Leon Michael Kress

(Leon) Michael Kress 77, of Upper Marlboro, MD passed away peacefully on February 8, 2023. Born on October 15, 1945, in Washington, D.C to Leon George and Anne (Nolan) Kress. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Carl Kress. Living in his childhood home of Baltimore, Maryland, Mike attended parochial school graduating in 1963 from Calvert Hall College High School, attended the University of Maryland, served in the Army Reserve, and worked as an overhead crane operator at Bethlehem Steel Sparrows Point. Ultimately, Mike followed the footsteps of his father as the 2nd generation to create a lifelong career in the tire and automotive service industry. He successfully managed several corporate owned Goodyear and General Tire retail locations in the Washington-Baltimore Metropolitan area. He left the retail market to work as an outside commercial tire salesman for Stidham Tire in Landover, Maryland. Settling in Southern Maryland, Mike achieved his personal goal of having his very own family business by opening Marlboro Tire and Automotive, Inc. in 1982. Over the years, the business has employed his father, his brother, both sons, his daughter, grandchildren, nephews, and many other unrelated employees who Mike always considered family. The business continues today with its 40-year family history. At the helm, are 3rd and 4th generation family members to have a career in the tire and automotive service industry. During his 60-year career in the industry, Mike made many achievements. Most notably, while serving on the Board of Directors for the Maryland Tire Dealer Association, he played an integral role in drafting and lobbying to pass Maryland scrap tire laws that remain in place today. Mike also served on the Board of Directors for the Chesapeake Automotive Business Association and the Automotive Aftermarket Federal Credit Union with the same enthusiastic dedication. Mike was a smart, caring and funny husband and father who surrounded himself with family in his business. He loved fun family adventures to the beach, cruises with his wife, and camping annually with his children and grandchildren. He will be missed immensely and always be with his family in loving memory. Survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Leda (Raby) Kress and children, Brian (Lisa), Tim (Heidi), and Megan; five grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Along with many other family members and friends. Visitation will be held at Raymond Funeral Chapel at 5635 Washington Ave, La Plata, MD 20646 on February 23, 2023 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm with prayer service at 7pm. Interment will be private for immediate family. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Hospice of the Chesapeake.

Leon Michael Kress

October 15, 1945 - February 8, 2023