Leon Gerald Jarvis

Born April 2nd, 1958, in Dearborn, Michigan, a son of Darcy and Dolores (Fillion) Jarvis, Leon was raised in Dearborn, where he attended and graduated from Fordson High School in 1976. He continued his education at St. Mary’s College. For a time, Leon was employed as a maitre d in one of Detroit’s upscale Greek restaurants, serving such well known regular guests as Aretha Franklin, Mayor Coleman Young, Governor James Blanchard, and Lee Iacocca.

He later entered St. Benedict Monastery in Oxford, Michigan, where he was professed as Brother Bonifas, OSB, during which time he also studied for the Catholic priesthood. Following ten years in religious life, Leon was released from his vows and left the monastery. He sincerely desired to remain in religious life, but also wanted a family.

On December 24th, 1988, Leon was united in marriage to Lesa Bozek and together the couple raised two daughters, Emma and Erin. In 1989, Leon and Lesa moved to Marquette, where Leon enrolled in the Northern Michigan University School of Nursing. After receiving his certification as a licensed practical nurse, Leon was employed at Marquette County Medical Care Facility. He then began an over 20 year career at Marquette General Hospital. After fulfilling the requirements for ordination, Leon was ordained an Episcopal priest in the MGH Conference Room by Episcopal Bishop, James Kelsey. For over 18 years, Leon served as hospital chaplain at Marquette General Hospital, training volunteers, visiting patients, counselling families, comforting the dying, and caring for those who died. He was always prepared to comfort the dying and the dead were always prayed over before they left the hospital. Additionally, he was often the sounding board and compassionate listening ear for hospital staff. Throughout the years, he officiated at countless weddings and funerals and served many congregations in an interim capacity. He was well known for his personal and outgoing style. He retired from MGH in March 2018 and began employment with Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services as a funeral and preneed counselor. Most recently, Leon expanded his career, serving with UP Home Health and Hospice as volunteer and Bereavement Coordinator.

Over the years, Leon continually expanded his interest in theology, history (especially the British monarchy), fine dining, and jazz, all of which he was more than willing to share with family and friends.

Leon is survived by his partner, David Dagenais of Marquette; daughters, Emma A. Bozek-Jarvis of Washington, D.C. and Erin M. Bozek-Jarvis of Des Moines, IA, and their mother, Lesa A. Bozek of New Bern, NC; his sister, Cecilia A. (Leland) Ladd of Fenton, MI and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Leon was preceded in death by his siblings, Jay L. Jarvis and Darcy L. Jarvis, Jr.

Services were held at Messiah Lutheran Church.

Memorials may be directed to the Human Rights Campaign or charity of donor’s choice.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online, and an obituary viewed, at fassbenderswansonhans en.com.