Leonard Robert Hern

Leonard Robert Hern, 90, passed away December 14, with his wife at his side. Leonard was born in Ronan, Montana, but grew up, lived, and farmed on Minesinger Trail for 60 years, just outside of Polson.

Leonard was born January 29, 1926. He graduated from Polson High School, lettering in football and basketball. He joined the Navy during his senior year at Polson High School. In January, a farm boy that had never traveled away from Polson, boarded a train to Seattle to begin his enlistment and efforts in WW II. Leonard spent three years on the island of Atu, part of the Aleutian Islands. He was honorably discharged, and couldn’t get back to the farm fast enough.

Leonard married (Sally Brooke) the mother of his three amazing children Hollis Hern McCartney (Gary Burton) of Lakeside, David Hern (Debbie) of Coeur d’Alene and Hilton Hern (Tena) of Gallatin Gateway. He was blessed with six wonderful grandsons, and 12 great grandchildren, and one great-greatgrandchild.

While Leonard started his family, he worked alongside his father, D.A. Hern, and his only brother R.A. Lonnie Hern (Ardelle). They grew many crops, but certified seed potatoes were Leonard’s specialty. Besides farming, Leonard held a private pilot license. His most peaceful time was spent flying his favorite plane, Cessna 182 RG. He loved to landscape, build homes, build subdivisions, collect works of art, and fish. Leonard enjoyed creating anything with hard work, and sweat.

After 60 years in Polson, he moved to Anaconda, where he met his wife, caregiver, friend and partner, Leigh Ann Bradley. They moved to Toston, Montana to grow certified seed potatoes. With best friend, Dr. Earl Coriell and his wife Betty, they grew Certified Seed Potatoes for 20 years, and also created a subdivision on the Missouri River. Leonard and Leigh Ann spent every day together, sometimes fishing, but mostly working with dirt or sawdust.

The love of Polson and health issues brought Leonard and Leigh Ann back to Polson in 2014. Over 90 plus years Leonard knew many people, some he employed, some he fished with, some he attended church with, and he was kind to all.

Leonard was preceded in death by his father, D.A. Hern , his mother Louise Hern, his brother Lonnie Hern, his nephew Timothy Hern, and niece Becky Hern.

He is survived by his wife Leigh Ann , his sister Arlene Erickson (Bill), best friend Dr. Earl Coriell, daughter Hollis McCartney, sons David and Hilton, three nieces, and grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, December 20, 2016 at 2:00 pm at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church with full military honors to follow at the church.