Leonard Lee Burgess, 74, of Pilot Rock, passed away Sept. 15, 2023.

Leonard, son of Wanda Channel, was born in Olney, Mont., on Jan. 19, 1949. Upon graduating from high school, Leonard was drafted into the Army. He served our country in the Vietnam War. He received the following medals for his service, The Air Medal and The Army Commendation Medal. 

He was honorable discharged with the rank of Specialist Four. He continued serving our country in The National Guard. He was honorable discharged August of 1976. Leonard was a proud Army Veteran.

Leonard married Diane Williams in 1973. He helped raise her two sons, Phil and Tony. They soon referred to him as dad. Leonard taught them to hunt and fish.

Leonard married Terri Foster in 1994, and soon after, they moved to Pilot Rock. Leonard worked for many years in the lumber industry. He retired from the Oregon State Penitentiary as a Boiler Room Operator. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, reading and playing cribbage.

Leonard was preceded in death by his mother, Wanda; and wife, Terri. He is survived by his stepson, Phil and daughter-in-law, Celia, his grandchildren, Brandon and Bridget, stepson, Tony; sister, Peggy; brother’s, Gerald, Lester, Marvin and Melvin. He leaves behind many friends, especially the Thirsty Thursday Crew.

Leonard will be greatly missed. Graveside service will be held Oct. 27, at 2 p.m., at the Pilot rock Cemetery.