Michelle S. Leonard, 40, of Gaylord, died Sunday, February 24, 2013 at Otsego Memorial Hospital.

Michelle was born August 23, 1972 in Detroit. She is the daughter of Richard L. Leonard (deceased) and Suzann L. Allen. Michelle grew up in Detroit, moving to Indian River with her family in 1987. She graduated from Pellston High School.

Michelle enjoyed working in restaurants, including Boyne Highlands and the Grand Hotel on Mackinaw Island and she held a certificate of completion from the Cheboygan HS food service program. Michelle was active in 4-H and held trophies and awards for her many animals. She had been a resident of Gaylord for a little over three years. She attended church at Joy Fellowship, Indian River and Johannesburg Christian Church.

She is survived by her mother, Suzi Allen and companion, Dave Hare; brother, Eric Leonard and companion, Allison Hammond, of Alanson; Aunt, Betty Allen of Gaylord; niece and nephew, Braden Bunker and Alexis Leonard; step siblings, David (Jennifer) Hare of Belleville, MI, Bradley (Susan) Hare of Warren, MI, Curtis (Stacey) Hare of Monroe, Rebecka (Dan) Morin of Southgate, MI; Stepmother, Marilyn Leonard of Hawaii; and numerous friends who considered themselves her family.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Michelle’s family. Due to the requests from Michelle's many friends scattered around Northern Michigan, there will be two memorial services. The first will be held at 3:00pm Saturday March 9, 2013 at Johannesburg Christian Church, lunch to follow. The second will be at 4:00pm, Saturday, March 16, 2013 at the Joy Fellowship Church in Indian River, lunch to follow. Michelle's family is grateful to Lintz Funeral Home in Indian River for their assistance.