Roundup Record Tribune & Winnett Times -

Leonard Axel Wall, 90, of Roundup, Montana, completed his earthly baptismal journey on June 25, 2023 and now rests in the arms of his Savior. He was born on March 8, 1933, to Axel and Anna Wall. He died of natural causes.

Leonard loved his family immensely and devoted time to support and care for them, even choosing to serve as a caregiver for his mother and brother in their final years. He is preceded in death by Axel & Anna (parents), JoAnne (wife), Arnold (brother), and Wesley Axel Russell (great grandson).

He is survived by his daughters: Lynn (Mike) Sherpe, Centennial, CO; and Pam Russell, Roundup, MT; Grandchildren: Justin (Valeri) Russell, Roundup, MT, Brian (Chloé) Sherpe, Mount Vernon, WA, Aaren Sherpe, Seattle, WA; Great Grandchildren: Tyler Leonard Russell, Alexander Timothy Russell, Samantha Jane Russell, Owen Wesley Russell of Roundup, MT and Kasper Leonard Sherpe, Mount Vernon, WA.

Leonard was born in Roundup and lived in Montana for all but seven years of his life when The Texas Company (later called Texaco, Inc.) took him to North Dakota and Wyoming for work in the oil fields. He retired from his 41-year career with Texaco in January 1994. He married JoAnne Wise, his high school sweetheart, on August 14, 1955. Together they raised their 2 daughters, Lynn and Pam. Leonard's loving and compassionate nature extended beyond his family, too. He served his community with endless passion.

Leonard enlisted in the Army National Guard and was stationed in Montana from March 20,1950 to October 17, 1956. After being honorably discharged, he re-enlisted in the Reserve of the Army stationed in Montana on October 18, 1956. He was honorably discharged from the Army on October 17, 1959. In June 2023 he received a Quilt of Valor during the Roundup War Memorial Park Dedication for his service in the Army.

He was a member of the Roundup Volunteer Fire Department (RVFD) from 1956 – 2019. During his 63 years with the RVFD he served in all positions within the department. Because of his love for the community, he personally purchased the first set of "Jaws of Life" for the fire department. During the last 30 years with the department, he served and retired as Battalion Chief for the RVFD.

He was on the Roundup Memorial Healthcare Association Board of Directors from 1979 until April 2023. In 2018 he was honored as the Montana Hospital Association's Trustee of the Year by the Montana Hospital Association for his noteworthy contributions to the work of the hospital, long term care facilities and the health care field.

Leonard was active for many years in Masons (member since 1956), Shriners and Eastern Star. Throughout his life he was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting with his friends, kids, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was also a member of the Roundup Sportsmen's Association. One of his great passions was being a safety instructor for the Montana hunter and archery programs.

The absolute light of Leonard's life was his family. He loved watching his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids in each of their own sports and activities, and just hanging out with them. He embraced technology which allowed him to connect with his out of state family a couple times a week via "Zoom" or through FaceTime. He kept his entire family updated on all the news that was posted to FaceBook!

A memorial service to celebrate Leonard's life and faith will take place at 11:00 a.m. on August 5, 2023 at St. Benedict's Catholic Church in Roundup, Montana. The Rev. Amanda Liggett from Zion Lutheran Church will preside.

Our Dad – Grandpa – Papa will take his final firetruck ride and be laid to rest next to his beloved wife, JoAnne and his great grandson, Wesley. Leonard's love of life and his compassionate soul will truly be missed. "O God, receive him into the arms of your mercy, into the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of the Saints in light."

A reception will follow the graveside service at the Masonic Hall. All are welcome!