Leonard Harold “Len” Motze
OBITUARY
Leonard Harold “Len” Motze, affectionately known as Lenny, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026, in Shillington, Pennsylvania, at the age of 92.
Born on December 1, 1933, in Reading, Pennsylvania, Len was the beloved son of Miriam and Harold Motze. He graduated from Reading High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force. Len completed four years of active duty and four years in the reserves as an airplane mechanic. His service took him to Texas, Florida, and Missouri—where he developed a lifelong passion for the St. Louis Cardinals.
Following his military service, Len began his professional career with a brief tenure at Narrow Fabrics before dedicating the majority of his working life to Carpenter Steel/Technology as a skilled machinist. His strong work ethic and commitment to excellence were hallmarks of his long career.
Len married Joan Krick, with whom he shared thirty cherished years until her passing in 1994. Together they built a loving home in Lincoln Park, where Len resided for nearly six decades. Len is survived by his sister, Jacqueline Hugill, of Simpsonville, SC. He was a devoted father to three daughters: Dianne Versak (William), Debra Gehr (David), and Melissa Czerpak (Christopher). His legacy continues through his grandchildren- Alexandra Masker (Steven), Abigail Greenblatt (Noah), Adam Gehr, Caroline Czerpak, Andrew Czerpak and Rebecca Czerpak- and great-grandchildren Leni and Adrian, with one more on the way. Len is also survived by his long-time friend and companion, Ruth Peiffer, of Sinking Spring. Additionally, he was known as the ‘fun’ uncle to many nieces and nephews.
A man of many interests and deep community involvement, Len found joy in simple pleasures and meaningful connections. He loved fishing and bowling and was an avid baseball fan who rarely missed a chance to cheer on the Cardinals and the Phillies. One of his greatest joys was supporting his children and grandchildren in all of their activities and was a constant presence.
Summers were especially vibrant for Len at the Lincoln Park Pool. There he actively participated in swim meets and volleyball leagues, splashed around with neighborhood kids, and served as a dedicated board member helping maintain the pool and its grounds. His presence brought warmth and laughter to countless summer days.
Len was a member of St. John’s Reformed Church in Sinking Spring.
Those who knew Len remember him as a gentle soul with a joyful personality that left an indelible mark on everyone he met. He wore many hats during his long life- son, brother, husband, dad, Pop Pop, uncle- and filled each role with love and dedication.
Len also gave generously to multiple charities including children’s hospitals, Veteran support groups and the SPCA.
He is preceded in death by his wife Joan Motze; his mother Miriam Motze; and his father Harold Motze.
May Leonard’s memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire kindness for generations to come.
Special thanks to the caring staff at the Heritage of Green Hills Personal Care and Bayada Hospice.
Services will be private. The Sanders Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 1501 North 11th St., Reading is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.sandersfuneral.com.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Main Line Animal Rescue, 1149 Pike Springs Road, Phoenixville PA 19460.