Leonard Claude Johnson, 72, passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 19, 2017. He was born on March 19, 1944 in Seattle to Claude and Eva (Clifford) Johnson.

Following high school, Leonard completed two years of study at a local junior college. Leonard spent his career with Darigold as a truck driver, traveling the coastline with dairy products. In a country-western dance hall somewhere in California, he met the love of his life, Marie Costa. The tall drink of water swept her off her feet. They spent the next 40 years dancing through life.

Leonard and Marie raised four children together. He was an amazing husband and father. As a large man, he was truly a gentle giant. He was Marie's rock, always caring for her as she struggled with life-long diabetes. Together they enjoyed many camping, hunting and fishing trips. During these trips, they fell in love with the Colville area. When Leonard retired from Darigold in the early 2000's, they decided to move to the 12-Mile area to enjoy retirement.

They loved their time here, settling nicely into the little community. Always a generous, helping man, Leonard enjoyed assisting neighbors in any way he could, especially plowing in the winter months with his 4-wheeler. Leonard also loved food. Enjoying a meal with good company made any cuisine better.

Leonard was a family man whose love, laughter, dancing and kind-hearted, helping hand will be greatly missed.

Leonard is survived by his loving wife, Marie, and children, Tony (Luann), Rebecca (Steve), Richard (Patty) and Michael, all living in Washington state. He also has 13 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and by one brother, Glen Johnson.

A private family celebration will be held at a later date.