Leonard Sundell

Leonard Raymond Sundell, 96, of Billings, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2018. From his wonderfully successful career as a prominent Modernist Architect to his award-winning talent in the Billings art scene, Leonard lived an incredible life and was a deeply respected member of the Billings community. He was an active member and leader in numerous organizations including the Shriners Black Horse Patrol with his horse, Snuffy, a member of the NCARB, AIA, Toastmasters, Billings City County Planning Board, was past Governor of Optimist International for Montana, Alberta and Saskatchewan, long time Treasurer for Billings Optimist Club, a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and was being honored as the oldest living Mason in Montana at the time of his passing. His architecture will endure in Billings and all throughout Montana and Wyoming as a lasting legacy of his art. As a Mid-Century Modernist and student of the Frank Lloyd Wright style, he is responsible for designing several beautiful homes in Billings (including his own family home), Burlington School in Billings, Congregational Church in Laurel, an addition to the Montana State University Student Union, and the beautiful facilities of Dahl Funeral Chapel in Billings where his final arrangements there bring his career truly full circle. Leonard “Lenn” Sundell coupled his profession as an architect with his desire to paint. His paintings reflected an interest in capturing the mood and spirit of both the west of yesteryear and today, featuring old buildings, farm machinery, landscapes, seascapes, wildlife, rodeos, and portraits. His paintings hang in many collections throughout the United States, Canada, and Sweden. He was accepted in multiple juried shows and has had numerous one man shows and exhibits. He was a member of the Montana Institute of the Arts, Director of the Billings Art Association, a member of the Montana Watercolor Society, and was on the Board of Directors of the Yellowstone Art Center. His studio and gallery were in his home and visitors were always welcome. Leonard was born July 19, 1922, in Miles City, Montana. After moving back to his homeland of Sweden, then Chicago, he moved to Billings where he met his future wife, Marian Fredrickson Sundell. Lenn and Marian were married and lived happily together for 65 years. Marian was a source of unconditional support to Leonard and made all of his goals in life her goals as well. Their family, close-knit Bridge Club, numerous friends and neighbors will fondly remember their wonderful partnership and loving relationship. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and uncle. He was truly loved. Survivors include his son Drew (Anny) Sundell, his daughter Julie (Del) Hopewell, his three grandchildren Jessica (David) Wheeler, Ryan Hopewell, and Leah (David) Swalley, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. He also had two great-grandchildren, Adalie Wheeler and Zoe Swalley. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Marian and his brother, Walter Sundell. Cremation has taken place at Dahl Funeral Chapel. Memorials may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children's Burn Care and Treatment Unit at www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/shc/donate or the charity of your choice. For condolences and additional information visit www.dahlfuneralchapel.com or send condolences directly to Julie Hopewell at 7811 48th Pl E, Bradenton, FL 34203 or Drew Sundell at Box 281, Columbus, MT 59019.