Leon Lee Osborn, 74, of Grinnell, IA passed away peacefully at home on March 10, 2026 with his family and beloved cats by his side. Lee's wishes were to be cremated and there will be no service.

Memorial contributions may be made out to Cristy Osborn with funds to be divided among nature and wildlife conservation organizations, mailed in c/o Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.

Leon was born on May 30, 1951, in Grinnell, IA to Arthur and Evelyn (Claybrook) Osborn. He was raised on the family farm near Rock Creek State Park, and He graduated from Grinnell High School with the class of 1969.

Leon worked many years as an installer for telecommunication companies. Being based out of Texas he lived in the Dallas area for 20 years and work took him across most states all over the Midwest. He also owned and operated Arrowhead motel in Buffalo, WY for over 6 years.

After navigating life together for 16 years, Leon married Cristy Peak on September 1, 2015.

Leon loved all animals stemming from his upbringing on the farm taking care of the livestock everyday. He enjoyed raising Chow Chows and cats for many years after. His love for nature began at a young age. From exploring the farm and nearby State Park, to traveling the mountain ranges spanning the western United States in Oregon, Wyoming, South Dakota and Colorado specifically . Whether he was hunting, fishing, riding his Harley, or just sitting to take in the beauty, Leon was happiest surrounded by the wonders of nature. Leon's greatest joy and accomplishment in life was raising his grandson Kaiden.

Leon is survived by his wife, Cristy Osborn, his grandson, Kaiden Peak, his sister Ranae Hamor, his nephews, Travis (Guinn) Osborn, and Cody Osborn, nieces, Shoneen (Steve) Davis, Crystal Poole, and Lacey Poole, and sister-in-law, Renee (Scull) Brooks, stepson Ryan Peak, and step grandsons Aydin Levingston and Austyn Peak.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Evelyn, and his brother "Gar" Osborn.