News Summary
James ‘Jimmy’ Lessnau, the beloved owner of Sully’s Blues Bar, passed away after a long fight with Parkinson’s disease. Known for his contributions to Detroit’s music scene and his charitable spirit, Lessnau was a mentor to many local artists and an active community member. His legacy includes support for local talent and charitable acts, such as providing tickets to families during the Tigers’ World Series run. His influence in the music and bar community will be remembered fondly.
Detroit – James “Jimmy” Lessnau, a cherished figure in the metro Detroit bar scene and renowned for his ownership of Sully’s Blues Bar, passed away on July 11 at the age of 72 following a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. His contributions to music and community engagement left a lasting legacy in the region.
Lessnau became a notable name in the local music scene with the establishment of Sully’s Blues Bar in Dearborn, which he owned from 1982 until its closure in 1995. The venue gained a reputation as an iconic spot, frequently hosting sold-out shows that attracted both local legends and national artists. During its operational years, Sully’s became a hub for music lovers, showcasing a wide variety of performances that included renowned acts such as Dr. John, Leon Russell, and the Fabulous Thunderbirds, among others. The bar’s influence on the music landscape was recognized earlier this year when the Michigan Music Hall of Fame presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions.
Lessnau’s journey in the bar industry began with a brief stint at Cocomo’s Bar in 1980, but it was Sully’s that truly defined his legacy. Under his management, the bar not only promoted established acts but also nurtured local talent, significantly impacting the careers of many emerging musicians. Colleagues from the music scene recollected his positive influence and willingness to assist new bands, further solidifying his reputation as a supportive figure in the industry.
Deep Musical Roots and Community Involvement
Beyond his musical endeavors, Lessnau was known for his charitable spirit, exemplified by his generous act during the Detroit Tigers’ World Series run in 1984 when he distributed tickets to families unable to afford them. After the closure of Sully’s, he continued to immerse himself in the local bar scene, serving as a fixture at Howell’s Bar, where he was celebrated for his culinary skills, particularly his signature “Jimmy Burgers” and “Soul Sundays.” Tragically, Howell’s closed after a fire in 2014, marking another chapter in Lessnau’s life.
A Man of Many Interests
Lessnau’s interests extended beyond music and food; he was a devoted history aficionado and actively engaged in his community. He dedicated time to coaching youth baseball, softball, and basketball at the Patton Park Recreation Center, demonstrating his commitment to nurturing the next generation. With a passion for reading, he amassed an impressive collection of over a thousand books covering baseball, history, and cooking, which he enjoyed sharing with friends and family.
Personal Life and Legacy
Born in 1953, in southwest Detroit, Lessnau was the youngest of eight children. He attended St. Gabriel School and later graduated from Holy Redeemer High School. He was married for 39 years to Denise MacIsaac and is survived by four children and two grandchildren, whom he adored. His family also includes siblings Ed, Mary, Lois, Nora, and Ellen, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Lessnau was preceded in death by his parents, John Ross and Eleanor Lessnau, and his brother Daniel.
Visitation for Lessnau is set for July 15, from 1-9 p.m. at Howe-Peterson Funeral Home in Dearborn, concluding with a rosary service at 7:30 p.m. A funeral mass will take place on July 16 at Most Holy Redeemer Church in Detroit, starting at 9:30 a.m., followed by burial at St. Hedwig Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, honoring Lessnau’s fight against the disease.
James “Jimmy” Lessnau’s enduring impact on the Detroit music scene, paired with his charitable heart and community involvement, cements his memory within the lives he touched throughout his storied journey.
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Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press: Jimmy Lessnau Dies at 72
- Wikipedia: Music in Michigan
- Legacy: James Lessnau Obituary
- Google Search: Jimmy Lessnau
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Blues Music
