R. Steve Leonzal, 70, of Anoka, pass away on October 7, 2026. He was a man whose presence could fill a room and whose personality left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Known for his quick wit, larger-than-life stories, and ability to make people laugh, Steve lived life fully, boldly, and on his own terms.

Steve had a deep love for the outdoors and spent many years hunting and trapping, finding peace and adventure in nature. He was a traveler at heart and explored many parts of the world, Aincluding New Zealand and Hawaii. His adventurous spirit led him to extraordinary experiences few could ever imagine.

One of Steve’s proudest accomplishments was living and working in Antarctica at McMurdo Station during Operation Deep Freeze, where he spent 11 months enduring six months of complete daylight followed by six months of total darkness. He also spent two years living and working in the South Pacific on Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands during the production and development of President Ronald Reagan’s “Star Wars” defense initiative.

Steve later found a home in Las Vegas, Nevada, a city that perfectly matched his charisma and personality. Later Steve also lived in Key West, a city that he loved so, so much. He was well-liked everywhere he went and had a natural ability to make lifelong friends with ease. During his years there, he shared laughs and drinks with legendary comedian Redd Foxx and crossed paths with many heavyweight boxers, actors, and comedians from what he fondly called “the good old days.”

Steve was also a man of faith who believed deeply in God. Prayer was a daily part of his life, and his faith remained a guiding force through every chapter of his journey.

He is survived by his son, Steven, and daughter-in-law Dannielle of Las Vegas; his brother Mike (Roberta) of Port Charlotte, Sister Cindy (Wes) Littler of Coon Rapids and sister Deb of Duluth; his nieces Chrissy and Tiffany; and his nephew Mikey; Aunt, Darlene Marshall of Minneapolis.

Steve will be remembered for his humor, his stories, his adventurous life, and the unforgettable presence he brought wherever he went.

Semper Fi.

Visitation will be held at Sunrise Funeral Home, 4798 Miller Trunk Hwy, Hermantown, MN 55811, on Friday, October 16, 2026 at 12:00pm with a Service to follow at 1pm. Burial will be at Forest Hill Cemetery, 2516 Woodland Ave, Duluth MN 55803, on Friday, October 16, 2026 at 2pm.