Michael W. Leonard

Chief Petty Officer, Michael W. Leonard, 77, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2020, with his lovely wife, Antionette, of 56 years holding his hand.Chief, as he was known, had an incredible life that many never knew. He had just retired from the Navy upon moving to South Bend. He served 25 years in the United States Navy and was attached to the Marine Corp, and Air Force. Mike was an underwater demolition expert, frog man, salvage diver, corpsman, x-ray tech, rescue diver, and served in both war and peacetime, a volunteer always. Chief didn't wait for others to act, he led the way as others followed. Chief's favorite part was being in the nursery with the babies.Mike is survived by his wife, Toni Leonard; son, William (Lisa) Leonard; daughters, Michelle (Don) Poole, Amy Leonard (Jeremiah), Kathryn (Jeff) Molner; sisters, Renee Mann, and Sharon Leonard; 10 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren.Chief was a veteran, husband, friend, father, son, brother, son-in-law, grandpa, and so much more. Chief had 9 lives. He was struck by lightning twice, and most scary, was being left out in the middle ocean not once, but twice. Chief is now with his son, Michael, mother, and many more friends and family that have been waiting for him. Chief was so loved, and we were loved by him. Our hearts are broken, we are so thankful for the life he gave us. We appreciate all of your condolences.There is no service planned at this time due to the pandemic and social distancing policies in place.To send private condolences, please visit www.McGannHay.com