Gary Clark Leonard

Gary Clark Leonard, 71, Milo, Mo., left this Earth on Friday, Oct. 28, 2011, at his home in Milo. He was born on May 13, 1940, to Otis Leonard and Hazel Alta Clark Leonard. He married Barbara Ellen Hughes in Arcola, Mo., on Nov. 21, 1964, and she survives of the home.

Gary attended school in Nevada, graduating in 1958. As a young man he rode his bike all over Nevada delivering both the Nevada newspaper and Kansas City Star. Gary worked for Balk Tractor and Implement and Garton Equipment in Nevada for many years until they closed. He then drove a dump truck for Bus Faith until his retirement.

Gary played an active role in his children's, grandchildren's and great-grandchildren's lives and activities, attending many ball games, wrestling matches and Youth Fair events. He drove a stock car and was an avid stock car fan.

In addition to his wife, Barbara, survivors include one son, G. Clark Leonard II and his girlfriend, Amy Stark, Milo, Mo.; one daughter, Jodie Leonard Stephens and her husband, Bill, El Dorado Springs, Mo.; six grandchildren, Kaleb Leonard and Ashley Heathman, both of Nevada, Klayton Leonard and his wife, Sarina, Nevada, Derek Stark, Milo, Layton, Marissa and Jimmy Stephens, all of El Dorado Springs; three great-grandchildren Beau, Cali and Emilea Leonard, all of Nevada; one sister, Mary Joanna Pritchett and her husband, Lloyd, Independence, Mo.; and numerous nieces, nephews and great-aunts. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Graveside services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 3, at Newton Burial Park, Nevada, with Roger Beach officiating. Friends may call now and until 12:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 3, at Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada. The family will receive friends from 7-8 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 2, at Ferry Funeral Home.

Those who wish may contribute in his memory to either the American Heart Association or Vernon County Youth Fair.

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