Leonard Edwin Morris

Leonard Edwin Morris, affectionately known as Len, was born on April 13, 1937, in Port Arthur, Ontario, Canada. He passed away peacefully at home in North Tustin, California, on July 26, 2025, after a short illness, surrounded by some of his loving family.

Len’s journey began when he moved to California from Canada in November of  1956 to pursue a promising career at General Telephone Company (GTE). On a vacation back to Canada in August of  1959, he met and fell in love with Carol Runholm. They married in December 1959. Len and Carol raised 2 daughters-Ingrid and Lynne primarily in Cypress California. In retirement they moved to Sun City/Menifee California from 1995 till 2024.

Initially starting as a lineman, his dedication and passion for his work propelled him through the ranks, leading to positions as a test board operator and supervisor, eventually becoming an analyst for the 5ESS Switch. He took immense pride in his work and instilled a strong work ethic in his daughters, an enduring legacy that will live on in them. Len enjoyed many great friendships at GTE over his long career and loved to tell his family stories of his linemen days.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Len cherished spending quality time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who brought him endless joy. The bonds he shared with them were special; he dedicated himself to teaching them valuable skills, whether it was building, repairing, or simply showing them how to tackle challenges with creativity and determination. Len had countless stories of each of his grandchildren he would share which was so special to each of them. Always keeping a pen in his shirt pocket just in case, he was a man whose resourcefulness and willingness to help others defined him.

Len’s spirit was characterized by his genuine interest in connecting with people; he truly "didn’t know a stranger." His post-retirement years were enriched by community service alongside his dear friend Don, where they engaged in fencing projects and other jobs that strengthened their neighborhood ties. Moreover, Len was actively involved with Faith Lutheran Church in Menifee, CA, where he contributed his time through usher duties and participation on the property committee. The church shows the efforts of his work in beautification projects and problem solving to make things better for the Pastor and members of the congregation.

In addition to his commitment to his work and community, Len and his beloved wife Carol created a lifetime of wonderful memories traveling together, often to Canada and Ohio, making numerous stops to visit cherished friends across the country. Their adventures included countless fun trips to Las Vegas, visiting Canadian cousins whom he adored, and enjoying the occasional Blue Moon together in the comfort of each other's company. One of the fondest memories we have is a trip to Germany in 2012 with his daughters, son in law and wife Carol. Len was able to see his Mom's birthplace as well as see cousins who live in Germany.

Len is survived by his two daughters, Ingrid Galyan and her husband Michael, Lynne Cuevas and her husband Dave Ludwig. He was a loving grandfather to five grandchildren: Travis Galyan, Taylor Wijemanne (Galyan) and her husband Davinda, Andrew Cuevas and his wife Emily, Anthony Cuevas and his wife Agnes, and Natalie Cuevas. He also leaves behind eight great-grandchildren: Vireo and Ani Burkey, Ethan, Jacob, and Joshua Cuevas, Oliva, Julian and Lyla Wijemanne who were all lovingly embraced by their Opa Len. Fortunately, he got to meet them all.

He was predeceased by his mother Hilda Morris-Hewitt, father William Morris, brother Bill, and many loving aunts and uncles, his son-in-law Ray Cuevas and countless friends who welcomed him into their arms in everlasting peace with his lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

As his family and friends reflect upon the beautiful life Len lived, they will remember him for his kindness, generosity, singer of songs, love of cribbage, poker and card playing and unwavering dedication to those he loved. His legacy will continue to resonate through the hearts he touched and the lessons he imparted, reminding us all to embrace each moment with love and joy and an occasional Blue Moon to cheers.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025 at the home of Ingrid & Michael Galyan. A memorial  in Len's name  has been created at Faith Lutheran Church for the property committee. If you would like to contribute checks can be mailed to Faith Lutheran Church  28200 Portsmouth Dr, Menifee, CA 92586 and please note his name.