Fred Leonard

Fred Leonard, 79 years old, of Hot Springs, Ark., passed away on July 2, 2023.

He was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Luke and Mary Leonard. He graduated from high school in Wauwatosa, Wis., and from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1970 with a degree in political science. While working at the Wauwatosa YMCA, he met and married Kay Fuerbringer on Dec. 10, 1966.

Fred’s career with the YMCA spanned five states and 39 years, finally retiring in 2004. During his life, he dedicated his time to public service, volunteering for numerous associations, including Y’s Men International where he served as U.S. president from 2007-2009; during this time, he traveled to six different countries. He also enjoyed working with Youth Leadership Hot Springs.

Fred was preceded in death by his brother, John Leonard, and sister-in-law, Sharon Leonard; his sister, Mary Ellen (Honey) Gray; his son-in-law, Stan DeGraffenreid; and his nephew, Gabe Leonard.

Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Kay, and their four daughters; brother, Dale Leonard (Kay Lynn); brother-in-law, Mike Gray; and sister-in-law, Chris Abresch (Dave). Fred was the proud grandfather of six grandchildren.

There will be a visitation held from 5-7 p.m. today July 7, 2023, at Gross Funeral Home.

A rosary service will be held starting at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, July 8, 2023, at St. Mary’s of the Springs Catholic Church, with a funeral Mass to follow.

Arrangements by Gross Funeral Home, Hot Springs, Ark.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hot Springs YMCA or St. Mary of the Springs Catholic Church in Hot Springs, Ark.