Loretta Leonard, age 84, born on October 10, 1939, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2024 at Ridgewood Specialty Care in Ottumwa. A compassionate, dedicated, empathetic, and generous soul, she was a beacon of light in the lives of those who knew her. She was a resident of Ottumwa, Iowa, where she lived a life filled with love, laughter, and grace. Loretta was a devoted wife, homemaker, and an ardent lover of animals and nature, especially cats and deer that frequented her backyard.
Married on April 12, 1976, Loretta and her beloved husband, Bob Leonard, shared a unique bond of love, respect, and mutual understanding. Their happy home was a testament to Loretta’s dedication and selfless love. She was also a wonderful cook, and her culinary skills were enjoyed by all who had the pleasure of dining at her table. She was an active member of the Pentecostal Church and cherished the moments she spent watching WWE wrestling with her husband. Above all, what mattered most to Loretta was her husband, son, and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Survivors include her husband, Bob Leonard of Ottumwa, son, Lee McCalester; 2 grandchildren, Zack and Joel, and three great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Dean and Lucille Kruse, son, Mitchel, 1 infant brother, and brother, William Kruse.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at 10:00 am at the Sinnott Funeral Home in Ottumwa, Iowa. A graveside service will follow at 11:30 at the Ottumwa Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to family.
As we remember Loretta, let us celebrate the love she embodied and the lives she touched. We encourage all who knew her to share their memories and upload photos to the memorial page. Her legacy will live on in the beautiful memories she has left behind, and she will continue to inspire us with her compassionate spirit.
