LeRoy Zenker, age 97, of Soquel, California, passed away peacefully at home on May 1, 2026. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, LeRoy's life was defined by hard work, care for his family, and a commitment of service to the community.

Born May 24, 1928, in Streeter, North Dakota, LeRoy was the son of Edward Zenker and Mathilda Dockter. After serving briefly in the Navy, he joined his father and brother running a local hardware store in North Dakota. He met his future wife, Colleen Baldwin, shortly thereafter, and they were married in 1949.

An opportunity to purchase a hardware store in Watsonville arose in 1962. The three families—his parents and his brother's family included—moved to California to start anew. Known for decades as Zenker's Hardware—and later Ace Hardware—the store served the Pajaro Valley's vast farming community and stood as a downtown Watsonville cornerstone on Main Street. It was a true family business as LeRoy and Colleen managed the store together, along with their devoted employees and children, for more than 25 years. Shortly after moving to California, LeRoy and Colleen founded Christ Lutheran Church in Aptos. LeRoy was a proud member of the Lions Club in Watsonville and served in numerous leadership positions in the California Retail Hardware Association.

After selling the business and retiring, LeRoy and Colleen's lives revolved around family, especially being grandparents. Lovingly known as "Poppi," LeRoy always became animated in the presence of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved the outdoors, and the family was fortunate to live on Pinto Lake in Watsonville for more than four decades. Their retirement in this serene home offered beauty and wildlife, a sanctuary for their grandsons to grow and flourish.

He is survived by his daughter, Debbie; his son, Keith, and daughter-in-law, Libby; his sons, Jeffrey and David (John); his grandsons, Matthew, Bryan, Connor, and Caden; and his great-grandsons, Maverick and Michael. LeRoy's wife of 76 years, Colleen, passed away in January of this year after a short illness.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Santa Cruz Hospice for helping make it possible for LeRoy to pass comfortably and peacefully at home. A private funeral service for the family will be held at their home church, Christ Lutheran Church in Aptos, at a later date. Instead of flowers, donations may be made to Christ Lutheran Church at 10707 Soquel Drive, Aptos.