John L. Leonard

Commander John L. Leonard 1913 - 2007 Born Lake Placid, NY, in 1913, son of Frank S. Leonard and Elizabeth Ames Leonard. Died August 5, 2007. He attended St. John's Military Academy and graduated from Lake Placid High School. In 1932 he enrolled in the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business. He graduated in 1936 with a degree in business administration. He married Dorothy Lindley Engel in 1938. He then began a long career in the United States Navy as an aviator. He flew and instructed young Navy officers in many types of aircraft at various postings. He retired from the Navy in 1966. He established Leonard Travel Unlimited which he owned and operated, in downtown Oakland, for over 25 years. He and Dorothy traveled the world. In addition they pursued their hobby of breeding and showing purebred Yorkshire Terriers. They were regulars at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City for many years and enjoyed winning many ribbons. They were at a dog show the day of the tragic fire in the Oakland and Berkeley Hills. Their home and dogs survived so their home in Berkeley remained their residence. Dorothy's health declined in the late '90s. She died at age 86 on August 16, 2005. At her request there was no service. She was interred in Arlington National Cemetery. Commander Leonard stayed on in his Berkeley home with the help of his faithful attendant Ray Pacrin. Commander Leonard was the longest living member of the Naval order of the United States. He also belonged to Quiet Birdman, the Oakland Service Club and the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America. Commander Leonard wished no service. He will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery. He has no surviving relatives. In lieu of flowers please give to Lake Placid High School, Lake Placid, NY.