Willard Emil Leinonen

Willard E. Leinonen, age 100, of Annandale, died Saturday, August 30, 2025, at the St. Cloud VA Medical Center.

Memorial Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 25, 2025, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Annandale with Pastor Alex Becker officiating. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. until the start of the service. Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 26, 2025, at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery near Little Falls.

Willard Emil Leinonen was born on the family farm in French Lake Township, Minnesota. He was the second-born child of Emil and Rauha (Luittio) Leinonen, growing up amid a large family of seven children. Willard's education began at the Myrback Schoolhouse, where he attended through the 8th grade. Although he did not necessarily enjoy the school setting, Willard's thirst for knowledge lasted a lifetime. He was an avid reader his entire life. Memorials are preferred to Minnesota Pioneer Park in Annandale.

At the age of 18, he proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving during World War II-a testament to his courage and commitment to his country. Following his honorable service, Willard returned to his roots, marrying the love of his life, Kathleen Lois Rassat, on June 26, 1947, at St. Timothy Catholic Church. Together, they raised six children, building a life rich with love, laughter, and devotion. In addition to his lifelong dedication to farming, Willard pursued various roles as a machinist, mechanic, and manufacturer.

He was not only a farmer but also an innovative creator; he took pleasure in making many things including spinning wheels that transformed wool into yarn and implementing solar power, celebrating his love for craftsmanship. His skill was also evident in the two homes he built over his lifetime and the many vehicles he built and restored. Willard and Kathleen also managed Pioneer Park, where their shared passion for community flourished. They were avid square dancers and participated in numerous Annandale 4th of July parades. As an adventurer, Willard relished time spent waterskiing and traveling across the United States, Mexico, Ireland, and Finland.

He is survived by his children Steven (Helen) of Annandale, Sheila (Russ) Demarais of Swatara, Sharon (Marvin) Lucas of Maple Grove, Gail Sindt of Vadnais Heights, and Gwenn (Matthew) Elmblad of L'Anse, MI; 19 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Margaret Groop of Annandale and Peter (Judy) Leinonen of Elk River; and many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. Willard was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Kathleen; son, Gerald; siblings, Mary Eleanor, Norma, Marian, and Daniel.

Paul Leinonen, Scott Holm, Garrett Leinonen, Nicole Kapinos, Bridget Helwig, Dr. Lauren Elmblad will serve as urn bearers. Arrangements entrusted to Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Annandale.

Obituary, Guestbook, Video Tribute, and Funeral Webcast online at www.dingmannfuneral.com