LEONARD MITCHELL ROPFOGEL

1923 - 2015

ROPFOGEL Wichita - Ropfogel, Leonard Mitchell 92, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2015. Funeral Service will be at 2:00 P.M., Thursday, November 5, 2015, at Downing & Lahey East Mortuary. Leonard was born in Emporia, KS on May 31, 1923, the son of Tillie Goldstein Ropfogel and Abraham Harry Ropfogel. He and his two brothers, Milton and Albert, grew up in Emporia. After high school, Leonard attended Kansas State University to play basketball. After a year, he left K-State to serve his country in WWII. While serving in George Patton's 3rd Army, he helped liberate the town of Pilsen, Czech Republic. Every year to this day, the town has a celebration where thousands turn out in gratitude to the American soldiers who liberated them. Leonard received the Bronze Star for meritorious achievement in ground combat against the armed enemy in the European theatre of operations. After the war, Leonard returned home, attended and graduated from the University of Missouri. Several years after graduating he met and married the love of his life, Sonya "Sonny" Bennett Ropfogel, the best thing that ever happened to him. They were married November 4, 1951. Leonard began his career working at Harry Ropfogel's, his father's men's clothing store in Emporia. Leonard never lost his taste for stylish clothes. In 1967, Leonard, Sonny, and their three young daughters moved to Wichita, KS. He obtained his real estate license, became a stock broker as well as a licensed private detective. Ultimately, Leonard became involved in the oil and gas business. He went on to form Falcon Exploration with Mike Mitchell in 1981. Theirs was a successful venture that continues today. Leonard also turned his love of fine jewelry into a business, Jewels Boutique. His reputation for selling beautiful jewelry was well-known. Leonard was a fixture at the Petroleum Club in downtown Wichita. He loved his daily lunch and card game with friends. He was a past president (1986) of the Wichita Club in downtown Wichita. He was also a charter member of the Grumpy Old Men, an organization whose members raise funds for worthy causes in the area. Leonard and Sonny also greatly enjoyed the Murdoch Society. Leonard was creative and irreverent with a wonderful sense of humor. He didn't play it safe and he didn't hold back. He was willing to take risks. Leonard was a true entrepreneur. He was also a mentor. He really enjoyed talking with younger business people. He relished their energy and enthusiasm. He liked to challenge them with questions and was quick with advice. When they succeeded, he was truly happy for them. He loved his family and business. He had the ability to find humor in life's challenges and face them head on with optimism and strength. Success and respect were important to Leonard and he earned them both. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Milton and Albert; and his beloved wife, Sonny. Leonard is survived by his three daughters, Susan (William) Popplewell of Kansas City, Terry Mueller of Dallas, Linda of the fine staff at Regent Park. The family can never thank you enough for all you have done to help care for Dad. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to The Wichita Children's Home, 810 N. Holyoke St., Wichita, KS 67208. Share tributes online at: www.dlwichita.com