LEONARD JAMES WALDEN

Leonard James Walden, 93, of Springfield, MO passed away on January 3, 2018 in Springfield. He was born August 23, 1924 in Polk County near Adonis, MO. He attended Emma D. High School in Goodson, MO. During WWII, Leonard worked at Port Huenema Naval Base in California. Following the war, he worked as a farmer and then as a technician for Missouri Farmers Association for ten years. In 1960, Leonard became a real estate broker for the Missouri Highway Department, working 24 years and retiring in 1984.

Leonard was married to Hazel Marie Farel of Elijah, MO on April 9, 1946; they were married 53 years until Hazel's death in 1999.

Leonard enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking, and working with his citrus trees, during his retirement years in Tucson, AZ. He also enjoyed the time he spent with his friends playing the Dog Track. Leonard cherished his family and friends both in Missouri and Arizona.

Leonard is survived by his son, Bob Walden and wife, Jean; his daughter, Deborah Walden; and grandson, James Walden; as well as many family and friends.

Leonard was preceded in death by his wife, Hazel; his parents, Wilburn and Mae Walden; and his brother, Thomas Walden.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 8, 2018 in the Clinkingbeard Funeral Home chapel, Gainesville, MO with Bro. Dale Roberts officiating. Burial will follow in the Baptist Hill Cemetery in Elijah, MO.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given to Oak Grove Baptist Cemetery, Adonis, Polk County, MO; or Baptist Hill Cemetery, Elijah, Ozark County, MO, c/o Mona Brown 1215 Opal Ave, West Plains, MO  65775. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO.