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Samuel Atchison Leonard
Born: 9/4/1947
Died: 4/28/2022
Age: 74
Community: White Lake, MI
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LEONARD, Samuel Atchison of White Lake, and formerly of Clarkston, passed away Thursday, April 28, 2022; age 74; husband of Ellen Leonard; father of Samantha (Brent) Myers and Joel (Jamie) Leonard; grandfather of Mason, Keagan, James, Amelia; brother of Christopher “Kip” (Julie) Leonard, Tom (Barb) Leonard, Patty (Nathan) Bone; preceded in death by his parents Harry & Doris Leonard; brothers John (Rosemary) Leonard and Dean (Lenore) Leonard.
There are some people who seek to further their education in life, then there are people like Sam who took it to an entirely different level. Following the receipt of his Bachelor’s Degree, Sam would go on to obtain a degree in Electrical Engineering from Michigan Tech, then would follow that up by obtaining his Doctorate Degree in Law from Wayne State University in Detroit. As a sideline, Sam decided to enhance his knowledge by delving into the field of real estate where he earned his broker’s license as well. As a longtime employee with the General Motors Corporation, he would ultimately retire as their Director of Worldwide Emissions following his dedicated emphasis to the betterment of vehicle performance. Sam would retire on 01/01/01,...choosing that date so he would always remember the momentous occasion.
But though extended education and a stellar work history helped to define the man, Sam’s life was rife with a host of pleasures and pastimes that rounded out the man,…like the many road trips he shared with his bride of almost 50 years when the two would hop on their motorcycles and head out on the highway together,…she on her Honda Shadow, and he on his Honda Valkyrie. Their memories were many as they traveled to both old and new destinations, but especially meaningful when they added the motorcycle mecca of Sturgis, South Dakota to the list. Aside from their motorcycle memories were the numerous trips they enjoyed to many places around the globe. From many sites throughout America, to the vast array of localities within Europe and as far away as New Zealand. They were truly globetrotters, just not of the Harlem persuasion. Travel was also made quite special each time they loaded up the family and headed out on the annual trek to their summer vacation spot in Pure Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. There was simply something extraordinary about crossing the Mighty Mac into the pristine surroundings of Yupper Country,…obviously the reason it became an annual escape from the concrete jungle.
In telling the story of Sam & Ellen’s wonderful marriage, a great example of its success was woven by the things they shared together like the many plays and concerts they frequented. Lovers of the arts, much of their satisfaction came from the stage performances they enjoyed and the host of incredible talent that brought it to life. Especially memorable was their trip to the quaint little hamlet of Niagara-on-the-Lake where they partook of the summer Shaw Festival, a series of stage productions that was enhanced by the natural beauty of its flower-lined streets and old-world architecture.
Some of Sam’s other passions included his love for the game of golf. Always in search of that elusive Hole-in-One, there was nothin’ better than spending a sunny day on the links soaking up ambiance,…especially when shared with a friend. Sam was also quite fond of giving Ol’ Lady Luck a run for her money each time he made visited the casino. Sometimes a winner, sometimes not,…but you just couldn’t match the excitement and aura that fills a room full of anticipation and hope. An avid reader, Sam truly enjoyed each opportunity he found to curl up with a good book, namely an engaging Sci-Fi thriller. And he didn’t just read the books, he devoured them in no time flat. Lastly, the joy of playing cards with his buddies each week ranked quite high on his list of passions, specifically when being challenged to a rousing game of Euchre. There were some other games in the mix as well, but Euchre was truly where it was at!
Yet of all that brought Sam the joys and pleasures that meant the most, nothing could match the immeasurable love he possessed for his precious family. Especially endearing were his four beautiful grandchildren who kept him quite busy and entertained with their various sporting activities. Sam loved watching them compete and learn the importance of sportsmanship. And when Grandpa was in the stands, they had no better or more devout cheerleader than he.
A loving husband, dad, grandfather, brother and friend, Sam leaves behind a wonderful legacy of love for all to cherish with each reflection shared. He touched a multitude of hearts and lives in his journey through life, and has won the battle he fought so hard to sustain. He will be missed beyond measure and loved beyond expression.
Visitation for Sam will be held Sunday, May 1st from 4-8 pm at the Lewis E. Wint & Son Funeral Home, Clarkston. Funeral Services will take place on Monday, 10:30 am at the funeral home.
Please leave a memory or condolence on the online guestbook below www.wintfunerahome.com.
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Visitation |
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5/1/2022 |
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4:00 PM |
Visitation 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm |
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Funeral Service |
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5/2/2022 |
Time: |
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10:30 AM |
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Location: |
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Lewis E. Wint & Son Funeral Home
5929 S Main St.
Clarkston, MI 48346 Get a Map to this location...
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