David John Leonard

David John Leonard, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2025, at the age of 85.

Born in Torrington, CT on October 24, 1939, David graduated from Torrington High School in 1957 and Oliver Wolcott Technical School in 1959. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1960 to 1965 with the 4/40th Artillery, receiving an honorable discharge at the rank of E5 Sergeant. His service was recognized with the Connecticut Wartime Service Medal and Ribbon.

David worked for over 30 years in the parts department at several local GM dealerships, including Zele Chevrolet, Auto World and Capuano Cadillac Buick. He was known for his knowledge and reliability.

A lifelong sports and outdoors enthusiast, David enjoyed boating and cheering for the New York Giants, the New York Mets, and UConn men’s basketball. He especially loved spending summers with family on the Outer Banks. He was a proud member of the B.P.O.E. and gave back to his community as a baseball and basketball coach.

David was married to his beloved wife, Sandra (Hornyak) Leonard for 60 years. Together they built a life rooted in love, family, and shared values.

He is survived by his wife Sandra and their children: Colleen Schoenwald; Karen Tesch and her husband Jeffrey; John Leonard and his wife Karen; and Brian Leonard. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Caroline (Schoenwald) Elliott and her husband Sean, Victoria Schoenwald, Corey Tesch and his wife Christine, Brenden Tesch and his wife Lisa, Kyler Tesch, Caitlin (Leonard) Pẽna and her husband Lou, and John Patrick Leonard. David leaves behind his great-grandchildren: Charles, Scarlett, Lorenzo, Jaiden and Gabby; as well as his sister, Linda D’Angelo, and several generations of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Percy and Isabelle, brother Bill, and sisters; Betty and Diane.

A service will be held at the chapel at Hillside Cemetery at 9:30 am on July 21, 2025, followed by a burial with military honors. David will be laid to rest in the family plot. Donations to the American Red Cross or the American Cancer Society in David’s memory would be appreciated.

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