Leonard’s life began on Nov. 20, 1937, in Dowagiac, the son of Garver M. and Maybelle (Cornelius) Wilds.

Leonard was a member of the Dowagiac Moose Lodge and Dowagiac First United Methodist Church.

He served his country in the U.S. avy aboard the USS Persistent during orea. Leonard was a retired tool and die maker.

He was united in marriage to the former Constance Cox on Dec. 19, 1993, in Dowagiac.

His loving family includes: his wife,Constance of Dowagiac; four children, Earl (Cindy) Wilds of Dowagiac, Lynn Lutz of Decatur, Lisa Wilds of Paw Paw and Chester (Cindy) Wilds of San Antonio, Texas; five stepchildren, Carol Primley of Dowagiac, Carl (Lori) Ruff of Dowagiac, Michael (Julie) Ruff of Dowagiac, Micheal (Julie) Ruff of Dowagiac, Richard Ruff of Dowagiac and Timothy (Jessica) Ruff of Dowagiac; numerous grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Leonard, 73, passed away on Monday, July 18, 2011, at The Timbers of Cass County.

He is preceded in death by his parents. His family will gather with friends on Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m. at Yazel and Clark Chapel.

His funeral service will be at 10 a.m. on Thursday at Dowagiac First United Methodist Church led by the Rev. John Kasper.  He will be laid to rest with Navy honors in Mission Hills Cemetery, Niles.  Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Leonard at www.yazel-clark.com.