Leonard Espe, age 80 of Austin, died on July 19, 2012, at St. Marks Lutheran Home.

He was born on July 24, 1931, in Austin to Nels and Bessie (Howel) Espe. During the Korean War, Leonard served in the United States Army.

Upon his return from the service, he married his sweetheart, Janith Wolfe on Oct. 14, 1952. Leonard worked a variety of jobs before getting a mechanic job at the Union Oil Truck Stop where he worked over 20 years. He enjoyed a lot of activities including fishing, hunting and racing.

Leonard’s favorite thing in life was his family and he always looked forward to spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Leonard is survived by his wife: Janith; daughters: Linda (Rick) Ringling, Joanne (David) Klinger, Sherri (Chet) Iverson, and Susanne (Matt) Stark; eleven grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; and lifelong friend, Lawrence McAllister.

Leonard is preceded in death by his parents; one son, Robert; twin great grandchildren, Noah and Isabelle; four sisters and four brothers.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 24, 2012, at Mayer Funeral Home with Father Dale Tupper officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Monday and one hour prior to the service on Tuesday.

Burial will follow the service at Calvary Cemetery with military honors provided by the American Legion Post #91.