Leonard Ventling

On May 20, 1931, the Black Hills of South Dakota became a little more notable when Walter and Bernice Ventling welcomed their first child, Leonard Ernest. He became a big brother to Paul, Dean and David. As a young boy, Len witnessed the chiseling of George Washington’s nose, which would eventually become Mount Rushmore. He spent his elementary and high school years in South Dakota, then migrated to Wyoming, and on to Minnesota where he graduated from North Central Bible School. There he met the love of his life Anita Hanson. They married on May 21, 1955, and later welcomed their four children Stephen, Lenita, Dana, and Mark.

Len was gregarious with a contagious smile and natural affinity for sales. He worked for JCPenney for 17 years, being based in Worland, WY, Lewistown  MT, Williston ND, Omaha NB and finally settled in Billings, MT which became home. Len utilized his skills to become a successful State Farm Insurance agent for 25 years. Retirement did not last long, as he and Anita’s next venture included purchasing several acres adjacent to Laurel Golf Course where he pastured his and others’ horses. This barren parcel of ag land gave vision to Saddleback Ridge Estates which he co-developed with his son Mark and continues to be a thriving community.

He was quick to volunteer and served on numerous charitable organizations including Gideons, Montana Rescue Mission, Billings Rotary Club and Provision International. Len had a heart of love for God and the Gospel of Christ and served 24 years with the Montana Assemblies of God as both Men’s Ministries and Light for the Lost Directors, raising financial support for foreign and homes missions. He led teams of men to Nigeria, Curacao, and Haiti.

Len was also passionate about elk and deer hunting, becoming a tremendous resource to his sons and others who acknowledged him as a master hunter. He also loved fishing and enjoyed the abundant lakes in the Beartooth and Bighorn mountains as well as the Northwest Territories, Alberta and Ontario, Canada.

Len is preceded in death by his brothers Paul and David. He is survived by his wife of over 71 years Anita; and his legacy continues through his children Steve (Maggie), Leni, Dana, Mark (Heidi); his grandchildren Beau (Amanda), Amy (Brian Smith), Meagan, Matti, Kaden (Anna), and Paige; and his great-grands Beau Jr, Jax, Blake, Stevie, Charli, Jace and Roan.

If desired, memorials may be given to Gideons, Light for the Lost, Glacier Bible Camp or the charity of your choice. A special thanks to Westpark Village Assisted Living and Billings Clinic for their exceptional loving care.

His Celebration of Life will take place on November 7, 2026, at 2 pm at Parkhill Church, 1701 Parkhill Drive, Billings, MT. An informal viewing is scheduled from 1 to 1:45pm preceding the service. Burial will take place at Willow Creek Cemetery in Buffalo, WY.