Leonard F. Ames "Bud"

Bud, well known for his construction expertise, was a general contractor for more than 40 years. Bud's talents for construction design and building are prevalent throughout the state of Florida. As a resident of South Lake County for 48 years, he played a part in the construction of many of the buildings in our area. He was often called upon in the religious community to consult in the projects of building new churches, because Bud had such expertise in "budget" conscious design and build. Bud loved sports, especially golf. He was a volunteer at Bay Hill for the Arnold Plamer invitational golf tournament for over 20 years. He also loved baseball; the Detroit Tigers was his team. Bud went on many expeditions with his son Buddy, to visit ballparks across the country. If there was anything he was more passionate about it was football, specifically fantasy football. He would get very "passionate" about playing this with buddies at work, he always managed a competitive team!

Bud also was dedicated to volunteering and community. He was a member of Bahia Shriners, and Free Masons. As a business professional he currently serves as Director of Education for the Southeast Chapter of the Metal Building Contractors Industry. Additionally, he was awarded The Pioneer Award for 25 years of continued service in the metal building industry by MBCI. When his son was active with Drum Corp International, DCI, he spent many summers traveling the country supporting the activity and the corps Buddy was a member of Suncoast Sound and Florida Wave. He built the original equipment semi-trailer for Suncoast Sound, which stored and hauled all their equipment and supplies. He also built and designed the "chuck wagon", a mobile kitchen that fed 200 kids, staff, and support personnel.

Bud mostly was dedicated to his family. He was married to Orvella for 57 years. When Orvella was diagnosed with dementia, Bud remained by her side lovingly, continuing to make sure all her needs were met.

He is survived by Orvella; children, Leornard F. "Buddy" Ames, III (Jodi), Angela Ames, and Andrea Bellin (Charles); grandchildren, Abigail, Michael, Jessica, Alex and Cory; great-grandchildren, Dakota, Kolbie, Charlotte, and Brooklynn; and sister-in-law, Marion Sjoblom.

Above all Bud is a loving, honest, charitable, knowledgeable, devoted man who spent his life giving his time, knowledge and experiences to the people around him.

Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, August 15, 2023, 3pm, at Becker Funeral Home.  The family will receive friends starting at 2pm.

Interment at Oak Hill Cemetery will be private.