Albert E. "Bud" Leonard

Albert E. “Bud” Leonard, 80 of West Chester, PA surrounded by his family and friends. passed away Saturday, January 18, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Christine A. Leonard (Mullen), his wife of 37 years.

Born April 21, 1944, in St Michaels, MD, Bud was the son of the late William Leonard and the late Rosetta Bernice Sweitzer Leonard. Bud grew up in St. Michaels and attended St. Michaels High School. He spent much of his childhood on their farm on Tilghman Island, tinkering with tractors and farm equipment.  His love of tractors and gardening continued throughout his life.

In 1964, he enlisted with the Marine Corps from 1964-1968 and served in combat in Vietnam. During his service he was declared Missing in Action and presumed dead but, too stubborn to give up, he and his fellow Marines held their own and were rescued Christmas Eve just before the MIA letters were dispatched.  His bravery earned him numerous medals and ignited a lifelong fascination with helicopters that would shape his future.

After returning home he continued pursuing his passion for aviation and attended the Spartan School of Aeronautics, where he received his Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate. He worked as an FAA A&P mechanic for many years both in the repair and heavy lift helicopter industry. 

Driven by a desire to share his expertise, Bud transitioned to teaching Aviation Mechanics at Delcastle Technical High School, where he inspired generations of students for nearly 30 years. He was more than just an instructor; he was a mentor, a confidante, and a friend, fostering deep connections that lasted far beyond the classroom. He nurtured his students' dreams, offering unwavering support and guidance, and empowering them to reach their full potential.

After retiring from teaching, Bud remained a part of the aviation industry. He went to work full-time for Piasecki Aviation where he was an integral part of many projects and helped with the design of several prototypes.  Bud was completely immersed in so many helicopter projects, companies, and organizations. He also helped with the creation of the American Helicopter Museum and helped rebuild aircraft for the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. The list of his contributions to the aircraft industry is extensive and his time working as an Aviation Mechanic exceeded 50 years, culminating in his being awarded the prestigious Charles Taylor Award by the FAA, a testament to his enduring legacy in the aviation world.

It was in retirement where Bud could truly spend time with the greatest of his loves, his wife, Chris. They spent many hours with their dogs, who were more than just pets to them, they were cherished members of their family. He enjoyed spending many relaxing evenings on his porch with Chris and his beloved dogs, Moose and Maggie. He found so much joy in those relaxing days.

In addition to his wife Christine, Bud is survived by his children, Samuel Leonard (Susannah and future child), Sara Doyle, and Molly Hart; stepchildren, Nicole Morton (Nate and children Dan and Avery) and Roby Lentz (Dolores, and children Sofia and Margaux). He was preceded in death by his parents and 3 siblings, William, Larry, and Arlene.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Piasecki Aircraft Corporation 110 Stewart Huston Dr. Coatesville, PA 19320. Friends are invited to gather at Piasecki Aircraft Corporation from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM for a time of sharing. All attending will need to register to be on the list since the ceremony adjoins an airport. Please visit the invitation and register to attend the celebration of life here

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to K9’s for Warriors

Arrangements by DellaVecchia, Reilly, Smith & Boyd Funeral Home, Inc. of West Chester, PA 610-696-1181; www.DellaFH.com