ROBERT LEONHARDT

I knew Bob from our days together at Columbia University. We organized together in the fight against racism and the Vietnam war. His commitment to the fight for social justice was unwavering.

A joyful memory of Bob: After we exchanged hellos on the phone, Bob always asked, "What's new and exciting?" And each time, his greeting challenged me to leave the mundane behind and embrace the fullness of life.

Bob called me regularly to support me in my organizing work. His greeting was always, "What's new and exciting?" It lifted me up and made me feel purposeful about my life. "Yes, I'm young! Something should always be new and exciting in my life!"
Now at the age of 70, this is how I often greet the young people in my life.
Thank you Bob.

Tonight is Bob's Yahrzeit, the 4th annual Jewish remembrance of his life, and Lou and I will again light a 24-hour candle to honor and remember his many acts of kindness, commitment, generosity ... The list goes on. From the time we first met as colleagues at Bigelow Junior High School in Newton, MA, throughout more than 25 years of California-New York correspondence and the shared love for Paris (where we last met in 2009), we have treasured his friendship and humanity, and now, those...

So very sorry to hear. I know his memory is a blessing. Warm regards from Joan's former neighbor.

I discovered this page in 2018, after reading a column of David's and wondering what his father was up to. "Mr. Leonhardt" was my English and Latin teacher in Newton, MA, ca. 1981, and he was one of the best teachers I've ever had. He assigned Thucydides and Tacitus to 13-year-olds and trusted that we would rise to the task. He was full of energy and passion for his subject; even Latin vocabulary became a game of etymology. I am sure he reached thousands of other students and inspired...

I knew Bob in the 1960s, when his son David was a baby. How much I admired and relied on Bob! (Besides political advice, he gave me a special sauce recipe, which I still use and always makes me think of him.)
God rest his great soul.

Bob's dedication to social justice and anti-racism is legendary. I am so sorry I cannot make it to his memorial.

We just learned and are so saddened by the news of Bob's passing. Joan, you and the entire family are in our thoughts and hearts. Our deepest condolences to all of you.

Marcie & Don