Leonard N. Baird, Jr.

POLSON — Leonard N. Baird, Jr. age 77 was born May 14, 1928, in Oklahoma, the only child to the late Leonard N. Baird, Sr. and Johnnie Baird. His death on Thursday, Oct. 20, 2005, after a long battle with cancer, was preceded by Lucille Erma Marchi Baird, his wife of 38 years, who also succumbed to cancer in 1989.

Leonard moved to California at an early age. He joked that he tried his hand at every job there was in a thirst for knowledge and experience. He became the "Captain of Port" for the Junior Coast Guard at age 16 and went on to create and preside over the Torquers Club, a hot rod enthusiasts group, at age 21.

He was a veteran of the Korean War and served as a tank commander and Sergeant First Class on the front lines where he earned two Purple Hearts. He retired from General Motors in 1987 and moved to Polson in 1999.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 10 years, Connie Blanchard Baird; his devoted children, Mike Baird and his wife Pattie, Karen Vierra and her husband Steve, and Susan Botz; and five grandchildren, Nick, Sam, Kate, Andy and Russell.

Len was blessed to have an extended family, Ronald Blanchard and his wife Leslie, Randy Blanchard and his wife Debbie, and Catie and Ryan.

We love you, and promise to watch over Misty for you.

Graveside services with military honors will be held on Saturday, Oct. 29, at 11 a.m. in the Plains Cemetery with Terrie Woods officiating. Donations In memory of Leonard Baird can be made to the Mission Valley Animal Shelter, 239 North Reservoir Rd. Polson, MT 59860.

Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Grogan Funeral Home, Polson.