May 12, 1939 – January 2, 2026
Charles Guy Leonard, 86, of Fresno, California peacefully entered into his Heavenly home with his Lord Jesus Christ on January 2, 2026. Charles was reunited with his beloved wife, Kathy, with whom he shared 65 wonderful years of marriage.
Charles was born on May 12, 1939, in Dove Creek, Colorado, to Glen Guy and Una Leonard. In his early childhood his family moved to Caruthers, California and began farming. Charles showed an interest in farming from an early age and enjoyed farming vineyards in the Caruthers area for nearly 60 years.
Charles met the love of his life, Kathy, in his senior year of high school. They married in 1960, and enjoyed doing life side by side—farming, raising children, welcoming grandchildren, and creating a home filled with faith, love, laughter, and devotion until Kathy’s passing just a few months ago.
Charles was a devoted husband, a proud father, a cherished Papa, and a loving brother. His life was marked by deep faith, unwavering love for his family, and a presence that brought comfort, laughter, and strength to those who knew him.
Charles was preceded in death by his wife Kathy. He is survived by his daughter, Kristi Knevelbaard, and her husband Mike; his son, Michael Leonard, and his husband Dan; his granddaughter, Karissa Chacon and her husband Reyes, and grandson Kasey Knevelbaard. He is also survived by his sisters, Glynna Fenske and her husband Jeff, and Cheryl Greene and her husband Alan and many nieces and nephews.
Charles will be remembered for his kind and gentle manner, his sweet spirit, love, humor, and special place he held in the hearts of his family. His legacy lives on through those he loved so deeply and who loved him in return.
The Leonard Family would like to thank the amazing staff at Oyuna Hospice and Paintbrush Memory Care for taking such wonderful care of Charles and Kathy. The gentle care and extreme love shown to the Leonard family has been a true blessing.
A Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday January 15, 2026 at Easton Presbyterian Church, 5895 S Elm Ave, Fresno, CA 93706.
