Leonard E. Twombly, 91, rural of Highland, passed to the next life on July 12, 2015.

Leonard was the third of nine born to William E & Wilma Twombly on August 19, 1923.  Leonard grew up near Fanning and lived there his entire life, operating the dairy and managing the family farm..  He loved life, his faith, his family, and his work.

Leonard met his lifelong love, Betty, at a church party in St. Joseph.  After only six weeks of dating, they were engaged and then married five months later in May of 1946.  Together they raised six children – one boy and five girls.  Leonard and Betty were blessed with 66 years of married life together; they were inseparable friends.

Leonard was an active member of Fanning Community of Christ and held the office of High Priest in the priesthood of the church.  Leonard was pastor at the Oneida and Horton congregations of the church for many years, making the long drives with his young family, who remember the good times and experiences of those days and the importance of living your faith and giving to others.  He was also pastor at the Fanning Congregation for a number of years.

Leonard farmed the family farm, working also as a carpenter and substitute mail carrier during his lifetime.  He completed several major building projects for his children during his retirement years as well as caring for his large yard and garden.  He and Betty made regular Care Center visits and offered a variety of ministry whenever they saw the need.

Leonard loved being with family & friends and had an enthusiasm for life that continued to his final days. Survivors include his children Leonard L. (Marcia) Twombly of rural Highland, Lil Twombly & Ruth Twombly of Highland, Wilma (Jeff) Tyler and Jane (Larry) Bauerle, both of Sabetha, KS and Virginia (Gary) Merkel of Robinson, KS., 13 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren, two brothers..Bill (Beverly) Twombly, Bob (Kathleen) Twombly and sister Ruth (Bob) Turner.

Leonard was preceded in death by his wife Betty in 2012, three brothers, Sam, George, and David; and two sisters, Wilma (Sis) Saunders & Jean Johnson.

Celebration of Life Services are planned for 10:30 a.m., Friday, July 17, 2015 at the Fanning Community of Christ Church.  Inurnment will follow at a later date.

Friends may call the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland, KS  from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Thursday, July 16, 2015.  Family Visitation will be at the Fanning Community of Christ Church from 6 p.m. -  8 p.m. Thursday evening.

Memorial are suggested to Fanning Community of Christ or Northeast KS Hospice, which may be sent in care of the funeral home, P.O. Box 33, Highland, KS  66035.

Online condolences and special messages may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com.