his family and the earth. We are saddened by his passing, & can only hold Kenny & Regina & all of his family in our prayers. Love never dies.
ReplyDelete- Nancy Gilbert & Bob Walker