Edward Charles Leonardi

Edward Charles Leonardi was born on September 26, 1947, in Riverton, Wyoming, to Eugene and Ruth (Heron) Leonardi. Ed passed away on May 16, 2026, at Banner Health in Casper, Wyoming, in the loving arms of his wife and daughter—a reflection of the deep love that surrounded him throughout his life.

Ed grew up on the family dairy north of Lander, where his strong work ethic and deep connection to the land were first rooted. He attended grade school in a small country schoolhouse just down the road from the farm and later graduated from Lander Valley High School in 1965. He attended Casper College for one year before proudly serving his country in the United States Coast Guard.

On July 26, 1969, Ed married the love of his life, Brenda Berg, in Harlowton, Montana. Together they built a life grounded in love, hard work, and family. During his Coast Guard service, they were stationed in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. After completing his service, they returned to Shawmut, Montana, where they worked alongside Uncle Lloyd. These years helped shape Ed’s deep passion for ranching, guided by the wisdom, support, and friendship of family members including Grandpa Dick, Uncle Lloyd, Uncle Glen, Grandpa Henry, and so many others.

Ed and Brenda were blessed with two daughters, Angela Marie, born in 1973, and Jill Anne, born in 1975. In 1977, they returned to Lander with their two blonde-haired, blue-eyed girls to purchase and operate the family dairy. Ed and his brother Larry worked side by side running the dairy for more than 20 years. Later, Ed fulfilled his lifelong dream of owning a ranch and raising beef cattle, taking great pride in building what became the Double L Ranch.

Ed spent many years growing his herd and ranching at Sweetwater. He knew that ranching was never a solo endeavor—it was built on the strength of relationships. Whether branding, shipping, riding, or helping a neighbor, Ed valued the friendships and neighbors that surrounded him. His life was a testament to the meaning of hard work, loyalty, and showing up for others.

Ed was blessed beyond words with two granddaughters, Jordyn Angela (born in 2004) and Taylor Marie (born in 2006), who quickly became the light of his life. To them, he was simply “Papa”—their hero, teacher, and biggest fan. Ed cherished every moment with his girls, finding pure joy in the time they spent together, whether it was out on the ranch, sharing stories, or simply being by their side. From the time they were just six months old, he proudly placed them on a horse, beginning a lifelong bond rooted in his love for the land and for them.

Their connection was something truly special filled with laughter, quiet understanding, and unconditional love. Ed instilled in them not only his passion for ranching, but also his values of kindness, resilience, and strong family ties. He delighted in watching them grow, always encouraging them, always present. The love between Papa and his girls was deep and unwavering, and it will forever remain a treasured part of who they are.

Ed is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Brenda; his daughter Jill (Jeremy) Chandler; and his beloved granddaughters, Jordyn and Taylor Wilson.

He was preceded in death by his cherished daughter, Angie; his parents, Gene and Ruth Leonardi; and his brother, Larry Leonardi.

Memorials may be mailed directly to the Lander Old Timers Rodeo Association, 1663 Rodeo Dr, Lander, WY 82520.

The Memorial Service will be at 10:00 am, Thursday, May 21, 2026, in the Chapel of Mount Hope, Hudson's Funeral Home, 680 Mount Hope Drive, Lander, Wyoming 82520.

Please sign the online guestbook: hudsonsfh.com.