Search by Name

Search by Name

Leland Woodard Obituary


WOODARD,
Leland M.

Leland M. Woodard, who built wonderful custom homes in Everett, Washington, died from two gunshot wounds to the head, January 11, 2012 at the age of 52. Woodard was a very proud father, a first time grandfather, and a gifted carpenter. As a young boy he was bucked off of the family horse and broke his thumb. "I'll never ride horses again," he said going on to make the Harley Davidson his ride of choice. This passion precipitated the name of his first business venture, Hawg Construction Company. After moving to Washtucna, Washington in 1996, Woodard built custom homes in the Tri-cities area. In the months prior to his death he traveled for work to North Dakota while still a resident of the small town, operating a crane to care for his wife and daughter who stayed back in Washtucna. Woodard was born on Easter Sunday, March 29, 1959, in Ritzville, Washington, first born son of Leland C. Woodard and Sharon K. Jensen. He grew up on a 168 acre farm in the foothills of Mount Spokane and attended Riverside High School. He is survived by his wife, Becky, a postal carrier in Adams County; two daughters, Seanna Woodard of Phoenix, AZ, and Amanda Woodard of Washtucna, WA; a brother, Paul Woodard of Stanwood, WA, and three sisters, Cheryl Dore of Snohomish, WA, Wendy Woodard of Stanwood, WA, and Dana Woodard of Valley, WA and an eleven month old grandson, Adyn of Phoenix, Az. Woodard is preceded in death by his brother Christopher Woodard, born August, 28, 1972, died November 19, 1987, his grand- parents, Mike and Edna Austin of Washtucna, WA, and Victor and Eleanor Jensen of Lind, WA. In honor of his life, a memorial service is planned for January 22, 2012, at 1:30pm, Washtucna Community Church. A memorial is set up in honor of his two daughters and donations can be made at any US Bank. Known for strong work ethics, Woodard loved to fish. He'd take his employees and his brother on fishing excursions. He's described a friend to many and a help in time of need. Woodard traveled to New Orleans to help victims of Katrina and is said to have bought toys for neighborhood children because he saw the need.
Danekas Funeral Home-Ritzville is entrusted with arrangements.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Spokesman-Review from Jan. 19 to Jan. 20, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Leland Woodard

Sponsored by Sharon Woodard Ford.

Not sure what to say?





Darrell Rogers

June 18, 2024

I knew Leland in high school. He was one heck of a mechanic.
A true free spirit.

Sharon Ford

January 14, 2020

The time here on this earth passed so quickly but you and your brother's passing seems just like yesterday.
Life brings so many changes in our lives and hearts but one change we will never forget is the day we committed our hearts to Jesus ! That day He showed us that all things of earth pass away but in death there is no sting.
So glad Prayer is the key to Victory because of His hope shown to me all things we walk through have become possible and His strength in us is beyond measure.
Love you forever and Hope lies in what waits for me.
Mom

Dana

September 14, 2019

Hey Bro, just thinking about you today. Miss you

Dana

August 26, 2017

Thinking of you tonight bro, there are many things I need your help with. I know you and Tom would be all over that Hurricane in Texas. But instead I bet you are fishing with grandpa & Chris. Luv you

MARSHA WELCH

May 30, 2017

DEAR LELAND,
I DID NOT EVER GET TO KNOW YOU, BUT YOUR MOM SHARED WITH US ABOUT THE WONDERFUL SON YOU ARE TO YOUR DAD AND HER.
I KNOW THEY ARE GOING TO MISS YOU TERRIBLY, TILL THEY JOIN YOU SOMEDAY. SO TILL THAT TIME, THEY ARE GOING TO CHERISH ALL THE MEMORIES THEY HAVE OF YOU.
I WILL MEET YOU WHEN I GET WHERE YOU ARE AND THAT WILL BE A JOYIOUS TIME.
LOVE IN JESUS,
MARSHA WELCH A FRIEND OF YOUR FOLKS

May 30, 2017

Miss you Leland. Some great memories

Cindy King

May 28, 2017

Leland, You maybe be out of sight, but to those who love you You will always be in Our minds and Hearts... Till We meet again, Ride Free, Thumper Lee...

Sharon Ford

May 12, 2017

To you my son:?
My heart was broken when you left so suddenly but mostly because of the terrible tragedy that happened to you! This mothers heart could hardly handle the news of what you experienced. Not my son , please Dear God! The Lord knows my prayers for you were on going and I felt peace and assurance from our Lord when His Rainbow extended over your grave that day we said our final goodbyes. He knew it was time for you to go home and I know one day soon we will see each other again . Happy Mothers Day to me and every mother who prays for their children no matter how old we are or how old our children are ❤

Sharon Ford

December 3, 2016

Merry Christmas 2016 . My sons you have both been missed very much everyday . Leland and Christopher keep interceding for us here so that one day that graduation celebration will begin when we too get our wings ❤

Sharon Ford

April 13, 2016

Miss my sons everyday and wait on the precious Hope of Tomorrow

Love Forever, Mom

Wendy

March 29, 2016

Another year! I am letting you know we are going to be reaching out to you. Listen for us brother, and maybe Chris will talk too! Happy Birthday Leland!

Arieal Howland

March 20, 2016

Uncle I miss you every day. You were such an amazing uncle. I will always remember you as my uncle Thumper. Now you are up in heaven with my mom and probably looking down and laughing at me. I wish I would have stayed in contact more and I am sorry I didn't. I miss you and love you bunches uncle. I will see you again someday.

Love your niece
Arieal Deseray Howland

Dana Woodard

December 23, 2015

Missing you this Christmas Brother. Love you

wendy Woodard

April 1, 2014

Big Brother
Words can not tell how much I miss you. Happy Birthday. We are ordering your head stone April 18. We will have it there for summer. No matter the battles ahead of us. We will stay strong like you. Help us! Love ya
Wendy your little sis.

Mom

March 27, 2014

This candle I light today for you my son ! Your Birthday is in two more days so the memories flood my heart and teardrops spill down my cheeks . Visions of the Rainbow promise me that all is well with your soul.
Easter will not fall on March 29 this year. I know .. You knew that ?? ??. Love You , Happy Birthday in Heaven ??

Sharon Ford

February 24, 2014

?? Not a day goes by that this mother doesn't thank The Lord for answering my prayers for my children. You , Leland were my firstborn and because of your Birthday on Easter Sunday without a doubt Gods hand was on you and His timing is perfect . Your sister Cheryl did an awesome service for you through her tears . She confirmed to me that God had to take you home then because He had prepared your heart . We all miss what could have been ??

December 2, 2013

Think of you often especially when I look at our grandson, he does things I know came from your genes. He is a special little boy wish you could of met him, but rest assure that he will know you from me and your family. Miss you always. Love you Nita.

Seanna and your grandson in Hawaii 2013

Sharon Ford

November 25, 2013

Your daughter , Seanna in Hawaii 2013

Sharon Ford

November 25, 2013

Sharon Ford

November 25, 2013

Miss you my son .. Feel your eternal presence and your brother Chris everyday !

wendy woodard

November 25, 2013

Big Brother, love ya miss you!

Amanda

November 23, 2013

miss you dad

Cindy King

August 11, 2013

Hey Jimmy, Im sure Thumpers family would love to have you come join them on Facebook, just search for him under groups, using his given name.. it took everyone that loved him by total surprise.. such a loss..L&R Thumper...

August 10, 2013

I was looking for ya on fb brother, I wasn't aware this happened. im truly sadden. ill laugh for years at the time we had fishing and working together in Alaska, the trip home was a blast! godspeed thumper! your friend Jimmy Carpenter

My son I miss you , Love, Mom

January 23, 2013

wendy

December 30, 2012

Brother Leland
It is christmas and we all miss you, a year ago we visited and had pictures done! I have not heard from you in a while(not in my dreams) Hope you are well in heaven with brother chris! I am shedding tears now and the other day with dana. No justice yet! we miss you and so does Seanna. Love you brother!!

Jennifer Nelson

December 28, 2012

Leland, I cannot believe its almost been a year. I think of you often. I hadnt seen you in so long, but I will always remember growing up with you in my life. I hope you and my dad are enjoying eachothers company. You are missed.

Seanna Woodard

August 16, 2012

Anyone interested in sharing memories and photos or looking at what's been posted by others please go to www.facebook.com/InMemoryofLelandWoodard and click ‘Like” at the top of the page. We would love for everyone to join.
Thank you!

Venesa

June 23, 2012

Hey Uncle Lee we are headed to visit you today we are going to bring your flowers back to you today. see ya later miss you

Seanna

June 17, 2012

Wish u were here today... Happy Father's Day Dad.. I love and miss you. I know we had our ups and downs but you were a loving, caring father that I was lucky to have. And our ups and downs were only because we were so much alike and I'm very proud of that! Thinking of u always!

Carl Jensen

May 14, 2012

Leland's Family,
I was excited that Easter Sunday in 1959 when Leland was born 4 days before my 11th birthday. Imagine 10 years old and an uncle like my uncles who I always loved. About a month later I lost my dad to an accident, another life change. I think about him alot and what he and I missed out on as I grew up. About the same age as Leland when he passed.
We don't get to be replaced, just missed as his family will miss him for birthdays, holidays and special events.
As we grow older, it seems we are drawn to our own family and friends and have less time for those cousins and nephews and nieces that are around us. I still have first cousins I have never met.
I was watching my grandson two and his great grandfather 85 a few weeks ago in Wenatchee as they share the same birthday and am reminded of that phrase from the Lion King about the "great circle of life", that is how it is supposed to be, getting old and watching the next generations grow and achieve. But every once in a while this pattern is not followed and we are left to wonder why?
Memories are what life is made of, we will each have our own special ones, Leland is missed, God Bless and peace go with each of his family members and friends.

The home my sons built for me

Sharon Ford

May 12, 2012

My son Leland & Paul built me my home pictured here, in 1992 ! I praise the Lord for their talents that blessed me with this home that now I have sadly left behind and it is for sale.

Marsha Welch

April 27, 2012

Dear Sharon,
I just read about your Son's life and all I can say is WOW what a man. You raised a fantastic son and my heart crys with you over your loss. I know you will see him again and it is going to be fabulous forever with no more good byes. The Lord is taking good care of him and Leland is waiting for your arrival someday with arms wide open. He will even say, what took you so long. I am waiting to be reunited with my Husband and Mom and Dad and hundreds of family and friends too at the great reunion.
God BLess you and remember Jesus says it is for your tears I died. He has great and wonderful plans for all of us in our heavenly home . Plans that will never end.
I know your son is greatly missed by you and everyone who knows him and loves him.
With prayers and love I close.
Love in Jesus,
Marsha Nix Welch

Cindy King

April 25, 2012

Hey Thumper, what a wonderful message your niece wrote to you. It was a long hard road, Bro, wish u could have stayed a bit longer, u will be missed, Terribly, u Big Bad Biker you...LOL , as the younger generation says in the new fangled way to keep in touch with one another. Anyways Love & Respect, your Sister In the Wind always, see ya on the other side...Cin

Sitting on Uncle Leland's lap for the 1st time!

Jenna Siple

April 24, 2012

Uncle Leland,
To be honest I have avoided your guest book because I figured if I avoided it I wouldn't have to actually say "goodbye".... I don't quite feel ready for that even still and I am sure I never will.

I remember how much you used to scare me! At every family get together I would hide from you- well you and Grandpa- but that's because he used to rub my head, mess up my hair and call me "ghetti head". Man, I hated that!!

I remember when you had Mandy and you brought her to a family get togehter. She was the cutest and both Nesa and I wanted to hold her. She was just a baby. But, you wouldn't let us hold her unless we sat on your lap. I will never ever forget that day. You held us three girls on your lap and you weren't that scary after all. I was so proud of myself! I was like wow- I conquered the beast, I sat on the biker dude's lap!

About 5 years later my parents got the bright idea to take the tent trailer and go camping at Yellowstone. It sounded like a blast and Devin (my brother) and I were very excited. We made it to almost your neck of the woods and the car (yes CAR) overheated- go figure! Who did we call to the rescue. Big Bad Biker Dude Leland! We waited on the side of the road and Uncle Leland came to save us. Devin wanted to ride with you and I didn't want to be stuck in a car that I thought was going to blow up (I mean come on I was little what did I know?) so I road with you too and wouldn't you know it we survived the ride with you and we even had fun!

We stayed at your place for a while until they got the car working again and we swam in a kiddie pool in your front yard with Mandy! What an experience. We didn't make it to Yellowstone that year but I actually liked the pit stop at Uncle Leleand's house.

If there is one thing I have figured out about you it would be that the "Big Bad Biker Dude" that you pretend to be is the least thing from who you truly are. You care about others and help out anyone that you can. I only wish I knew you weren't that scary a long time ago and could have enjoyed more family get togethers rather than have hide from you.

I miss the way you laugh- with your tongue sticking out. I miss the way you act so rough and tough but deep down your heart is gigantic! You didn't deserve to go and we all miss you so deeply. You have the sweetest grandson! He is such a mini you! He would have absolutely loved you and it breaks my heart that he will miss out on having you in his life. We all keep your memory in our hearts and think of you often. Love you Uncle Leland.... and don't you dare think I will forget about you thumping me in the head like Nesa- I'll get you back when we meet again! I am an adult now and I had you as an Uncle- I promise I am not scared of you anymore! But, I do miss you..........

One of the High Lander I wish you could of seen them you would of loved them

Robin Woodard

April 23, 2012

Your grandson first birthday

Robin Woodard

April 23, 2012

Wendy Woodard

April 23, 2012

Hi Brother
Its been a hard journey for us all we miss you so much! I ve been doing alot of driving, and you are in my thoughts the whole time! You are the strong one and smart one and the one we could call on when we needed help. You are now in my dreams! when I have questions you now answer when I am sleeping, you do need to be a little clearer, it takes a professional to analize. We will get you Justice brother I promise, this is so wrong what happenedd to you and know you were fighting for your life. I am sorry we were not there to help! LOVE YA BROTHER MISS YOU SO SO SO MUCH! Little one a wake I be back to write more. Love you! Wendy

Sharon Ford

April 11, 2012

Easter came on Venesa's Birthday APRIL 8 this year. We celebrated the baptism of your sister Wendy and her daughter Venesa ( your niece ) . Your brother Paul came to see them get baptized and we feasted with family at Cheryl & Tim's , celebrating your heavenly journey and their baptism with the most wonderful glorious day of the year! Remembering your birth was on a beautiful sunny Easter Day !!
We love and miss you so much
Love Mom

Seanna

April 8, 2012

Happy Easter! Miss you...

Palouse Falls near Washtucna where Leland my son is buried

April 6, 2012

Seanna Woodard

March 29, 2012

Happy Birthday Dad! Hope your enjoying some Chinese food! We love and miss you so much

Venesa Cameron

March 7, 2012

Uncle Leland
When I was younger you were the scariest man, I would stay really close to my mom or to Seanna when you were around, your long hair, your Tattoos, your voice so loud. You would play tricks and tease Jenna and I, you would tell us to call you Thumper, and I was why thumper, well because I go around thumping people on the head, as you bopped me on the head, well I could never call you thumper it just wasn't right I told you thumper is Bambi's friend, he's a rabbit and you're not a rabbit, your scary. The older I got the more I got to know my uncle Leland and you were kind of like a rabbit because you weren't scary by any means. One family gathering as I walked into Grandma and Grandpas house, there was a man sitting in the recliner clean cut and clean shaved. I said Aunt Dana who is that, she said to me that is uncle Leland; WOW he looks amazing, that better fits his personality. Because Uncle Lee you were not even one bit scary, you were one of the most caring uncles, yes you were intimidating, but when I needed advise with boys that kept bothering me you were there to talk to, and I called you a liar because you told me, Nesa they really truly have a crush on you. Well turns out you were right, go figure. Then I was 18 and I wanted a tattoo, you told me Nesa you don't want tattoo's, look at my arms when you get older they are just a great big blob, you are too beautiful for that. I thank you Uncle Leland for that Advise. I really miss you, I'm glad I got to bring in the New Year with you, I just wish you were here to live out your plans you told me about, of going and seeing Neanna and Aydin. You would love your Grandson so much he is such a go getter, and rough and tough, looks just like his mom when she was little. Love you and miss you so much, every day I know you are watching all of us and still being that protector you are. Words can't describe how much we all miss you. Yes we will all make sure your grandson knows everything about his wonderful grandpa.
Love you so much Uncle Leland

March 7, 2012

Sharon,
So very sorry for your deep loss. Let Jesus Christ be your sustainer!
Love,
Rusty Riddle

Hurrol Goodwin

March 7, 2012

May family and God's love carry you on forever as you look ahead and keep going.

March 4, 2012

Sharon, words cannot tell you how much I care for you and admire you. Losing Leland was just unbearable I am sure. I cannot understand why this had to happen but I am here for you. He must be so special to God now. You are in my prayers always.

February 23, 2012

Sharon,so sorry for your loss.Wish we could take that heartache away.LUV & miss you &BILL.

Janette Ford

February 21, 2012

Sharon you and your family have been in our thoughts and prayers. Hold tight to all your wonderful memories. With Love, David and Janette

Seanna Woodard

February 17, 2012

I've never been great at words in these kind of times and it feels like putting it into words makes it more real. I love you Dad and I miss you with all my heart. I wish you were here so I could say everything to you that I never got a chance. You will always be in our hearts and will never be forgotten. Your grandson will know all the great things about his Grandpa and what a great heart he had and what a cool guy he was. I promise you that. The family and I will make sure Aydin knows his Grandpa. Now whether or not I let him have a motorcycle is another story...lol. I love you Dad! I think about you every minute.

Dana Woodard

February 11, 2012

Miss you Bro
Dana

SHARON FORD

February 6, 2012

Love from my heart had me sending you this rose bouquet today. My son you live in my heart forever just as Jesus' mother Mary felt in the loss of her son and I know you are safe in His hands now and with your youngest brother Christopher. Love to both of you ~ Hugs forever, Mom

February 4, 2012

Leland was the father of our daughter Seanna, who just happened to get his stubborn but loving and giving personality. We will miss him greatly. To the family we want you to know he was loved.

Nita

Kevin Moe

February 3, 2012

To the Family of Leland Woodard, Lee was a great person and brother to all. You will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

David Rossi

January 31, 2012

Little Dangerous, David Rossi Jr. I will have a place in my heart forever for you. I love you Thumper Lee..

Shannon Bergin Peterson

January 23, 2012

On a clear night look towards the sky and you will see there is a star that seems to twinkle brighter than? the others. That star is Leland smiling down on you. Peace be with you.

Larry & Linda Field

January 23, 2012

Our sincere sympathy to you Sharon, and all your family.. I cannot imagine losing a son and I know your heart must be breaking..God be with you all.

Rex King Jr.

January 22, 2012

To the family of Leland M. Woodard,
I am so sorry for your loss. I did not know Leland well, but I did know him. We exchanged greetings whenever we saw each other in the Tri-Cities when I lived there in the 90s. My prayers are with you, Leland's family. May the peace of God that passes understanding comfort you in your time of trouble, and grief.

Suzy Forgey

January 22, 2012

My deepest sympathy . Many hugs .

Juli Esposito

January 21, 2012

Seanna, Im so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. Xo

Barry Siple

January 21, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this very sad time. Our deepest sympathy, Kristine, Barry, and Austin Siple

Sharon Woodard - Ford

January 21, 2012

I will see you on the" Morning "
Love and loved you so much ,
Mom

Cindy King

January 20, 2012

Lee, I pray you have found peace. To your Family, may GODs Love give them comfort...You will be greatly missed..Love ya Bro...RIP

Sue & Mariah Grondin

January 20, 2012

My heart is filled with sadness for your family and very sad that Leland had to leave his loved ones. I know that he will be missed so much by his family and friends. I know God has opened his loving arms for Leland, as God promised, no more pain and suffering, only peace and comfort, and I leave with you God's Peace that passes all understanding.

January 20, 2012

There are no words to express our sorrows for you,at your time of loss.
George Popps

Bruce Dukes

January 20, 2012

this is a very sad thing to have happened to a good friend over the years. My best to all the Woodward family at this time.

Linda Webb

January 20, 2012

Sharon and Leland and family, I am so very sad to hear about the loss of your son. I wish I could be there for the service to give you all a hug but afraid of the snow and pass conditions. I will keep you in my prayers. Love Linda (Woodard) Webb and family

January 20, 2012

Becky and family, we are so sorry for your loss.Your in our thoughts-Chromie and Liz

Showing 1 - 68 of 68 results

Make a Donation
in Leland Woodard's name

Memorial Events
for Leland Woodard

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Leland's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Leland Woodard's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more