William Leonard

William Leonard, age 74, of Baxter, MN, formerly of Herscher, IL, passed away unexpectedly after a short illness on September 12, 2025, in St. Cloud, MN.

Visitation will be Friday, October 3, 2025 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. Services will be held on Saturday October 4, 2025 at 10:00am at Schreffler Funeral Home in Kankakee, IL. A private burial will follow at South Pleasant View Cemetery in Kewanee.

William was born on September 24, 1950, to Lowell and Jean (Bostic) Leonard. He earned his master’s degree and dedicated more than 30 years to teaching Junior High Science at Herscher Grade School. In addition to his work in the classroom, William also served as a basketball coach and a bus driver, enriching the lives of countless students. Being a grandpa and attending his grandchildren’s events was his greatest joy.

Following his retirement, he moved to Minnesota, where he enjoyed cycling, camping, fishing, and spending time in the outdoors. William was also deeply committed to his community, volunteering with the Salvation Army Food Shelf and Habitat for Humanity.

He is survived by his children, Brian (Patty) Leonard of Downers Grove, IL, Cara Hunt of Peotone, IL, and Amanda Cline of Brainerd, MN; his grandchildren, Leo, Dylan, Dakota, and Mason Leonard, Brooke and Lance Johnston, and Drew, Lucas, and Carter Cline; his brother Steve (Marilyn) Leonard; and his sister Karen Cedarmoon.

William was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara, and his parents, Lowell and Jean Leonard.

Arrangements are with Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Baxter, MN.