William "Mike" Leonard

William Michael Leonard, aged 70, passed away on December 21, 2024, in Wilmington, NC. He was born on November 3, 1954, to Lois and Bill Leonard, who preceded him in death as well as his grandson Micha.
William, known as Mike, graduated from Cummings High School, where he met his high school sweetheart Karen and were married in 1978. He later earned an associate's degree from Elon Community College. He proudly served in the US Army, dedicating himself to the values of loyalty and service. Mike's career spanned various industries; he worked for the Yellow Pages for 15 years before transitioning to the automotive business for over two decades. Later in life, he worked as a subcontractor for a local realty company.
Mike was a man of many interests and was particularly passionate about outdoor activities. He was an avid surf fisherman, often found casting lines at Carolina Beach and participating in numerous tournaments. He also enjoyed bowling and was a regular league player at Cardinal Lanes until health challenges intervened. Golf was his true passion; as a member of the Beau Rivage Country Club, he cherished the time spent on the green with his "golf family."
Described as positive, caring, and humorous (always had a good dad joke), Mike was a hardworking individual who deeply loved his family. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Karen; children, Aleisha, Shane (Keishia), Tiffany (Forrest), Josh (Anna), and Justin; siblings, DeeDee, Janice (Skeeter), Steve, Tony, and Doug; and his adored granddaughters, Aislin and Callie and his newest grandson Dawson. Mike especially loved his grandchildren, and the bond he shared with them will be cherished forever.
A celebration of Mike's life will be announced at a later time.