Buckley, Michigan - Leon Leroy Chilson, 86, went to meet his eternal Savior on February 26, 2026, with his family and beloved dog Mia at his side.

Leon was born on April 11, 1939, to the late Howard and Eleanor (Hasse) Chilson at home in Traverse City. He was proud of the fact that he was the 1939 Easter baby.

On May 14, 1966, Leon married Catherine G. Hunt in Frankfort. They would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

Leon & his dad built his first house. In Traverse City, this is where he started his life with Cathy and welcomed Christina and Kevin before moving to the farm in Buckley where Kim was born. The farm is where they raised the family prior to building their retirement home in 1997. Hobbies of farming, deer watching, fishing, gardening and hunting brought him great joy. Leon shared his love of these with Cathy, his children and grandchildren.

In the early 1960's Leon worked for Nelson's Dairy delivering milk. In 1964 Leon began working for Max's Service delivering appliances. As years went on, he became a salesman for Max's, until his retirement in 2009.

Leon was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend who was deeply cherished by many. Leon will be remembered for being hardworking, loyal, dependable, a good provider and full of life. His unwavering faith was carried out in his daily life. Above all else, Leon found the greatest joy and satisfaction in spending time with his family. His contagious laugh and humor followed him wherever he went. Leon had a love for music. For many years he and his wife Cathy sang together at their church. Before his marriage to Cathy, he and his buddies would go "Wedding Reception Crashing" in Leelanau County to dance to the polkas.

Leon was a founding Charter Member of the Interlochen Bible Church.

Leon was preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, sister, Ann Marie Bridson, & grandson, Brandon Corwin.

Leon is survived by his wife Cathy, their children, Christina (Ken) Corwin, Leon "Kevin" (Toni) Chilson and Kimberly (Steve) Garvin, eleven Grandchildren, Ashley, Drew, Mayleah, Christopher, Zachary, Madison, Cody, Bailee & Nicholas. 12 and soon to be 13 Great Grandchildren, Two brothers, Donald 'Edward' (Linda) Chilson, Howard (Janet) Chilson, brother-in-law Bernie Bridson & his beloved Sheltie Mia.

Leon was lovingly cared for at home by his wife Cathy. The family also wishes to extend their profound gratitude to the kind and compassionate care from Hospice of Michigan. With their support Leon was able to stay at home where he wanted to be.

The funeral service will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 4 pm, with visitation beginning one hour prior at the Cornerstone Church in Kingsley. A graveside service will be held in the Spring at Grant Township Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Hospice of Michigan, Cornerstone Church of Kingsley or Interlochen Bible Church.