Leslie Zinser, born on February 21, 1960, in Atchison, Kansas, passed away at home on December 28, 2024. She was the daughter of Edward and Diane (Holland) Barchenski and had a cherished family life, being a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, daughter, sister and friend.
She spent her childhood between the Kansas City area and Camdenton with her 4 siblings. Leslie moved to Atchison in 1978 where her first two children were born, Jay in 1978 and Matt in 1979. In 1983, Leslie moved to Overland Park where she met the love of her life, Daniel. She and Dan married in 1986 and they welcomed their daughter Kaytie in 1987.
Family was always Leslie’s focus. She took great joy in supporting her children and grandchildren by cheering them on at band concerts, cheerleading (including coaching), and sporting events. She enjoyed scrapbooking family memories and crocheting for loved ones.
Leslie’s strong work ethic was evident throughout her life. This has been exemplified through her most recent role at The Carriage Club where she formed close connections with her colleagues and thoroughly enjoyed her work since 2018.
Leslie is survived by her husband of 38 years, Dan, and her children Jay (Kristen) Christensen, Matt (Rachelle) Christensen, and Kaytie (Soren) Petersen. She also leaves behind 7 grandchildren: Dylan (Caitlyn) and Hanna Christensen, Kyle, Darren, and Tanner Christensen, and Harrison and Madelynn Petersen; one great-grandchild, Oakley Christensen, and another great-grandchild on the way. Leslie is also remembered by her mother, Diane, and her siblings: Stephanie (Doc) Hines, Dana Johnson, and Chip (Julie) Barchenski, along with nieces, nephews, and countless other family and friends who love her.
She was preceded in death by her father Edward Barchenski, Sr and her sister Dallas Barchenski.
Affectionately known as "Nana", she will be remembered through the love and stories of her family and friends. Her legacy will live on through her family, and her memory will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew her.
A service will be held on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at Porter Funeral Home, Lenexa, Kansas, 8535 Monrovia, Lenexa, KS, with visitation at 1 p.m. and a Memorial Service at 1:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Alagille Syndrome Alliance Donate Online: Make A Difference | Alagille Syndrome Alliance in honor of her grandson, Tanner, who has Alagille Syndrome.
Classmate 78 ,Durham ,North Carolina
My sincere condolences for the loss of Leslie. She has always been a friend of mine even after all these years and many, many, miles away. My thoughts and prayers for you all and may God's peace and comfort be with you all the days.
‘78 CHS classmate ,Osage Beach ,Missouri
My deepest sympathy goes out to Leslie’s family during these difficult times. I had the pleasure of performing with her in Pom Pom during our school years and hanging out during class reunions were always special with her infectious smile and humor. May God’s grace keep you all in His loving arms.
Co-worker at Milburn Country Club ,Overland Park ,Kansas
My heartfelt condolences on the death of Leslie. Leslie and I worked together for 5 years at Milburn Country Club. She was so smart and beautiful and funny. Unfortunately we did not keep in contact after I left Milburn but Leslie has always been so special to me. She was an amazing friend and coworker. I am praying for her and all of her family and friends who will miss her terribly.💜
