Kenneth Frank Leonard, age 90, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026, in McKinney Texas, just days shy of his 91st birthday.  He was born on February 28, 1935 in Pine River, Minnesota, to Frank and Mabel (Holt) Leonard.

In 1954, Kenneth proudly joined the United States Marine Corps.  He carried the Marine spirit with him throughout his life, believing, "Once a marine, always a Marine."  During his service, he was stationed in Japan, Hawaii, and California — experiences that helped spark his lifelong love of travel and adventure.  His strength, loyalty, determination, and the need to be "right" were hallmarks of his character and guided him both personally and professionally.

Kenneth spent many years working as a dedicated truck driver, recording over 3 million miles.  His career perfectly suited his love of the open road.  He retired in 2006 at the age of 71 and often said that if he had known retirement was this much fun, he would have done it many years earlier.  Over the last 20 years of his life, he fully embraced the freedom to explore, living by the phrase, "No destination, just passing through."

He put more than 420,000 miles on his beloved final truck, which he purchased specifically for travel.  He would often say he "loved that truck," and anyone who knew him understood just how much he meant it.  As he traveled down the highway he would hum contentedly to the stead sound of the engine.  Whenever he began planning a new adventure, he would say he was getting "itchy feet," eager to see what waited down the next highway.  He was always looking forward to the next trip, the next cruise, the next destination — or simply the joy of the journey itself.

He was especially excited to know that his treasured truck would be going to a good home, continuing to roll down the highway as he always intended.

For the last 10 years of his travels, he was joined by his faithful traveling pal, Brenda Moore.  Together they shared many miles, memories, and moments of joy on the open road.

Kenneth loved life fully and wholeheartedly and lived with no regrets, with the exception of his goal to live to 100. He cherished time with family and friends, especially when it included sharing stories, laughter, and an adult beverage.  His warmth, humor, and love of a good "dad joke" left lasting impressions on everyone who knew him.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Donna (Guider) Leonard, his daughter, Mary Livingston (David); his son, Kenneth Paul "KP" Leonard; his granddaughter, Journey Lee Leonard; and his parents, Frank and Mabel Leonard.

His is survived by his three daughters:  Sherry Lepacik (Robert), Cary Wasinger (Dave), and Katie Oates (Scott); three grandchildren, Marc Livingston (Ashley), Connor Oates, and Cooper Oates; two great-grandchildren, Gregory Livingston and Lilian Livingston; his sister, Norma Schwersinske (Gene); and many nieces, nephews, and other cherished family members.

Kenneth's life was defined by service, hard work, and adventure.  Though he may now have reached his final resting place, his spirit will forever be "just passing through" the hearts and memories of those who loved him.

In Lieu of Flowers donations can be made to VFW Post 7873, 250 VFW Drive, Pottsboro, Texas 75076. (903) 786-2400

A visitation will be held at 12pm. March 28, 2026, at American Funeral Service.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1 P.M., March 28, 2026, at American Funeral Service, Denison, Texas.