1955 – 2013

TURNER — “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I — I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” Browning’s words lend to the individuality of the human spirit and the unique trails we get to hike along life’s journey.

On Sunday, Aug. 25, Jesus lit up the path and welcomed John into His assembly in God’s Kingdom.

John Michael Lelansky was born in Lewiston on July 20, 1955. He was educated in Auburn schools and graduated from Holdenous Academy in New Hampshire. He was a lifelong outdoor enthusiast, an Eagle Scout and a member of the U.S. Ski Team.

Life’s road took him to Chicago and New Orleans, before coming home to meet the love of his life, Catherine, right in the town he grew up in. They loved, lived and worked together in Bar Harbor, until the path brought them back to Auburn. They were soon married at a candlelight service on a snowy Christmas Eve; a year later, a daughter was born.

John continued to live every day with positivity, and taught love and patience to everyone who was blessed to know him. He wasn’t concerned with material objects, and listened with his heart and spoke the truth. He worked with focus and truly enjoyed life — each and every moment.

John is not gone, he’s just a little further up the trail, setting up the campsite, because Jesus needed an Eagle Scout in heaven.

John is survived by his wife of 33 years, Catherine; his daughter, Jenna Lelansky; granddaughter, Acadia Arsenault; his father, Joseph Lelansky and his wife, Linda; his brothers, Greg and Billy; sister-in-law, Becky; many nieces and nephews; and an extended family of friends too plentiful to mention.

His mother, Bernice Elizabeth Blood Lelansky, and his brother, David, were waiting for him in heaven.

He is now basking in the glory of God’s light.