Leonard Earl McKinster

Leonard Earl McKinster was born November 18, 1937 in Geary, Oklahoma to Roscoe and Edna Zweiacher McKinster. The family lived in Oklahoma for several years before moving to Denver, Colorado. He attended Beach Court Elementary School, Horace Mann Junior High School, and North High School, graduating in 1955.

After graduation, he studied at Colorado State University and was a member of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity. He graduated with a degree in Animal Sciences. Leonard then attended law school at University of Colorado Boulder and passed the bar exam. He found his passion in real estate, which he pursued for several years.

From an early age, Leonard had a fondness for animals, particularly horses. He found joy in working with horses, training and racing his own for years, and feeding them the peppermints he kept in his pocket.

Leonard delighted in watching his granddaughters grow up, always front row at their basketball games, volleyball games, musicals, and plays. The girls could count on “Papa” to show up for them.

Leonard enjoyed crossword and Sudoku puzzles. He also loved coming up with new culinary creations and was becoming quite the cook.

Leonard had been struggling with many health issues for several years. He passed away peacefully on December 3, 2023. He is survived by his wife of many years, Janice, son Scott (Michelle) McKinster, daughter Kari (Mark) Gurnsey, and granddaughters Kaitlyn and Emma Gurnsey. Leonard is also survived by his sisters Kathleen Jackson and Jeanette McKinster, nieces Kristen (Shane), Mackenzie, and Cassidy Herman, along with numerous cousins.

His close friends and family members would lovingly describe him as “unique”. He will be remembered and missed by many.

Rest in peace, Leonard.

Memorial services, officiated by Pastor Jim Diehl, will be held Thursday, December 28, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. Crown Hill Mortuary and Cemetery Chapel of Peace - 7777 W. 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 - located at the intersection of 29th Ave and Wadsworth Boulevard. Reception following services.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer’s Association.