Richard "Rich" Steven Leonard

Richard “Rich” Steven Leonard, of Independence, MO, a man who loved taking cruises, took his final trip on September 27, 2020. He was 57 years old. Rich was born on September 19, 1963 in Kansas City, Missouri, to Robert and Gloria Leonard. He attended Raytown High School, then went on to marry Janet Hoffman on July 23, 1983. Two children were born to this union: Josh and Stephanie. Rich and Janet renewed their wedding vows on their 25th anniversary.

He was a great father, husband and grandfather who loved family game nights and anything with his family. He lived in Independence for the entirety of his life and was a truck driver for 32 years. As a longtime member of the Bethel Baptist Church in Independence, Rich also took pride in driving the church van and was a toddler Sunday school teacher for several years.

He was a fun person with a silly personality and full of wit, but as a Boy Scout leader for Troop 492, Rich took that role seriously. He enjoyed watching movies, especially with his granddaughter, Kassadie. For over 30 years he went deer hunting with close friends, and he enjoyed making his special hamburger gravy that will be missed by many.

Rich is survived by his wife of 37 years, Janet Leonard; children, Josh (Jennie) Leonard and Stephanie (Steven) Grenawalt and granddaughter Kassadie. He was preceded in death by his parents Robert Joseph Leonard and Gloria Winona Leonard.

A Visitation will be held Thursday, October 1, from 6-8:00 p.m. at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E. 39th. St. in Independence, MO. A graveside service will be the following day, Friday October 2, at 10:00 a.m. at Oak Ridge Memory Gardens.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel (816) 373-3600)