Robert Emmett Leonard Jr., 63, of Farmington Hills, died Monday, June 10, 2024 in Troy. He was born March 20, 1961 in St. Louis, Mo., the son of Robert and Carol (Tiefenbrum) Leonard.
Robert began his education in Missouri, first at St Clare of Assisi, then attended De Smet Jesuit High School, before moving to Leonard, Michigan in 1977, where he graduated from Romeo High School in 1979. After high school, Robert went to Michigan Technological Institute in Houghton where he graduated six years later with a degree in engineering.
Robert joined the Peace Corps, where he served for four years. During his time in the Peace Corps, he went to Liberia, Africa, in the village of Zor Zor, lived in a hut, built wells, and helped plant and set up irrigation for crops. He also helped a family buy a bus, so they could have a source of income. He worked for General Dynamics for 20 years, helping to develop safer military vehicles.
Robert was very active, and enjoyed playing golf, hockey, baseball, softball and football. He also played trivia at the bar with friends every week and also played Dungeons and Dragons weekly with friends. He had a very giving nature, and was generous with his time, money and talents; he was an active member of his homeowner’s association for 15 years, and gave money to 15-20 charities.
Visitation: 2-8 p.m., Monday, June 17 at the Henry M. Malburg Funeral Home, Romeo.
Funeral services: 10 a.m., Tuesday, June 18 at St. Clement of Rome Catholic Church, Romeo. A horse drawn hearse will bring Robert to the church from the funeral home.
