Jeff Leonard

Jeff Leonard, 50, passed away unexpectedly on July 18, 2026, in Ankeny, Iowa.

Jeff was a devoted husband, father, family member, and friend whose warmth, humor, and unmistakable personality left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He was intelligent, hardworking, and deeply loved. Jeff had a gift for making ordinary moments memorable, whether he was telling a story, sharing one of his famously terrible dad jokes, or making everyone around him laugh harder than they expected.

He found joy in the simple things: a glass of exceptionally sweet tea, a chocolate milkshake shared with someone he loved, time spent with family, and the opportunity to brighten another person’s day. His goofy sense of humor and larger-than-life presence could fill a room, and life often felt lighter when Jeff was nearby.

Jeff was also the person friends and family could call when something needed to be built, repaired, or figured out. He was always willing to lend his time, knowledge, and hands to a project, often accompanied by a story, a joke, and his favorite question: “You know what I’m saying?” It was a phrase that could drive everyone crazy at the time, but one they would now give anything to hear again.

Jeff was especially proud of his family. He loved his wife, Peggy, his daughter, Brynn, and his son, Brady, deeply. His presence in their lives can never be replaced. Jeff was surrounded by a village of people who loved and cared for him, more than he may ever have fully realized.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Peggy; his daughter, Brynn; his son, Brady; his siblings; many nieces and nephews; and numerous extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Maxine Leonard of Marshalltown, Iowa, his father, also of Marshalltown, and his brother, Allan Leonard of Rhodes, Iowa.

Although his passing leaves a silence his family never expected, Jeff’s memory will continue through the laughter he created, the stories he told, the things he helped build, the love he gave, and the ordinary moments that will forever remind those closest to him of his presence.

A visitation will be held Thursday, July 30th from 3:00 - 5:00 PM with a memorial service to follow at Mitchell Family Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family’s GoFundMe to assist with funeral expenses: https://gofund.me/8dbc8f7e5

Jeff’s life ended far too soon, but the love, laughter, and light he brought into the world will remain with his family and friends forever.

~ Lovingly written by family

Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted to care for Jeff and his family. To leave online condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com. Ph. 641-844-1234

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