Ronald Harry Leonard, age 89, of Lake Orion, passed away on March 7, 2025.
Ronald was the loving father of David (Anita) Leonard, Alan (Kimberly) Leonard, and the late Ronald Leonard (Michele Labadie). He is also survived by 11 grandchildren: Amanda, Anna, Jacqueline, Elizabeth, Matthew, Andrew, Felicity, Ronnie, Braeden, Luciana, and Brody; and one great-granddaughter, Elliana.
Ronald was born in Detroit on Sept. 26, 1935. Later his parents, Harry Leonard and Rhoda Williams and sisters, Gail and Deanna, moved to Port Hope where they opened up the Hardware Store in town.
Ronald graduated from Port Hope High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed overseas in Germany. After the service, he came home and met his beloved late wife of 60 years, Elaine (Philip). They lived in Port Huron, Pontiac, and eventually settled in Lake Orion where they raised their family.
He was the plumbing inspector for the city of Pontiac and Auburn Hills. When his boys started flipping used cars so much, he decided in 1984 to buy some land on Baldwin Road in Orion Township and start a used car lot called Leonard Enterprise. He enjoyed spending time at the American Legion Posts 63 and 377 and marching in the Clarkston Fourth of July parade. He loved his Ford Mustangs and spending time with family.
Memorials may be made to the Campbell Richmond American Legion Post #63, 8047 Ortonville Road, Clarkston, MI 48348.
Funeral service was held Monday, March 10, 2025 at Modetz Funeral Home, Orion Township. Interment is at Colfax Cemetery, Bad Axe, Michigan. Online tributes may be shared at www.modetzfuneralhomes.com.