Don Orville Leonhart

Don Orville Leonhart, a loving and truly devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend to all, passed away surrounded by loved ones February 24, 2026. He was a remarkable patriarch to his family, who will forever cherish his memory.

Don was born on June 27, 1933, in Oklahoma City to his parents, Arthur Orville and Lala Leonhart. He graduated from Classen High School in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, in 1951. On July 15, 1953, he married Miss Winelle Anna Faye Higdon at the Christian Church Parsonage in Edmond, Oklahoma. Two days later, he enlisted in the Army and served in active duty from 1953 to 1955.

In 1964, he graduated from West Texas State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology and pursued a lifelong career as a landman. His remarkable talents and interests encompassed art, history, reading, and jazz music appreciation. He enjoyed camping, fishing and following his grandkids’ college sports teams.

He retired from the oil and gas industry but still pursued many other interests. He had a true passion for his devoted family. He touched everyone he met with the tender hands he used to build his loving marriage and family. He led a distinguished and full life filled with happiness joyous memories and many smiles. His legacy will live on through his wife of 72 years, Nell Leonhart.

Don is survived by his wife Nell; children Michael Leonhart, Linda Packard (Mark), Steven Leonhart (Lori); grandchildren Johnathan Leonhart (Jill), Jennifer Silhan (Dustin), Leah Packard (Josh Adkins), Katelin Wood (Nathan), Courtney Leonhart, and Ryan Leonhart. Great grandchildren Addison Leonhart, Bailey Leonhart, Ella Silhan, Krew Silhan, Beckett Silhan, Bennett Wood, Hudson Wood, Loren Adkins.

There will be a funeral service to celebrate Don's life at 10:00 a.m., Friday, March 27, 2026, at Allen Family Funeral Options; with a reception to follow.

Don will be laid to rest with military honors at the Dallas-Ft Worth National Cemetery, Dallas, Texas.