Leonard Leroy Grove

Wasilla resident Leonard Leroy Grove, 70, died Nov. 27, 2011, in Wasilla.

No services are scheduled. The family invites friends and family to participate in a pink balloon release, wherever you feel appropriate, at noon, Dec. 3 in honor of Leonard.

Leonard was born Sept. 18, 1941, in Day, Calif., to Merrill John Grove and Dorothy (Oilar) Scholl.

Leonard moved to Alaska in 1997 and enjoyed hunting and fishing. Leonard had worked for Halliburton and Louisiana Pacific. He was also a member of and believer in AA.

The family wrote: “Dad was a man who loved the laughter of life. He had a story for almost every setting.

“He loved to be the jokester and bring smiles to the people around him. When he gave you his word no contract was needed. He never shied away from work and always gave it his all. If you needed a shirt, he would give you the shirt off his back and then buy you an extra one. He loved family, friends and all types of celebrations — and anything that included the color pink. So celebrate his life by giving and sharing love with those around you.”

Leonard’s favorite saying was, “live life on life’s terms — don’t take life too seriously.”

Leonard is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Merrill J. and Laura Grove; granddaughter, Merilyn J. Grove; grandson, Christian L. Grove; brother, Virgil D. Grove; sister, Marvella D. Webster; mother, Dorothy P. Scholl; nieces, Leah, Dorothy, Amanda, Rayna, Janette, Anne and Dallas; nephews, Steve and Lucas; 23 great-nieces and nephews; and three great-great-nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his brother, Norman D. Grove; and his father, Merrill J. Grove.

Valley Funeral Home and Crematory cared for the family.