Joaquin Leonardo Obituary

Joaquin "Jack" Leonardo

September 23, 1941 - June 18, 2024

Merced, California - Joaquin "Jack" Leonardo was the second of ten children born to Jack and Virginia Leonardo. He grew up in the Hopeton-Snelling area. Jack developed a strong work ethic at a young age. Throughout his life, he had various jobs including, catching chickens for a small poultry company in Stockton, milking cows at various dairies, and working at service stations. He owned and operated Jack's Chevron in Snelling for twenty years. Later, he was a rural route mail carrier. Finally, he worked Wednesday mornings at Olde Tyme Pastries primarily making cookies. He loved to share how many cookies he could prepare at one time.

Jack enjoyed playing fast-pitch softball in his younger days. Hunting, fishing, and watching boxing on television were favorite hobbies. He had a knack for making mechanical things, especially cars, work properly.

Prior to his stroke, he walked at least two miles each morning. As he took his daily stroll, he carried several dog biscuits. Each dog along his route received a treat. Many dogs could be seen anxiously awaiting his arrival.

Jack leaves behind many relatives and friends who will mourn his loss. He had ten grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. His beloved dogs were a very important part of his life; they also miss him greatly.

To honor his wishes, there will be no celebration of life.