August 1, 1933 – July 3, 2023
Wesley Eugene “Gene” Leonard was born the eighth of nine children to Patrick Joseph Leonard and Clara Grace (Stauffacher) in Fraser, Colorado, on August 1, 1933.
Gene followed his dream of becoming a math teacher to Western State College of Colorado in Gunnison, where he locked eyes with the inimitable Martha Dillard.
It’s impossible to talk about Gene without mentioning Martha. Theirs is a love story that lasted 59 years. Her gregarious nature balanced his “Mean Gene” edges and revealed his softness. Inseparable from the start, Gene never missed an opportunity to recall what “a special soul” Martha was and how lucky he was that she noticed him.
The couple graduated in the spring of 1955, wed that August, and moved to Moab to start long careers as educators. In addition to teaching, Gene was Grand County High School vice principal and also coached wrestling.
Gene’s upbringing informed a work ethic that he was keen to pass down to further generations. He loved pulling fence and chopping wood up at “camp”—the family’s Colorado Plateau property.
The couple generously lived their love for the community, their students and, especially, their family. Gene and Martha attended every school sporting event they could, chaperoned dances, and walked hand-in-hand around town picking up discarded garbage along the sidewalks as they walked.
Gene joked each birthday that he was “turning 39!” He outlived his siblings (Jim, Edna, Mable, Thelma, Betty, Peter, Jack, and Dick) and the love of his life Martha.
He is survived by four children: Melody Sakrison (Dave), Lori Leonard (Mike Butler), Wendi O’Donnal (John), and Jeff Leonard (Mindy); ten grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren. He was looking forward to welcoming his first great-great-grandchild.
Gene passed away in his home of 67 years on July 3, 2023, feeding the birds he loved in his backyard.
The family thanks those who cared for Gene, especially Dr. Munger, the Meals on Wheels volunteers and Spanish Valley Mortuary.
In lieu of flowers, contributions to the St. Francis Scholarship or Grand County Athletic Funds are appreciated.
You may send condolences to the family at www.SpanishValleyMortuary.com.
