Tod A.J. Leeson

Tod Allen James Leeson, age 72, of Lake (formerly of Clare and Midland), passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026. He was born on May 11, 1954, in Beloit, Wisconsin, to Ted and Shirley (Petitt) Leeson. Tod first came to mid-Michigan nearly 48 years ago, at which time he built a successful practice as a Physical Therapist. While he embraced his Michigan home, he never abandoned his Wisconsin roots and remained a devoted Green Bay Packers fan. Tod was an avid golfer, an accomplished tennis player, runner, and a skilled artist. He was also the kind of person who seemed to know the answer to every Jeopardy! question before the contestants even buzzed in. Although he seemed quiet and reserved to some, those fortunate enough to know him well understood the depth of his kindness, compassion and understated humor. He listened without judgment - or with the judgement you needed - offered advice you could trust, and genuinely cared about the people around him. More than anything, Tod was a great and complex man who appreciated life's simple pleasures: a good cigar, a fine single malt, gummy bears, and just about every kind of pie ever baked. He loved traveling and exploring new places. He was also an enthusiastic collector of comic books, smoking pipes, and wristwatches. Mustachioed in his prime, he often preferred to let his facial hair and expressions do the talking. He was a protector by nature, always looking out for family and friends and making sure those he loved felt safe and supported. In recent years, following a spinal cord injury, Tod faced life from a wheelchair. Yet he rarely complained. Instead, he met each day with resilience, gratitude, and a determination to make the best of whatever came his way. His positive attitude and strength were an inspiration to everyone who knew him. On July 27, 2006, Tod married Susan Bicknell-Jourdain. Together, they shared years of laughter, adventure, and unwavering partnership. Tod is survived by his beloved wife, Susan; his children, Stephanie (Rob) Pawloski of Ada, Michigan, Dr. Peter (Ania) Leeson of Alexandria, Virginia, Mark (Julie) Leeson of Zeeland, Michigan, and Brenna Leeson of Hastings, Michigan; his stepdaughters, Jessica (Coty Sowle) Jourdain of Traverse City, Michigan, and Katie (Mitch) Coté of Plymouth, Michigan; his cherished grandchildren, Kya, Faith, Max, Owen, Conrad, and Beau; his brother, David (Linda) Merklein of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin; and his niece, Erin Merklein of Mount Vernon, Washington. Tod was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial service celebrating Tod’s life will be on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at the Eight-Point Lake Association Clubhouse from 1:00-4:00pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mary Free Bed Foundation (https://www.maryfreebed.com/foundation/).

Tod A.J. Leeson

May 11, 1954 - August 31, 2026