Contributions to the tribute of Nelson B. Leenhouts

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Ann Scott posted a condolence

Monday, August 19, 2024

We lived next door to Nelson & Nancy in Rochester until we moved to Rhode Island in late 2006. Nelson was not only an unbelievable philanthropist, but an extraordinary human being. He was always interested in the other person, and always very positive about people. I still get the daily news headlines from the Rochester paper and saw that Nelson had passed away. He will be very much missed by so many people--what a wonderful, generous man. Our deepest sympathy to Nelson's family. Ann & Jim Scott eannscott56@gmail.com

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Apostle Linda Strickland-Wyatt uploaded photo(s)

Thursday, August 15, 2024

Church of Life Ministries Youth spent a blessed day at the farm with our friend Mr. Nelson! He will forever be in our hearts❤️

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Steve Freeman posted a condolence

Thursday, August 15, 2024

I began working with Nelson as his surety bond agent shortly after he founded Home Leasing. He was such a great man. He had a smile and kind word for everyone. What an honor to have known him. He was a role model for me and everyone else about how to live a good life. There aren’t many people who deserve to be called a pillar of the community, but Nelson was one of those rare people. His good heart coupled with his belief in servant leadership enabled him to do countless good works for people.

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Kris Rogers posted a condolence

Thursday, August 15, 2024

My memories of Nelson always include him smiling. He loved life, his family and his work. The word "retirement" was not in his vocabulary. His vision and mission continues in his children and grandchildren. Sending love and hugs to Cathy, Megan, Sarah and the rest of Nelson's legacy.

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Kimberly Russell Pier uploaded photo(s)

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

I remember Nelson as a mentor, servant leader and humanitarian. He recruited me to be part of the “Dream Team” in the very early days of Home Leasing with the Voters Block community on Main Street. We initially met at Spiritus Christi as parishioners- whiich led the company to form an enduring partnership with the Spiritus Christi Prison Outreach ministry. Dozens of residents have, and continue to, benefit from this relationship. Our community is better for it. Nelson was a driving force in launching Connected Communities in the Beechwood and EMMA neighborhoods in the city. He championed the Purpose Built Community model of holistic neighborhood development including mixed income housing, cradle to college education, health and wellness, and economic vitality. I was honored to be a partner with him on that journey. Nelson provided a strong foundation for the family business. May his family find solace in the love he had for them and strength in carrying on the legacy he leaves.

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Vanessa Villeneuve posted a condolence

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

I have had the pleasure of knowing Nelson for the past 19 years. I met him when I was 22 and just getting into my career of architecture. Nelson always brought me into the conversation and would ask what I thought. He went out of his way to both challenge me and help empower me. Home Leasing giving my team the opportunity to work on Harper's Corner this past year is truly a dream realized for me. Seeing that building on the way into work as an intern architect kept me going every day with the reminder of what I was working toward; if only... one day maybe I can make a difference and do something to change the center of this community. Over the years I watched and often participated in Nelson's visions of helping to transform communities, one location at a time, providing quality, affordable housing; a place that people can be proud to call home. This drive and desire to help others is within me too. That's probably why we got along so well. He was encouraging and overjoyed for me when I started my own business. He always asked me how things were going and was genuinely interested in knowing. I am so grateful that I was able to see Nelson at the groundbreaking for Harper's Corner and I'm also glad for that extra hug I asked him for before he left. If I ever get a sense of imposter syndrome, I will remember the last thing that Nelson told me when we were talking about my business and its success; that there is no one more deserving. While there is no way that can be factually true, knowing that he believed in me and believed that to be true in our moment of speech is certainly enough for me. To say I will miss him is an understatement. I know my experience is not unique and that he meant so much to so many people. My hope is that collectively we can carry on his legacy of kindness, encouragement, and empowerment and all make him proud.

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Stephanie Fowler Benson Posted Aug 14, 2024 at 7:27 PM

So well said Vanessa and so true. I am saddened at our collective loss.

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April Lee-Horsey posted a condolence

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

I have had the pleasure of being part of the Home Leasing Team for 7 years. Nelson was an absolute blessing, and he will be missed greatly by all. My condolences to his family.

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Shawn D. Hogan Posted Aug 14, 2024 at 3:29 PM

I worked with Nelson on the Lincoln Gardens project, a conversion of an old neighborhood school in Hornell, NY. A great project with a great company lead by a great visionary . A kind, compassionate man , looking to open doors not build walls. May he Rest In Peace

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Bob Spitulnik posted a condolence

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

I had the pleasure of working with Nelson for 5 years. No one ever worked for him. He made every employee feel like family and always had a kind word and handshake for every person in the company. I have never respected a man more than Nelson and treasure the opportunity I had to be around him. My sincerest condolences to the entire family.

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The family of Nelson B. Leenhouts uploaded a photo

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

Nelson B. Leenhouts

1935 - 2024

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