Leonard Bakke

Leonard James Bakke, aged 63, passed away peacefully on September 4th, 2024 at home in Palos Hills. He was a devoted son, loving brother, uncle, father, cherished grandfather, and dear friend to many. He passionately enjoyed spending time with family and friends, playing Bingo with Mom, attending Bridget’s HS basketball games, his nephews’ sporting events and watching old westerns and sports on TV and cooking and eating! We will miss his specialty breakfast potatoes. He was proud to “Back the Pack” and looking forward to attending the opening home Packer game on September 15th with his mom, brother David and niece Jenna. 

Born in Marinette, Wisconsin, on June 9th, 1961, to Loren and Florence nee Dura Bakke. Leonard was the eldest of four boys. The family moved to Chicago in 1963 and settled in Oak Park, Illinois in 1973. A graduate of Longfellow GS. He attended Oak Park River Forest HS where he excelled in organized sports often playing as quarterback. He spent a few seasons coaching JR football. He left high school to seek employment and his life passions. He worked various jobs throughout his life from gas station attendant, to laborer in construction, and several years working at the Chicago Sun Times as a Helper before going to Just in Time Plumbing. He last worked with Mike at MJA Plumbing where he was respected for his dedication and hard work.

As a child alongside his father and great uncles; he and his brothers learned the skills of outdoorsmanship; including hunting, fishing, and camping in the home town area of Marinette, Wisconsin, and at the Bakke cabin in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. A tradition he maintained throughout his life, creating countless memories sharing his knowledge and skills while hunting and fishing alongside of his mother, children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Leonard, fondly known as “Cowboy” by some of his friends, joined the Chicago Dragons MC (Motorcycle Club) in 1985 where he enjoyed riding motorcycles with his club brothers and sisters. He held a position of Secretary for the club due to his affinity for math. 

He was an avid bowler on two regular leagues and also bowled in a summer league. He was a long-time member of the 12-step community. He touched the lives of many and will be remembered for his devotion, loyalty, kindness, and gentle spirit.

Most recently this year Leonard attended many family events and functions including the 2024 Dura Family reunion in Marinette, Wisconsin with his daughter and grandchildren. Over 120 of his mother’s family including his Godparents Louis and Lois were in attendance. While in Marinette, Wisconsin he also used his plumbing skills to assist with repairs to his Aunt Marlene’s home, which is the former home of his Grandma Bakke. He attended annual hunting and fishing trips with family and friends. He was recently also able to take his daughter Bridget and his grandkid’s fishing and riding on the 4-wheeler at the family cabin. 

Leonard was often lovingly referred to as “Uncle Gummy” by some of his nieces and nephews, and sometimes just plain “Gummy” by his brothers.

He lived a life filled with service, hard work, love, laughter and fun. He found solace and joy in special moments. Leonard will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Leonard is survived by his mother Florence, three brothers; David, Steven (Deanna), Paul (Tina), his children Leonard Jr., Bridget, (Darius), Caprice, six grandchildren; Layla, Quinn, Da’Marria, Kay, Kieston, Kamri, seven nieces and nephews; Jenna, Kara, Anna, Jared, Ryan, Joshua, Madison, and countless extended family and friends.

 Leonard was preceded in death by his father Loren, his daughter Brandi and nephew David Jr. 

 Leonard may have left this world, but his love and legacy continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. 

Visitation Friday, September 13th, 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Palos-Gaidas Funeral Home 11028 Southwest Hwy. Palos Hill, IL 60465 Funeral Saturday, September 14th, 10:00 a.m. from the funeral home to Sacred Heart Church for 11:30 a.m. Mass. 

Leonard will be laid to rest at Forest Home Cemetery in Crivitz, Wisconsin on September 21st, 2024 at 1:30 p.m.