Willard “Butch” Leaf Jr. Age 82, of Rice Lake, WI, died Tuesday, February 18, 2025 in Rice Lake.

He was born on December 7, 1942 in Superior, WI to Willard Sr and Lorraine (Potts) Leaf. Butch graduated from Superior Central in Superior and then entered the United States Navy and served during the Vietnam Era. He received his Associate Degree from Metropolitan State Technical College in Counseling. He was married to Mary Johnson on June 11, 1966 in Superior, WI.

Butch was a counselor for many years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, duck hunting, 4 wheeling, gardening, and bird watching. Butch was a very social guy and loved spending time at his cabin, his family and his buddies.

He is survived by 2 sons, Curtis Leaf & Mark (Laurie) Leaf; a daughter, Cindy (Zach) Roux; 7 grandchildren, April, Corinne, Addison, Stella, Finnley, Sean and Gemma; 3 great grandchildren, Nora, Eloise and Clara; 2 sisters, Debra Leaf and Jody Leaf; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Mary Leaf; a grandson, Jesse; his parents, Willard Sr and Lorraine Leaf; 2 brothers, Richard “Dick” and Dean; and a sister, Barb.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date at Appleyard’s Home for Funerals in Rice Lake, WI. In lieu of flowers, memorials would be appreciated to the Rice Lake High School Booster Club or We Honor Veterans through the Marshfield Medical Center - Rice Lake Hospice program.

Last Update: Feb 19, 2025 1:24 pm CST