Leon Lawrence Putnam, the son of Don and Dorothy (Williams) Putnam was born January 7, 1949 in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and died April 9, 2025, in Council Bluffs, Iowa. He was 76 years, 3 months, and 2 days.
Leon attended school in Oakland, Iowa, and graduated from Oakland High School in 1967. In high school he was a member of the FFA and he and his brother Rick helped his Dad farm. After graduating from high school, he and his cousin, Kenny Putnam, enlisted in the Marine Corp. They left to serve in 1968.
Leon served in Vietnam from 68-69. Having been wounded, he received 3 Purple Hearts and a silver star. After serving his country, he came back home and farmed till the mid 80’s and then moved to Colorado with his family. While in Colorado, he started working for a fire and sprinkler company. They would spend their weekends going camping and fishing. After several years they moved back to Oakland. Leon was also a member of the VFW.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Pam, and his parents.
He is survived by his children, Rowdy (Cassidy) Putnam of Loveland, CO, Niki (Kevin) Ford of Oakland, IA, Stacie Kinnison of Wilmington, NC, Rhonda Silva of Council Bluffs, IA, and Brandi (Gavin) Payne of Grand Island, NE; Sister Lolly (Mike) Porter of Council Bluffs, IA; and brother Rick Putnam of Oakland, IA. He is also survived by several grandchildren, great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, relatives, and friends.
Graveside services with military honors will be held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at the Oaklawn Cemetery at Oakland. Rieken Vieth Funeral Home in Oakland is assisting the family.
