William Leonard

Dr. William H. Leonard, DVM; husband of Hon. Eleanor H. Leonard for 57 years passed away on March 6, 2022. Born September 4, 1937 in Colorado Springs, CO. Graduating from Colorado State University of Veterinary Medicine. He was a friend to animals, a true "James Harriot," dedicating much of his life to their health and care. He practiced veterinary medicine in Colorado and Pocatello, Idaho before moving to Lexington, Kentucky in 1969 to become a resident veterinarian at Hamburg Farm.  Later he opened his own practice, Leonard's Pet Clinic, caring for many animals small and large throughout the state of Kentucky. 

 Known as “Bill” or “Doc” to many, also had a deep appreciation for ranching and rodeo. He was an athlete and became a national champion in the team calf-roping. Always friendly, laughing, and ready to share a story, William had many hobbies and interests to keep him busy. In addition to being an active member of the AVMA and NFLCC. His love for antiques and collecting kept him searching for fishing lures, bottles, and antiques at many garage sales, antique malls, and conventions.   He enjoyed hunting and cherished the memories he made with family and friends out in the field and took pleasure in spending his days bird watching and fishing at the family cottage in Corinth, KY or cheering on the UK Wildcats. He was also a dedicated member of the Second Presbyterian Church.  

He was a family man, a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, and grandfather. He had many nieces and nephews and loved them and their children with all his heart no matter the distance. He is survived by 2 sisters Joyce Rector and Virginia Daniels; 3 daughters: Dr. Margie Leonard Garrett, DVM, Kathleen Leonard Cekirge (Hakan), Amy Leonard Monday, PT. 6 Grandchildren: Nikki Leonard, Joshua Jackson, Daniel Garrett, Colleen Jackson, Kemal Cekirge, and Kaan Cekirge. Preceded in death Hon Eleanor H. Leonard (wife), Elizabeth Marie Leonard (daughter), and Jane Leonard Green (sister).

Please consider a donation to United Way of the Bluegrass; 100 Midland Ave., Ste. 300; Lexington, KY 40508 (www.uwbg.org); Second Presbyterian Church (www.2preslex.org); or American Cancer Society, Inc (donate.cancer.org).

A Memorial Service will be held on Sat, April 2, 2022 at 11am at Second Presbyterian Church; 460 East Main Street; Lexington, KY.

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