Leon Ray Schnack

Dr. Leon Ray Schnack, 80, of Port Orange, FL, passed away peacefully on Oct. 17 surrounded by his wife of 56 years, Mary Kay, and his two sons, Derek and Andy.
Leon was born in Tipton, IA, on March 26, 1945, to Reldo K. Schnack and Leona M. Schnack (Gehrls) and grew up on a farm outside Tipton, attending United Church of Christ in Bennett, IA with his family. Leon developed a love of animals at a young age, working on the family farm and as an active member of the local chapter of 4H. He attended Tipton High School and was a proud Tipton Tiger, playing football and baseball. He attended Iowa State University (ISU) for undergraduate and Veterinary Medical School, graduating with his DVM in 1969. Following vet school, he served in the US Army as the base veterinarian at Fort Knox, KY for 4 years before moving to Golden Valley, MN. He owned Lyndale Animal Hospital in Minneapolis for nearly 40 years.
While attending ISU he met the love of his life, Mary Kay (Nosbish). They were married on June 28, 1969, in Cedar Rapids, IA. Together they welcomed Derek in 1972 while stationed at Ft. Knox, KY, and then Andy in 1975 to their longtime home in Golden Valley, MN. He enjoyed flying, golfing, and hunting with his many friends and family. He was a member of Golden Valley Country Club for over 25 years and was an active board member for many of those. Following the sale of the veterinary practice, Leon and Mary Kay moved to Spruce Creek Fly-in Community in Port Orange, FL where he was able to continue two of his passions, flying and golf, and served as an active member of the board. Additionally, he loved hosting friends and family, especially his five grandkids, who were his pride and joy. He also loved his many springer spaniels and miniature schnauzers through the years.
Leon was preceded in death by his parents, Reldo and Leona, and brother-in-law, Denny Eilers. He is survived by his sons Derek (Jessica) and granddaughters Zoe and Daphne, and Andy (Natasha) and grandkids Joey, Madeline, and Nicky – all of whom will miss him dearly. He is also survived by two loving sisters, Karolyn Kleppe (Donn) and Belva Schamberger (Duffy). Additionally, he will be fondly remembered by his large extended family of in-laws and nieces and nephews and countless others he touched throughout his life.
At 10:00am on November 3 a funeral mass will be held at St. Olaf Catholic Church (215 S 8th St, Minneapolis, MN 55402), with visitation one hour prior. Upon conclusion of the mass, an interment ceremony will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the The Parkinson's Foundation or Alzheimer's Association for research are appreciated.