He grew up in Dilworth, Minnesota, where he graduated from high school. He entered into the U.S. Navy where he served during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged and returned to Minnesota, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in teaching from Moorhead State College.
On August 9, 1954, he married Carolyn Mae Leverson in Dilworth. She died on July 1, 2011.
In 1964, they moved to Greeley. Leonard received his Master’s degree from Colorado State College (now University of Northern Colorado). He taught in numerous schools in Greeley as a teacher, coach and referee. After his retirement, he and his wife made trips to Tucson during the winter months.
Leonard loved to play golf. He had numerous awards for coaching and refereeing. He enjoyed breakfast at Roasty’s Restaurant, having coffee with his friends and Sunday dinners with his daughter’s family.
Leonard is survived by his daughter, Lynn Bassett-Haug (Chris); son, Steven Varriano; grandchildren, BriAnne Zamora (Jeremy), Regina Haug, and Nicole Haug; great-grandchildren, Bailey and Adaline; and 6 sisters and 3 brothers.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Carolyn, 5 brothers and sisters.
Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 4, 2020 with Recitation of the Rosary at 7:00 p.m. both at Stoddard Funeral Home, 3205 West 28th Street, Greeley. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 5, 2020 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 2222 23rd Avenue, Greeley. Interment Sunset Memorial Gardens.
