Leonard M. Wilds / Nov. 20, 1937-July 18, 2011

Published 10:39 pm Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Leonard’s life began on Nov. 20, 1937 in Dowagiac, the son of Garver M. and Maybelle (Cornelius) Wilds.  Leonard was a member of the Dowagiac Moose Lodge and the Dowagiac First United Methodist Church.

Leonard M. Wilds

He served his country in the United States Navy aboard the USS Persistent during the Korean War.  Leonard was a retired tool and die maker.  He was united in marriage to the former Constance Cox on December 19, 1993 in Dowagiac.    His loving family includes his wife Constance of Dowagiac, four children Earl (Cindy) Wilds of Dowagiac, Lynn Lutz of Decatur, Lisa Wilds of Paw Paw, and Chester (Cindy) Wilds of San Antonio, TX, five stepchildren Carol Primley of Dowagiac, Carl (Lori) Ruff of Dowagiac, Micheal (Julie) Ruff of Dowagiac, Richard (Cathy)  Ruff of Dowagiac, and Timothy (Jessica) Ruff of Dowagiac, numerous grandchildren,  four great grandchildren, sisters Darlene (Hugh) Trussell, Rose ( Jaime) Aravena, Pat (John) Vander Lyster, and Dollie ( Lyle) Shaw, brother John Wilds .   Leonard passed away on Monday July 18, 2011 at The Timbers of Cass County.  He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother Gene Wilds.  His family will gather with friends on Wednesday from 5-8 p.m. at Yazel & Clark Chapel.  His funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday at the Dowagiac First United Methodist Church led by Reverend John Kasper.  He will be laid to rest with Navy honors in Mission Hills Cemetery, Niles.  Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Leonard at www.yazel-clark.com