David Leno

David Arnold Leno, age 83, of Dallas, Oregon, walked on December 5th, surrounded by the love of his family. A proud Grand Ronde tribal member, David lived a life shaped by hard work, tradition, and deep connections to the land and people of his home.

David was born on October 27, 1942, in McMinnville, Oregon, to Arnold Leno and Maxine McKnight. After high school, David joined the Army and served from 1962 to 1965 where he attended diesel mechanic school. He carried his veteran status with pride.

In 1967, he married Lyn Simonson. They had two daughters, Lisa Leno and Dana Ainam, both of Salem, Oregon. David built a career in the timber industry as a logscaler, a profession he took great pride in. Early on, he moved his family from Tillamook to Cathlamet, Washington, where he worked for Crown Zellerbach. Those years became some of the most treasured. Neighbors grew into lifelong friends – people who became family. Their days were filled with camping trips, golfing, and countless community moments. During this time, David coached wrestling and softball, roles that he fondly remembered.

In 1986, the family moved to Roseburg, Oregon, where David continued his work as a bureau logscaler up to retirement in 2005. Roseburg became another cherished chapter, filled with strong friendships and a home built with love where family and friends often gathered. David and Lyn proudly sent their daughters to Oregon State University. Their "quiet" years were spent enjoying golfing, horseback riding and events, and many vacations.

In recent years, David and Lyn returned "home", reconnecting with family and lifelong friends. The last years brought them closer to their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sharing countless celebrations and simple moments together.

David leaves behind a wide and loving family circle that includes: Lyn Leno, Lisa Leno, Mataya, Kohana, Tianna, Marcial, David, Tayah and David Jr., Serenity and Marcial Jr., Dana and Arsenio Ainam, Anesia, Kaven, Nya, Justice, Raven, Markus and Jaxon, Bob Leno, Dorothy Leno, and Denise Harvey.

David is also remembered by extended family and friends whose lives were touched by his humor and gentle kindness.

Bollman's Tribute Center is caring for the family.