LEONARD, Robert L. (1933-2019)

LEONARD

Posted By: Karon Velau (email)
Date: 11/23/2019 at 17:58:52

Robert Lee Leonard
(March 4, 1933 - November 19, 2019)

Robert Lee Leonard, 86, of Indianola, Iowa, passed away peacefully at Westview Care Center, Indianola, on November 19, 2019. Bob was born on March 4, 1933 to David “Oren” Leonard and Neva Draper Leonard in Early, Iowa.

Bob was married to his wife of 43 years, Phyllis, until her death in 2011. Bob’s life will be celebrated with a joint graveside service with his wife in the spring.

Robert grew up on a farm near Lake View, Iowa, one of nine children, and developed a love for farming. He went to work at John Deere in Ankeny, Iowa retiring in 1988 after 32 years of service. Along with his full-time job at John Deere, Bob continued in his joy of farming.

Bob and Phyllis enjoyed camping and traveling, including trips back to Black Hawk Lake in his hometown of Lake View and trips to the Southwestern United States in the winter months. During this time, Bob collected both new and antique toy tractors with a special endearment to the John Deere. He also enjoyed fishing trips with both family and friends.

Bob had a great quality of life in his last few years at Westview Care Center and his family would like to thank the kind and caring culture of the staff. Bob often remarked that everyone that helped him with his needs were just wonderful people. He also acquired several friends while there, including a small group of fellow residences known as the Break Out Boys, who would often be seen venturing about the town on their scooters near the care center.

Robert is preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis; parents, Oren and Neva; brothers, Dick, Jim, Dave and Tom; sisters, Shirley, Mary Ann, and Jane; and son, Chuck. He is survived by his brother, George (Pat) Leonard; sons, Cal (Linda) Leonard and Clint (Catherine) Leonard; daughter-in-law, Amy Leonard; 8 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren; along with niece, Pam and nephew, Jimmy whom he thought of as his children throughout his life. Memorials may be given to the family for a memorial that will be decided at a later date. This memorial is provided by Overton Funeral Home, 501 West Ashland Ave., Indianola, Iowa, http://www.overtonfuneral.com/