Leonard Clayborn "Bigs" Bigler, of Walker Michigan passed away peacefully on June 25, 2026, with his wife, he loved so deeply, by his side. He was born on November 6, 1947, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. To generations of students, he was "Bigs." To countless athletes, he was "Coach." To Friday night football fans, he was the familiar voice behind the microphone. To his family, he was simply BooBoo".
Len proudly attended Ferris State University, where he wore #50 as a member of the school's first undefeated football team, an accomplishment he treasured throughout his life. He later earned master's degrees in Educational Leadership from both Grand Valley State University and Central Michigan University, achievements that held special meaning for him and reflected his lifelong belief in the value of education.
For nearly 40 years, Len taught business classes at Kenowa Hills High School. Named City of Walker Teacher of the Year, he became known not only for teaching business and finance
concepts but also for teaching practical life lessons with humor, honesty, and compassion. Long after graduation, former students regularly stopped him in stores and restaurants to tell him they still remembered his class and that he had been their favorite teacher. Those conversations never grew old.
Football was woven throughout Len's life. He coached football for many years, and became the beloved announcer for the Kenowa Hills football team and for the MHSAA football state playoff games. He took special pride in recognizing every athlete who stepped onto the field, believing that every player deserved to hear their name announced, whether they scored the winning touchdown or played only a single snap.
Len's greatest joy, however, was his family.
He shared 53 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Bonnie. Together they built a home filled with laughter, unwavering support, and traditions that their children and
grandchildren will cherish forever. As Len's health declined, Bonnie lovingly cared for him with extraordinary devotion. Even in his final days, he continually asked for his wife, trusting that no one could care for him the way she could.
Len is survived by his beloved wife, Bonnie; his children, Mandy (Russ), Chris (Nicole), and
Aaron; and his cherished grandchildren, Jaiden, Locke, and Emory and Avery and Gavin.
If there was one thing Len believed, it was that showing up mattered. Having grown up without his own father attending his football games, he made sure his children and grandchildren never looked into the stands without seeing him and Bonnie cheering them on. From youth sports through college athletics, they rarely missed a game. His grandchildren were the greatest source of pride in his life. Anyone who spent even a few minutes talking with Bigs knew exactly what they were up to, because he never missed an opportunity to brag about them.
A lifelong learner, Leonard was rarely without a book in his hands. His family eventually stopped giving him books for Christmas because he would begin reading immediately and forget there were still presents to open. He loved history, museums, and sharing those interests with his children. He was endlessly fascinated by the JFK assassination and UFOs, prompting his family to joke that he had read enough books to solve one mystery and explain the other.
Known for his quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and larger-than-life personality. He had a knack for making people laugh and, if his family is being completely honest, he was never
disappointed to find himself at the center of attention. It became a running joke that if the
spotlight drifted elsewhere for too long, BooBoo might gently find a way to bring it back.
Len leaves behind a legacy measured not only by years of service or accomplishments, but by the countless students he inspired, athletes he encouraged, friendships he cultivated, and the family he loved beyond measure.
Bigs made one thing perfectly clear long before this day ever came-he didn't want a traditional goodbye. He wanted people to gather, tell funny stories, raise a Coors Light, and celebrate a life well lived. His family will honor those wishes with a Celebration of Life planned for the weekend of July 10, 2026. Additional details, including the location and time, will be shared once arrangements are finalized.