I attended SWJH from 1993-1995 (BDHS Class of 1998 with his daughter Christy). Mr. Cressman was truly one of my favorite teachers! He definitely made gym class fun and really pushed us to be fit. He was always one of those personable teachers you could always talk to. Cheers to one of the great educators in our schools. Sending my condolences to the Cressman Family. Cherie Wardell Commissiong

To The Cressman Family: Just wanted you to know that Mr.Cressman was not only respected but loved by all who knew him as a teacher,friend,and some-one that always had a smile for everyone!!! I was a student of his at Ben Davis Jr.High and at South Wayne Jr.High,the first year it was opened... We all had a blast that year!! Mr.Cressman I salute you!! You were a GREAT MAN!It is a very sad time for all of us! My prayers are with your family.I am so glad you had happiness in your life, you gave so much happiness to others..

Hey Barb, after hearing all of the wonderful comments at the service today, the thought that came to me was, "its not the quantity but the quality of time that you spend with a person that really matters most," and you were fortunate enough to enjoy both. Amidst the pain, heartache, and tears don't EVER forget about the many special memories. You're in my thoughts and prayers. Pam

Our deepest sympathies. Fond memories from BPHS Class of '63 and Len's great sense of humor. Bruce

South Wayne

I was shocked to learn of Lenny passing. Although we drifted apart over time and miles, I always considered him to be one of my best friends over time, not to mention serving as my best man. Please accept my deepest condolences.

Barb, my prayers and love are with you and your family. I know you have lots of love to surround you in you time of need. I'm glad we finally reconnected so I could get to know Len and your children. Bless all of you.

I was stunned to learn of Lenny's passing in the Indy Star yesterday. Although we had fallen out of touch over the years, we were fraternity brothers at Indiana State together and he has always been one of my all-time favorite people that I have met. We were both from western Pennsylvania when we were at ISU and I never forget one particular summer trip where we traveled back to Pittsburgh to see our beloved Pirates play a game in the early 70's. (you must remember that they were a great team in those days)! I am not too sure I have ever laughed so much in three days in my entire life. I will always remember Lenny's smile and wonderful sense of humor and the friendship we had in those years. On behalf of the 1555 members of LAMBDA CHI ALPHA at Indiana State, our condolences to Barbara and the entire Cressman family. He will be sadly missed.

Our heartfelt sympathy to Len's Wife, Family and close friends. Will remember you in our prayers.

Carol, and family, You have our sympathy in the loss of your brother, Leonard. It has been a long fight that he has been through and now, God has taken him from that pain. Still, it is very hard letting go. May sweet memories of your brother continue to warm your heart for a lifetime. Love, Pat and Carl Polito

To the Cressman Family: I just heard today about Mr. Cressman’s passing. My heart felt sympathy goes out to you all. I had Mr. Cressman while at South Wayne (in the late 70’s and early 80’s); he was by far my favorite teacher and was an inspiration to many of us. He was always tough but fair. I had several classes with him and can still recall many things he said. Though some classes were “just gym” classes, he always brought out life lessons in everything~~even basketball. I wish you all the warmest thoughts and prayers during this time and take heart that he made lasting impressions on many people~~me being one. Mika Hill, RN Seasons Hospice and Pallative Care Indianapolis, IN mhill@seasons.org

Mr. Cressman was one of my favorite teachers! He was great at making each student feel special and he had our respect. We always wanted to do our best around him! Gail (Dover) Bloom SWJH 76-79 BD Class of '82

We all have a special angel looking down on us today. I'm sure he will have the same concern and love for his friends, family and students now that he did in life. His suffering is over and we should all celebrate his wonderful memory. God bless the entire family!

IT MUST HAVE BEEN 1953 OR 54. BETHEL WAS BURSTING WITH BABY BOOMERS. LOTS OF YOUNG BOYS WITH TIME ON THEIR HANDS. MRS.SARBER SAW THE NEED AND HAD THE SOLUTION. DEN 7 WAS FORMED IN PACK 210 OF THE CUB SCOUTS OF AMERICA. EVERY WEEK WE WOULD MEET AT LENNY'S NEW HOUSE IN PARK MANOR. WE WOULD CARVE WOOD, MAKE CARDBOARD SKYSCRAPERS, OR TIE KNOTS. THERE WERE ONLY SIX OF US...ALL BUT ME FROM PARK MANOR. LENNY'S HOUSE WAS MAGICAL...NEW AND SHINY, WITH A BASEMENT MADE FOR YOUNG BOYS. WE NEVER MISSED A MEETING...WE NEVER TIRED OF LAUGHING... WE WERE AND ALWAYS WILL BE DEN 7... WE RELIVED THOSE MEMORIES AT HIGH SCHOOL REUNIONS, NON EVER FORGETTING...LENNY CRESSMAN, JOHN HEPLER, JIMMY RIPLEY, GORDEN DAVIDSON, C.J. SARBER AND ME.

My deepest sympathies on your loss. Len and I were classmates at BPHS, Class of 63.

My deepest sympathy to you Barbara and your family. Len was a great guy and one whom I really enjoyed working with. I would see him pretty regularly in our big school but he and I would kid about how I would see him everyday during girl's basketball season. What a great guy he was and I know he'll be missed.

Mr. Cressman you was a big help in my life. I will never forget you. You always pushed me to do what I wanted and I want you to know that I thank you from the bottom of my heart.. I will always miss you and you will always hold a special place in my heart. To the Family, I am truely sorry for your lost. He was very loved by the class of 2008. RIP Mr. Cressman!!

Mr. Cressman was my favorite teacher. When I was attended South Wayne Jr High (1976-79), he made me laugh on a daily basis. I still remember how he had signed my yearbook when I left," Good luck to the funny lady!" I am so sorry for his family's loss. He is rare and special, he would not only opened his ears to a student, but his heart as well. These days that is so hard to find anymore. Heaven is so lucky to have him.

Wonderful memories of Mr. Cressman as a teacher at South Wayne Jr. High School. He was certainly beloved to many. Wishes of peace and strength to his family during this difficult time.

I will always have all the special memories growing up with the most amazing father. No regrets only love. Now you have the peace you so deserved, I love you Dad.

My heart goes out to your family. I attended back in the 79-81. When they called it South Wayne. He was great teacher and a fine man. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are sent to you.

Len and I were classmates from junior high through graduation from Bethel Park High Senior School and then on to Indiana University of Pennsylvania. I remember his warm smile and engaging personality. Len was easy to relate to and always ready to share a laugh. I am grateful to learn of the full family life that he has lived. He will be sorely missed.

Although, we haven't taught together for about 16 years, I still remember Len fondly. I miss all of us sitting around shooting the breeze in the mornings before the kids came in and our days started, I remember fondly us all sitting in the hallway during passing periods, keeping an eye on the kids. Len was such a great guy and very kind hearted. God bless

Christy, I have good memories of spending time with your family. My deepest condolences for the loss of your dad. Your family is in my prayers. Sarah

With deepest sympathy to Len's family and dear friends. I will really miss Len and the wonderful times I had with Len and Barb. Len was a very special person who deeply touched so many people. We will all miss him. Fondly, Joan Haughn

My condolences to all Len's family and friends. He was my best friend since 1950 and I will miss him to my end of life. He gave some much of himself to benefit his students and the community. Love to all, John

Dear Family - I am so sorry for you loss, Mr. Cressman was a wonderful man, may he rest in peace.

Barb ~ you are such an inspiration. Although we have not had opportunities to get together, you are thought of often & many of my "stories" and life lessons involve you...in fact, I can't put on a turtleneck to this very day without smiling & thinking of you! I know Len was such an important part of your world & you both had so many plans after retiring & for that, I am deeply saddened. My girls remember meeting "Mack Daddy" who managed to leave a lasting impression with them, as he has with so many others. The days ahead may be stressful & empty, please know that you may call me at any time. You have such a remarkable presence in so many lives ~ please remember all of your friends & family that love you & let them help when you need it most. My heart goes out to you & your families. Always, Tina Perry

I have such wonderful memories of our camping trips and cookouts and I remember Len coming to our house early on a Saturday morning always happy and ready to get the day started. Len was an extraordinary man and he will be dearly missed. Love, Nikki

Len and my brother & I grew up together in Bethel Park, PA. John and Len maintained a very close relationship ever since. I shared that closeness although mostly via online communications. It is a comfort to know that Len is no longer in pain but he will still be sorely missed. My deepest sympathy to his family and friends.

My deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Cressman. He was my teacher at South Wayne JR. High School in 1971-1972. Mr. Cressman was a very good and stern teacher, that I remembered every year after. I thought I knew all there was to know, and he took the wind out of my sails and brought me back down to earth. (just what I needed at the time) I'll always remember the time he made my girlfriend and I write a book word by word. Almost two months of free study hall time, spend in his classroom. When we finished, he flipped thur it in a few seconds and tore them up in front of us. Talking about breaking your heart, lol. But we learned never to talk, and make faces in his class again. I loved Mr. Cressman, he was the best teacher, ever. I am so sorry that I never had a chance to tell him how great he was!! He will be missed.

TO BARB. AND FAMILY, THE JOY OF THE LORD IS YOUR STRENGTH. I OFFER MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES AND WILL KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IN MY PRAYERS.

My prayers and love are with you.

My prayers are with you and your family as I know how difficult this time is. Len is at peace now in Heaven and will always be your guardian angel.

MY PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. FUNNY HOW THINGS TURN OUT SOMETIMES ,HAD BEEN THINKING ABOUT YOU AND LEN ALL LAST WEEK ,KEPT SAYING I WAS GOING TO SEND AN EMAIL ,JUST TO LET YOU KNOW YOU WERE BOTH IN MY PRAYERS.(DON'T PUT OFF TOMORROW WHAT YOU CAN DO TODAY.)YOU AND LEN HAD A LOT OF GOOD TIMES AND LAUGHS TOGETHER AS I CAN REMEMBER.I DON'T THINK I EVER SAW LEN THAT HE WASN'T JOVIAL.MAY GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU. LOVE CHERYL

Hi ya Barb, Jess & Christine, I wanted to say how much I’ve enjoyed Len’s vivacious company. Everything he did was full of vigor and life! He never let up, he pumped energy into every room he entered and task he took on. I always think of him this way and smile. Barb, you, Jess, Christine, Cooper, Frances, Carol and the outlaws are in Jo’s and My Prayers. Love always Tuck & Jo,