Obituaries

Leonard J. Michel

Leonard J. Michel, 86, of Bella Vista passed away at Legacy Village, Bentonville, on Aug. 11, 2014. Leonard was born on Jan. 13, 1928, in rural Boone County, Iowa, to George and Clara (Peter) Michel. After high school graduation, Leonard served two tours in the U.S. Army. Leonard married Jo Ann Olson at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Boone County, Iowa, in 1950. Leonard was employed by the USDA from 1953-1986 and retired to Bella Vista. Leonard was a member of United Lutheran Church, Bella Vista, and golfed in several nine-hole leagues in Bella Vista. Leonard and Jo Ann were active in several local round dance clubs as well. Leonard was also an American Iris Society member, hybridizer and judge. Leonard is survived by his wife of 64 years, Jo Ann of Bella Vista; son, Kevin (Anne) Michel of Ames, Iowa; daughter, Kristie (Ferlan) Whaley of Lancaster, S.C.; grandson, Matt Michel of Ames, Iowa; and sister, Dorothy Tietjen of Hurst, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and a sister. Memorial service arrangements are pending with the Bella Vista Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bella Vista Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 5248, Bella Vista, AR 72714; or to charity of donor's choice.

Published August 27, 2014

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