Leonard Nicholas Wiese

Funeral Mass for Leonard Nicholas Wiese, 89, of Gainesville, are set for 10:00 AM Friday February 2, 2018 at the St. Mary's Catholic Church with Fr. John Pacheco officiating. Burial will follow in the New Resthaven Cemetery under the direction of the Geo. J. Carroll & Son Funeral Home. A rosary with visitation to follow will be held at 7:00 PM Thursday February 1, 2018 at the funeral home.

Leonard passed away on Monday, January 29, 2018 at Medical Center Hospital in Denton, Texas.

He was born March 5, 1928 in Lindsay, Texas to Frank A. and Clara (Schad) Wiese.

Leonard was a favorite uncle, great uncle and great-great uncle to many nieces and nephews. He attended elementary school at St. Mary’s School in Gainesville and graduated valedictorian of his high school class at Subiaco Academy in Arkansas. Leonard served for 18 months in the Korean War in the 724th Railway Operating Battalion. Prior to and after his military service he worked for the Santa Fe Railroad for approximately 35 years before retiring in Gainesville, Texas.

Leonard was devout in his faith, and remained in close contact with family and friends his entire life. He had a personal ministry of regularly visiting friends and family members in their time of need. He had a passion for the outdoors and enjoyed many backpacking trips to Colorado and loved fishing for crappie and catfish at Lake Texoma. He mentored many friends and family members in the art and science of backcountry camping and fishing. He was also an accomplished gardener, having learned that skill from his mother. Perhaps most of all, Leonard will be remembered for his wonderful wit and sense of humor.

Leonard was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Francis, Paul and Robert. He is survived by many nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Gainesville or Subiaco Academy, Subiaco, Arkansas.