Leonard Ross, who passed away peacefully on April 20, 2025, at the age of 97, was a prominent figure in Portola, California. Born in Missouri and moving to Portola in 1937, he graduated from high school in 1945 and later established Leonard’s Market in 1961. After selling the successful business in 1972, he served 16 years on the Plumas County Board of Supervisors, where he made significant contributions, including the formation of the Eastern Plumas District Hospital and the establishment of the Sierra Valley groundwater district.
A passionate supporter of the Plumas County Fair, Leonard was actively involved in various community activities, including announcing horse shows and demonstrating meat cutting. He was a dedicated horse enthusiast, owning a thoroughbred stallion that became a champion. Leonard’s family life was equally rich; he married Elaine McGarr in 1975, and together they celebrated a loving partnership filled with family, including six children, nine grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren.
Leonard was known for his storytelling and imparting valuable life lessons to his family. He cherished moments spent with his grandchildren, teaching them skills like shooting and sharing adventures. His legacy includes not only his community contributions but also the love and wisdom he shared with his family. A memorial service is scheduled for May 24 at Sierra Christian Church in Beckwourth, where friends and family are invited to celebrate his life.
