Leland B. Cornell

Leland Benjamin Cornell, age 60, lifelong resident of Lowell, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Laurels of Kent nursing care home, holding his sister’s hand. Lee joins in heaven his loving parents, his sister, Mary Lou Cook; brother Thomas Cornell; his grandparents; and aunts, uncles, who have passed away before him. He was born on August 30, 1965, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, son of Thomas Leland and Shirley Joanne (Shores) Cornell. He competed in Special Olympic events while in his youth, winning Red and Blue Ribbons in Standing Long Jump and Track events. He completed his education at Ken O Shea Elementary School, Lincoln Developmental Center and graduated from Ottawa Hills High School with the Class of 1991. He loved his stuffed animals and books and magazines of all types. He loved animals and volunteered at the Kent County Animal Shelter. Lee also had an affinity for fast sports cars, good food and time spent making great memories with family and friends.

Lee is survived by his siblings, Cindy Cornell of Ionia, Joyce Hawkins of Grand Rapids, Ray Cornell of Grand Rapids and Margaret Fitzimmons of Caledonia; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A Celebration of Leland’s life is being planned for spring of 2026, with interment in Oakwood Cemetery in Lowell, next to his dear mother, Shirley. Those wishing to express their sympathy are welcomed to consider a contribution in Leland’s memory to Disability Advocates of Kent County, Corewell Health Hospice or Bowne Center United Methodist Church. Envelopes will be available at the service, or you may contact Verdun Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services for additional information anytime at (616) 794-1300 or www.verdunfh.com.