James Clayton “Jim” Leonard

James Clayton "Jim" Leonard

MADISON, Wis. — James Clayton “Jim” Leonard, 81, passed away on Saturday, July 13, 2019. He was born Jan. 29, 1938, in Niagara, Wis., the son of Clayton and Helen Leonard. James was united in marriage to Patricia (Pat) Tigges on Feb. 6, 1960.

Jim received an accounting degree from Madison Business College. He worked for many years at American Family Insurance. After his retirement, Jim pursued and founded a company, BMT Technology, which was named after Jim’s three grandsons, Barrett, Michael II and Tyler. Family members are going to continue Jim’s vision with BMT Technology.

Jim and Pat’s daughters attended Saint Maria Goretti in Madison, where they were active members of the church and school for 50 years. While his girls attended St. Maria Goretti, Jim was active in their athletic program and played an avid role in the initiation of girls sports. The girls then attended Edgewood High School in Madison, where he volunteered and was the finance chairman at Edgewood’s yearly Edgefest.

Jim’s true love was his cottage up north on Lake Mary in Norway. He had so many special moments with family and friends. It was a special place, his home away from home.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Patricia (Pat); his five daughters, Lori (Scott DeMario), Lisa, Christine (Michael Cleary), Karen and Stephanie (Dusty Hackbart); granddaughters, Brittany, Alyssa (Rick), Alisha (Jordan), Lexi, Stephanie, Christine, Campbell and Emerson; grandsons, Michael II, Barrett and Tyler; great-granddaughter, Mila; brothers, Gary (Joanne) and Dennis (Marian); brother-in-law, Bill Tigges (Juanita); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clayton and Helen.

Graveside services will be at noon Thursday, July 18 at the Niagara Cemetery. Rev. Fr. Michael Lightner will officiate.

You may leave a condolence or tribute for Jim’s family online at www.JacobsFuneralHomes.com.

The family has chosen the Jacobs Funeral Home & Cremation Service-Niagara Chapel, to honor Jim’s legacy of life.