Master Sergeant Leonard Joseph Rence

Master Sergeant Leonard Joseph Rence, a distinguished veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars with over 30 years of service in the U.S. Army, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 13th, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on February 3, 1934, to Emily Gibbs and Arnold Rence in Oakdale, Pennsylvania, Leonard graduated from McDonald High School in 1954 before enlisting in the U.S. Army. His military career was marked by significant achievements, he served with the 6th Transportation Co during the Korean and trained as a helicopter pilot; he went on to serve in the 3rd and 4th Armored Divisions as Tank Commander. He then transitioned to the Signal Corps focusing on communications and served as an instructor at West Point. He was instrumental in changes to the communication system used in the Sherman Tank. He went on to complete his education at the University of Maryland and Officer Candidacy School.

After his initial retirement, Leonard founded Rence Communications, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit before returning to military service with the Military Assistance Training (MAT) Team based at Fort Snelling, Minnesota.

The U.S. Army recognized Leonard's extensive and honorable service with over 20+ military decorations including the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star, humorously referred to as having "more fruit salad than Patton and Eisenhower combined." Notably, he is the only NCO to receive the Polish Medal of Honor, acknowledging his instrumental role in significant military operations.

Leonard married his lifelong sweetheart, Madolyn McQuillan, with whom he shared a friendship since eighth grade. Together for 69 years, they were partners in building a family, traveling the world, and facing life's challenges hand in hand.

Leonard is survived by his devoted wife, Madolyn; his children, Leonetta (Luther Beamer), Christopher, and Phyllis, Leonard (Deceased); three grandchildren, Courtney, Michael, and Christopher; his great-grandson, Jack; and many friends and colleagues.

A Memorial Mass to celebrate Leonard's life and his remarkable military service will be held at The Church of St. William, 6120 5th Street NE, Fridley, MN 55432 on Friday, January 3rd, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Visitation from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, prior to Mass. Please join us for a luncheon at the Fridley American Legion, 7365 Central Avenue NE, Fridley, MN 55432 following mass.

Interment will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. His legacy of service, dedication, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that a donation be made to one of the following Non-Profits in his honor: koreanwarvetsmemorial.org https://koreanwarvetsmemorial.networkforgood.com/projects/91915-korean-war-veterans-memorial-foundation The Vietnam Memorial: https://www.vvmf.org/Support-VVMF/ The Wounded Warrior Project: https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/Default.aspx?tsid=11585&ovr_acv_id=20344&campaignSource=ONLINE&source=BS24032AACBREAA&=&msclkid=21845909eb7c130ca2ed3e6c2854f21d&gclsrc=ds