Leon Kent Eslinger, 64

 

Leon Kent Eslinger, 64, of Gainesville, MO passed away on September 09, 2021, at the Baxter Regional Medical Center. He was born on March 30, 1957, in Springfield, Missouri, son of Don and Juanita (Perry) Eslinger. 

Leon is survived by his wife Debbie (Fry) Eslinger of Gainesville; son Levi and wife Trina Eslinger of Kentucky, son Mason and Misti Eslinger of Gainesville; three grandchildren Austin and wife Magdalene of Norfolk, Virginia, Payton Eslinger and Tate Eslinger of Gainesville; his in-laws and numerous cousins. 

Leon was a lifelong Gainesville resident, he graduated from Gainesville High School class of 1975. Leon was well known to the community and made numerous friends during the many years he and his family owned and operated the Gainesville True Value Hardware on the square in Gainesville.

But most importantly, Leon was a family man. Here is what his family had to say about him:

“He was my best friend and the best husband I ever could have wished for; I love him to the depth of my heart and soul.”

“To a son in law like no other - Thank you for sharing life with me. It is precious memories.”

“He blessed me with being my brother and inviting me to share life with he and my sister. Many blessed memories we have shared.”

“As my father-in-law, Leon made me feel like family from the moment we met. The fondest memories are the hours we played games as a family-sequence, dominos, and cards to name a few. I would always get tickled at his comments. Family time I will cherish forever.”

“He was a good grandpa. I remember we would say “shamy shamy” every time he did something wrong. He was the best grandpa ever!” - Payton

“Me and Papa would ride the snapper together. We would go to the cabin to shoot guns. He also took me hunting. You are the best grandpa in the world. You were so silly.”- Tate

“Dad always had time to be involved in my life. He would work all day then come home and play catch or shoot hoops with me. Mom and Dad never missed a game from t-ball through college football. I admire the life my dad lived.”

The family has honored Leon’s wish for cremation. They will hold a private family gathering at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to “The Center” in Gainesville, MO and can be left at the funeral home. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO.

This paid obituary is published as submitted by the family. 

Ozark County Times

504 Third Steet
PO Box 188
Gainesville, MO 65655

Phone: (417) 679-4641
Fax: (417) 679-3423