John L Lehsten II

John L. Lehsten II, 65, of Temperance, Michigan, passed away on November 23, 2025. Born on November 10, 1960 in Toledo to John and Margaret Lehsten, John grew up with a sharp mind, a big personality, and drive that would guide him throughout his life. He graduated from Whitmer High School in 1978 and spent his life building a legacy grounded in devotion, hard work, and unwavering love for his family and friends. In 1985, John married the love of his life, Cheryl, beginning a 40-year marriage filled with laughter, loyalty, and a home that was always full. Together, they raised eight children: Amanda (Jason) Plum, Meaghan (Jamie) Brower, John Lehsten III (Melissa Keaton), Patrick (Adrienne) Lehsten, Sarah Lehsten, Ethan Lehsten, Emma Lehsten, and Ella Lehsten. Their house was rarely quiet, and John preferred it that way. He also welcomed countless “bonus kids” over the years, treating each one as family. John spent most of his life on the road as a truck driver, later becoming a Driver Supervisor for Ryder Logistics. His years behind the wheel made him a human almanac—if you were lost, all you needed to do was call John, give him a couple of landmarks, and he could tell you exactly where you were and how to get where you needed to go. His work ethic was unmatched, and he earned deep respect from everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him. A man of many passions, John was an avid marksman who shared a love of guns and shooting with his boys. He had a lifelong fascination with cars and trucks and was an extraordinary mechanic who could fix anything—often meeting his children on the side of the road at all hours of the night to get them going again. Larger than life and never having met a stranger, he filled every room with energy, humor, and heart. John treasured his role as a grandfather to Bradlie, John, Owen, Michael, Ryan, Abel, Hailey, and Emily. His grandchildren brought him endless pride and joy. He loved watching them grow and excel in their interests; they were a bright light in his life and he loved being their "Papa." John adored his Great Dane, Otto, who now wanders the house searching for him. He loved grilling, taking great pride in a perfectly seared steak with potatoes and grilled asparagus. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Margaret Lehsten; his brothers, Tom Lehsten and Jim Lehsten; and his beloved son, John Leonard Lehsten III, whose loss left a profound and lasting ache in his heart. John’s life was defined by love—love for his family, for his friends, for his work, and for the many people who found a home in the warmth of his presence. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew him. Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 30 from 1pm to 5pm at Ansberg-West Funeral Home, located at 3000 W. Sylvania Ave., Toledo. Services will follow, beginning at 5pm.

John L Lehsten II

November 10, 1960 - November 23, 2025