September 22, 1944 - March 28, 2022
James Francis Leonard passed away on March 28, 2022 in Lodi, CA. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio on September 22, 1944 to Robert and Marjorie Leonard. After his childhood in Concord Jim graduated from Chico State University. Jim served in the United States Army in the Vietnam War and after his return worked and lived in Sacramento and Central Coast before being hired by San Joaquin County as the Director of Parks and Recreation, Director of General Services, and the Director of Mountain House, making Lodi his home. After his retirement, Jim could be found enjoying many rounds of golf with his dear friends at Micke Grove Golf Links, a course he was instrumental in getting built.
Jim had a passion and love for golf, the stock market, sailing, all things Aloha but most important to him-his family. You could always find Jim at a baseball game, soccer game, track meet, recital, or dance. He loved watching his family do the things they were passionate about. Jim loved Hawaii, he and Joann vacationed as often as possible and would spend their time snorkeling, golfing, or relaxing on the beach. Jim was a wonderful parent and grandparent, and you would often find him cooking for his family or playing games with his grandchildren.
Jim survived by wife, JoAnn; children, Wendy Walker (Justin) and Jennifer Billings (Collin); grandchildren, Cyrus Walker, Camden Billings, and Brantley Billings; siblings, Samuel Leonard, Robert Leonard, Susan Noblett, and sister-in-law Cheryle Leonard.
He is preceded in death by his parents Robert and Marjorie Leonard and brother Patrick Leonard. Jim will forever be in our hearts; When we see the ocean or a golf course, hear a funny joke or see an aloha shirt we will remember his beautiful soul and be forever grateful for the time we had with him. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to a charity of your choice or the Salvation Army Lodi, 622 N. Sacramento St Lodi, CA 95240
SERVICE
The funeral service will be held on Monday, April 11th , 2022 at 11:30 a.m. in the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, 14165 N. Beckman Road, Lodi, CA 95240.
A reception to follow is located at Woodbridge Crossing, 18939 N. Lower Sacramento Rd., Woodbridge, CA.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Leonard family.
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