David Lee Leinon, 76, of Iron Belt, passed away on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at the Villa Maria Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Hurley.

Dave was born July 4, 1948, in Ironwood, Mich., to Raymond and Lillian (Vanderschagan) Leinon. After graduating from Hurley High School in 1966, he went on to earn a bachelor's degree in forestry from the University of Minnesota. He worked for American Can Company and James River Corporation, the pulp and paper company that manufactured Northern, Brawny and Dixie products. He then started his own business with his father-in-law, Gasper Perrero, and later went into business with his son, Jamie, at Dave and Jamie Leinon Trucking and Iron Belt Forest Products.

On June 3, 1972, Dave married Shelley Perrero at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church in Iron Belt.

Dave found great joy in working and traveling and embraced every opportunity to be outside in nature—his favorite place to be. His special place to relax was in the back yard, surrounded by his family and friends–and his dogs. He loved the dogs so much that he had their home air-conditioned so they would be more comfortable! In his younger years, he enjoyed playing in bar softball leagues and playing cribbage with friends. Dave often asked if he had ever told you the story of "the time that he hit four home runs in one game!"

Dave is survived by his son, Jamie (Marilyn Kasper) Leinon, and daughter, Deena Leinon, both of Iron Belt; his sister, Darlene Laihinen; his sister-in-law, Karin Leinon, and many nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Shelley; and his brother, Dean.

"I could go on and on about what a generous, hard-working man you were, Dad, and how you would always cry when you read your birthday and Father's Day cards. I only wish things had been different so you could have been at home. I got my love of music from you and will always think of you and how you sang (and whistled) along. This one's for you, Daddy…."

No services will be held at this time.