Leonard Wood

Leonard Lee Wood, 91, of Nixa, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2023, and went home to be with his Lord and Savior.

Leonard is survived by his loving wife, June Wood of 15 years; daughter, Jan Marti (Tom); son, Larry Wood (Melony); stepson, Carl Cantrell (Doreen); 3 granddaughters, 1 grandson, 10 great-grandchildren and 2 step grandkids: Haley and Jacob Cantrell.

Leonard was a loving father, husband, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to everyone.

Leonard was born February 17, 1932, to Leonard Melvin and Violet Lee Wood in Susanville, California. After graduating High school in Susanville, California. Leonard enlisted in the US Army National Guard, on July 19, 1949, and earned the rank of Sergeant. He attended and graduated from Bethany Bible College in 1958, Licensed to Preach. On January 29, 1965, he graduated from Chico State College earning a Bachelor of Education. He began teaching in Madeline, California in a one room schoolhouse (grades K-12). After moving to Manteca, he taught at Yosemite School in the Manteca Unified School District. Leonard was the first “male” teacher in the district to teach elementary grades. His preference was 2nd grade. He always said, “ the children had not been ruined yet”. After 30 years of service, he received the Golden Apple Award and retired. Leonard relocated to Apple Valley, California after his retirement.

Leonard loved playing the accordion, banjo, harmonica, singing and especially dancing (the broom dance was one of his favorites along with being the annual Easter Bunny). He and June were an integral part of the Melody Makers of the High Desert where they entertained seniors throughout the community. In his free time, he enjoyed gardening and feeding the birds.

The family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude towards Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home for being very accommodating and understanding during this difficult time.

Services for Leonard will be August 11, 2023, at 10am at the Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home, located at 500 E. Walnut Street in Springfield, Missouri. Following the service, Leonard will be laid to rest at the Resurrection Cemetery in Springfield with full Military Honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Leonard's name to the Dementia Society of America.

Permanent online condolences, stories and photos may be shared at www.hhlohmeyer.com.