David F. Leonard

Highland – David F. Leonard, age 71, of Avoca / Highland area, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones on June 17, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer. David was born in Dodgeville, Iowa County, on July 27, 1953, the son of Francis E. Leonard and Angeline C. Leonard (Nihles). Dave’s deep connection to the outdoors brought him joy throughout his life. He enjoyed hunting and fishing--pastimes that connected him to the land, to family and friends, and to some of his favorite memories. Whether in a tree stand at sunrise, casting a line into a gentle stream, or watching hummingbirds and deer from his wooded hilltop home, he was happiest when surrounded by the beauty and serenity of nature. Dave dedicated 50 years to his work as a skilled carpenter and found joy in life’s simple pleasures—taking walks outdoors, playing checkers, spending cherished time with his grandchildren, reading, grilling out, doing Sudoku puzzles and going for country drives. In 2018, David miraculously survived a prolonged cardiac arrest—thanks to the quick-thinking and heroic actions of Chad Miess, who provided lifesaving bystander CPR, and the effective response by the Iowa County Sheriff's Department, whose use of a defibrillator restarted his heart and brought him back. His survival was also shaped by the combined actions of Bryan Marty, the late John Yager, and the teams at Dodgeville EMS, Upland Hills Emergency Room and UW Hospitals Cardiac Intensive Care Unit. These dedicated efforts gave David the gift of a full recovery and seven more vibrant and meaningful years, for which his loved ones will be forever grateful. He later faced lung cancer and then esophageal cancer with quiet bravery and steadfast stoicism. Even in the face of hardship and when the odds were stacked against him, he never stopped fighting. His unwavering strength, resilience and quiet determination will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He is survived by his partner, Susan Miess, whose companionship, love and support were a constant source of strength during his life and throughout his illness. He is also survived by his children Matthew Leonard of Mineral Point, Aimee Leonard (John Kole) of Andover, MA and James Leonard (Kirstin Lawinger) of Avoca, his ten siblings, Rosemary (Roger) Shrader of Milton, James Leonard of Highland, Char (Mike) VanKeuren of Waunakee, Thomas (Marina) Leonard of Tbilisi, Republic of Georgia, Mark (Tracey) Leonard of Viroqua, Donna (Steve) Washa of McFarland, Susan (Craig) Stamm of Evansville, Karen (Ron) Berg of New Glarus, Edward (Cindy) Leonard of Hollandale and Jeff (Brenda) Leonard of Linden, and his beloved grandchildren Elaine, Kleine, Henry, Vivienne, Kennison and Kieler and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Angie Leonard. His loved ones are deeply grateful to his nurse, Felicia, and the Upland Hills Hospice team for their compassionate care and support during his final weeks. Their kindness and dedication brought him comfort and peace. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 22, 2025 at GORGEN-McGINLEY & AYERS FUNERAL HOME in Dodgeville. Following the visitation, family and friends are invited to an informal gathering for food and fellowship at Dodger Bowl, 318 King Street, Dodgeville to share memories and honor his life. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to the Iowa County Cancer Coalition or Upland Hills Hospice.

David F. Leonard

July 27, 1953 - June 17, 2025