Kenneth B. Leerstang

Kenneth B. Leerstang was born October 3, 1939 in Ada, Oklahoma. His parents were longtime building contractor Walter G. Leerstang and homemaker Ruby (Bollinger) Leerstang of Ada, OK. Ken passed away at his home on Thursday, February 23, 2017 in Norman.

Ken graduated from Ada High School. He studied at East Central University and graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Arts degree. After graduation from O.U. he continued his study of music at the New England Conservatory in Boston, Massachusetts. He was an accomplished musician on many instruments as well as an artist. Ken discovered his love of music in High School while sitting in his room at home listening to Miles Davis resulting in him becoming an avid jazz fan.

Ken taught band in Pernell and Wynnewood, OK before going to work for Jenkins Music in 1963. In 1971 Ken and his two partners bought the Jenkins Music Store in Oklahoma City and added the Lowry Organ Center. Ken later became the sole owner of the Jenkins Music Store in Midwest City, OK. He was well known across the state for his work with music programs in many Oklahoma school districts and putting musical instruments in the hands of budding musicians. He retired in December 2014, after 50 years of retail music business.

Ken loved serving the Lord. He was very active in his church by leading worship and serving as an elder at Riverside Church. More recently he was a founding member and an active worship team member at the Calling Church in Norman.

Survivors include his wife, Joy Leerstang of the home; one daughter, Lorrie Carruth; three sons, Mike Shebester, Mark Shebester and David Leerstang and wife Chrystal; nine grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; one sister, Nita Hunt and husband Ray; and many nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation (family will receive friends) 6:00PM to 8:00PM, Tuesday, February 28 at Tribute Memorial Care (708 24th Ave. NW, Suite 300, Norman, OK). Celebration of Life Services will be held, 10:00AM, Wednesday, March 1 at Journey Church (3801 Journey Parkway, Norman, OK).