Bernard "Barney" Raymond Leslie

Bernard “Barney” Raymond Leslie, born February 1, 1947, in Sandusky, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, at the age of 79, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.

From an early age, Barney developed a deep love of sports, especially running, and a strong commitment to his Catholic faith and family. A 1965 graduate of Sandusky High School, he excelled as a varsity athlete in basketball, track, and cross-country, earning numerous awards for his talent and determination. His accomplishments later led to his induction into the Sandusky High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 1992. He continued his running career at the University of Toledo, where he was an Academic All-American in track and field and cross-country, and earned his Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics in 1968. Barney remained a passionate and competitive runner throughout his life, completing several major marathons, including the Boston Marathon twice, and joining the elite group of runners who finished a marathon in under three hours.

Barney enjoyed a distinguished career as an engineer at TRW/Northrop Grumman in Dayton for more than 30 years. Yet his greatest pride was always his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose steady care, guidance, and support touched everyone around him. He shared 53 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Janet (Fusco) Leslie. Together they built a home filled with faith and love in Beavercreek, Ohio, and raised their three children. Barney never missed a basketball game, gymnastics meet, or dance recital, always placing his family’s needs first and offering unwavering encouragement and quiet strength.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Janet Leslie; his children, Erin (Matt Shields) Leslie, Brent (Kate) Leslie, and Brooke (Greg) Wancheck; and his six cherished grandchildren, Samuel, Maxwell, Julia, Brynne, Graham, and Theodore. He is also survived by his sisters, Cathy (Larry) Bales, Cindy (Rob) Glovinsky, and Carol (Ty Yukovic) Leslie; his brothers, David (Martha) Leslie and Paul (Debbie) Leslie; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Barney will be remembered for his steadfast devotion to his family, his quiet generosity, and his remarkable strength.