Dr. Leonard Harry Donley, 96, passed in peace on May 31, 2021. Born with a twin brother (Lester) in McPherson, KS on December 6, 1924 to James B. Donley and Anna (Daily) Donley, he grew to adulthood in Kingman, KS, where he enjoyed many youthful adventures.
Leonard never met a man he couldn't make smile, a fish he couldn't catch, or a gall bladder he couldn't remove. As an Osteopathic physician and surgeon, he saved hundreds of lives, delivered countless babies and had patients that spanned 3 generations.
During WWII, he served in the Army Medical Corp where he also played trumpet in an Army dance band, entertaining troops and anyone with a taste for jazzy, jive music. Music was one of his great loves and when he put down his trumpet, he lent his voice to the church choir for many years.
He loved the outdoors and delighted his family with many vacations, teaching them to love it as much as he did. Many of his fondest memories were of time spent at his beloved Cabin in Kingman County where he reveled in time spent with family gatherings, fishing, hiking, observing wildlife and, of course, mowing.
People were drawn to Leonard's one-of-a-kind charm and personality, while his great memory for jokes entertained just about anyone around.
He was a devoted family man, a loving husband, a great Dad, and true adventurer.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 71 years, Helen (Scharf) Donley, his brother Lester, 2 sons Keith (Susan) and Bruce Donley, daughter Denise (Leon) Seiwert, 5 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at Westwood Presbyterian Church on Saturday, June 5th at 10:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to Westwood Presbyterian Church - Music Department.
DONATIONS
Westwood Presbyterian Church8007 West Maple Street, Wichita, Kansas 67209
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