Darwin Leonard

Darwin Dale Leonard was born January 15, 1940 in Osceola County, Iowa to Arthur and Estella (Wehmeyer) Leonard. In March of 1943 the family moved to Lake Park, Iowa.  He attended
first grade in Sioux Valley, MN and then in March of 1948 they moved to rural Verndale, MN and made this their home. Darwin went to country school for grades 2-6 and then attended
Verndale Public School for grades 7-12 graduating in 1958. He worked tirelessly as a dairy and grain farmer for 25 years, except for 1963-1965 when he served in the US Army Military Police stationed in Korea during peacetime.

Darwin met his love Wilma the fall of 1969 and the two were married on April 25th, 1970. He not only gained a new wife, but an instant family of three kids (Rick, Dave and Linda) at the same time without hesitation. Together they had a daughter Barbara in 1971.

Darwin was a member of the Central Church from the time the family moved to the Verndale area and could often be found serving where needed, whether plowing snow, cleaning the church or serving on various committees throughout the years.  When he "retired" from the dairy side he worked at the local Ag and Pet for 10 years, Nanik Electric for 10 years, and then McDonald's for 14 years. He loved cutting wood, playing cards, puzzles, his garden and flowers. He was also an avid walker and thoroughly enjoyed playing ball with the kids, grandkids and great grandkids throughout the years. Known for his quick wit and kind heart, all those who knew him loved that sparkle in his eye. Most importantly, spending precious time with his family and friends
brought him great joy.

Surrounded by family, Darwin passed away at home on February 9th, 2025 at the age of 85. Darwin's memory will be treasured by his loving wife of 54 years, Wilma Leonard of Wadena, MN; children, Rick (Cindy) Kasperson of Verndale, MN, Dave (Ginette) Kasperson of Round Rock, TX, Linda Kasperson of Tustin, CA, Barb (Brett) Bastian of Clear Lake, MN, 8 Grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, siblings Don (Kathy) Leonard of Sauk Centre, MN; sister-in-law Darlene Leonard of Wadena, MN and many nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Stella (Wehmeyer) Leonard, brothers Laurence Leonard and Leslie Leonard, and sister LaVonne Baker.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorials be directed to the Wadena County Relay for life.

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