Leonard “Len” Alan Toohey (Ret. Navy) passed away at his home in Miles City, Montana on January 16, 2023.
On January 3, 1947, Len was born the youngest of 3 siblings, to Matthew and Lyda Rose (Wheeler) Toohey. He grew up in Ashland, Montana and could not wait to follow in the footsteps of his big brother, Joe Toohey. In 1964, at the age of 17, he entered the U.S. Navy where he had extensive special forces training. He served 2 tours of duty during the Vietnam War, where he was a member of the Elite Navy Seawolves HAL-3 (the highest decorated detachment in U.S. history), Reconnaissance Attack Squadron One. He was a highly decorated service member. Some of his medals include (but not limited to) the Purple Heart, 4 Navy Good Conduct medals, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Campaign Service with Bronze Star, National Defense Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.
Dragsters and hotrods were a huge part of his life away from the military. In the late 1970’s he made it into the semifinals of the NHRA Winter Nationals in Bakersfield, California. His rearend dragster blew a head gasket, ending his winning streak that year. Len had several race cars and street rods throughout his life. His dream car had always been the 1932 3-window Ford Coupe. He was finally able to have one in his possession 3 years before his passing.
He was also a talented artist with charcoal pencils and paint on canvas. Hunting and fishing were also hobbies of his as he loved the outdoors.
Leonard is survived by his sister, Eva Mckelvey of Ashland, MT; sons Matthew L. Toohey of Billings, MT, Matthew C. Toohey of Panama City, FL., and Lance Toohey of Sturgis, SD; daughters Charlotte Cooper of Billings, MT and Renee Freeman of Houston, TX and grandchildren.
Leonard is preceded in death by his second wife Carole Lee Toohey, his brother Joseph Toohey, and his parents Matthew and Lyda Toohey.
A graveside service with military honors will be held on Thursday, February 2, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at the Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery.
Service Schedule
Graveside Service with Full Military Honors
1:00 PM
Thursday February 2, 2023
Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Miles City, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Graveside Service with Full Military Honors
1:00 PM
Thursday February 2, 2023
Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Miles City, Montana 59301
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Truston Gilger says
I am at a loss for words. I just wished Len a Happy Birthday. Len survived so much and life seemed to be getting better for him. It just doesn’t seem fair. I offer my humble condolences. I’m so very sorry for your loss.
Carla & Jay Johnson says
We are sorry that we didn’t get to visit you before you left Uncle Leonard. Rest in peace and say hello to grama Lyda, Dad and Uncle Joe for us! Now you and Uncle Joe can be together at that big Casino in heaven! Don’t worry about Baby and Pumpkin as we will take good care of them for you! God Bless you!
Patricia Houseman says
Eva, Carla, Glenda sorry for your loss of Leonard. May he rest in peace.
Keenan says
Keenan James Bigback sends his condolences to his grandpa’s loved ones.