Leonard John Kahny

Leonard John Kahny, 103, died on November 19, 2014, after a brief illness. He was a resident of Otterbein-Middletown for the past several years. A native of Cincinnati's north end, he was born on June 25, 1911, to Clifford and Edith Bridges Kahny. While working at an insurance office in the city he attended three years of night school and graduated from Hughes High School. In 1934 he signed a contract to play shortstop with the Cincinnati Reds. Two years later he was a 'hot prospect' and swinging an autographed "Len Kahny" Louisville Slugger bat. In 1936 he played with the Durham Bulls in the North Carolina Piedmont League. In November of that year he married Helen Smith Hanner, a student nurse he met while playing with the Mt. Airy Reds. In 1940 he joined Aeronca Manufacturing in Middletown and retired as Purchasing Agent in 1975. He began picture framing to accommodate his wife's collection of antique prints. This hobby soon turned into a full-time venture. He taught this craft for many years at the Middletown Arts Center where he also volunteered. In 1983 he and Helen helped form the Art Committee at the Middletown Library where he was Treasurer of the Friends until recently. After 22 years as a volunteer driver for the Red Cross, he reluctantly retired at the age of 98. He often spoke of his favorite volunteer position as assistant in the nursery of Oasis Church. He retained a fondness for the children as they passed from his arms into the youth ministry. He was blessed with many friends -- young and old -- during his life. He was preceded in death by his wife Helen in 1988 and a sister in 1968. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law (Michaele and Edward Malkowicz). On many occasions Len asked that upon his passing, there be no formal service and that persons wishing to pay their respects do so by remembering him in their thoughts and prayers. The family is honoring his request at this time; however, there may be a memorial service in December. Memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of the Middletown Library, the Middletown Arts Center, Oasis Church, the Red Cross, Otterbein of Middletown or a charity of your choice.

Funeral Home:
Wilson-Schramm-Spaulding
3805 Roosevelt Blvd.
Middletown, OH
US 45044