Robert G. Leonard

Robert George Leonard
August 26, 1947 – June 26, 2025
Born and raised on the east side of Detroit Bob was a 1965 graduate of Osborn High School. He was drafted into the Army in 1966 and served honorably until 1968. In 1970 Bob landed his dream job working for Stroh's Brewery in Detroit as a brewer until they closed in 1985. His adventures found him at Modern Prototype working shipping and receiving, driving a truck. After another layoff he landed at Severstal Steel (aka Rouge) where his career ended in the early 2000s.
In 1983 Bob and Crystal met and had an instant connection. That flame grew and on Valentine's Day in 1997 they made the blending of their family official. Over the years the Leonard house in Harrison Township became the site of many Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas and whatever holiday (or mood) might prompt a gathering of beverages, food, family and friends.
Bob was known for his sharp memory of "the old days" and "old music" so much so that friends would call him to settle a bet. He loved sports, especially football, and many times you would find the self-proclaimed members of the Eastside Men's Club sitting around the table in the family room discussing plays or arguing stats and yelling at the refs. His love of music is legendary as long as it was made before 1965.
Bob loved the sunshine and the beach in Lexington, often walking along the shoreline for the elusive Petosky stone. He had an eagle eye for spotting them and he passed on his love of rock hunting to his children and grandchildren.
Bob was a big softie when it came to animals. The house was never without dogs (and a few cats) and many visits from one of the 6 "grand dogs". They all loved grandpa the "Treat Dealer". He leaves behind his buddies Abrams and Xander.
Although he suffered from chronic back pain and COPD ultimately affecting his ability to work in his beloved garden, he never lost his wicked sense of humor and love for his family and friends. He fought until the end and he is now at peace.
Bob leaves behind his loving wife and friend of 42 years, Crystal (Garbarino) Leonard, daughter Shawn (Leonard) & Alex DiCicco, son Bobby & Nichole (Sears) Leonard and his bonus-daughter Danita (Venuto) & Josh Orsborn. His beloved grandchildren Kirsten Leonard, Jake Leonard, Dakota Weathers, Marina DiCicco, Alexis DiCicco and Vivienne Orsborn, his mother-in-law Shirley Garbarino and extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Richard & Gloria (Beattie) Leonard, father-in-law Art Garbarino and granddaughter Olivia (Little O) Sears.
A Celebration of Life is being planned for the end of August, more details will follow.
Gifts or donations can be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation
or Detroit Dog Rescue (DDR)
Arrangements in care of Jowett Funeral Home-New Haven.