James Leonard Obituary James H. "Jim" Leonard, 68, of Merrifield, MN passed away after a courageous battle with lung cancer on Tuesday May 7, 2024 at Essentia St. Josephs Hospital. There will be a celebration of Jims Life at the Old Cabin on Saturday July 20, 2024 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. A light lunch and refreshments will be served. Please RSVP to Gayle at 612.227.5501 if you plan on attending. Jim was born on June 13, 1955 in Minneapolis; the son of David B. and Winifred (Pinkham) Leonard. He was a 1973 graduate of St. Paul Academy and a 1977 graduate of Coe College. Jim spent his childhood summers and adult weekends at "The Lake" near Brainerd; and was thrilled to make the north woods near his beloved family property his permanent residence with Gayle beginning in 2007. Jim loved being a dad, grandfather, and uncle. He loved playing golf and reading, and thoroughly enjoyed being a part time DJ for KLKS before it was sold in 2012. Jim was an avid Twins and NCAA basketball fan. Jim was gracious, charming, and witty. He had an unbeatable laugh and the sweetest smile. Jim is survived by his partner of 38 years Gayle Lunak; son Steven (Julia), and grandson Noah Leonard; sister Terrie (Tom) ODea; nieces Cara (David) Skluzacek, Kirsten (Lee) Pinkerton; nephew Nick (Nicole) ODea; grandnephews Benjamin Louis Pinkerton and Lucas James Skluzacek; his beloved cat BB; and many friends. Jim is preceded in death by his parents. Memorials preferred to the American Cancer Society,