Kenzie Mae Leonardo

Kenzie Mae Leonardo, age 11, of New Richland, MN, passed away on October 27, 2025, at her home. Kenzie was a bright light whose laughter, energy, and kindness touched everyone who knew her.

A proud 6th grader at NRHEG Schools, Kenzie was having her best year yet—loving every moment of school, especially the friendships and fun that came with it. She was a proud member of the volleyball team, where she shined with her powerful serves, fearless dives to save a ball, and infectious team spirit.

Kenzie adored her family with all her heart. Her cousins were some of her closest friends—especially Kyla—and she looked up to her big brother, Jayce, with admiration and love. Ever the protective sister and cousin, she watched out for her little brother, Reid, and younger family members with a fierce and tender heart. Her aunts will forever remember the way she would begin every conversation with a cheerful “Hey, Auntie.”

She was a girl of many sides—a tomboy who loved lake days and the outdoors; especially dancing in the rain. She was a girl caught between a world of still wanting to play house and baby dolls and doing big girl stuff like painting her nails and doing her makeup. She especially loved doing spa days with her friends and cousins – doing each other’s hair, skincare, and nails. Kenzie had a special sweet tooth and could never resist her great-grandma Kathy’s famous chocolate oaties. Her favorite color was pink. She loved to dance and sip Starbucks. She loved making people laugh and would fill every room with laughter and joy.

Known affectionately by her family as “Kenzie Mae the Milkyway,” she was truly one of a kind. Her smile could light up any room, and her spirit was delightfully sour and sweet. Strong-willed, kind, and unforgettable, she left love wherever she went.

Kenzie’s memory will forever be cherished by her parents, Keith and Melisa (Berg) Leonardo; her brothers, Jayce (Mariah Busch) and Reid; her grandparents, Kim and Marcia Berg; great-grandma, Kathy Anderson and great-grandparents Gary and Lorraine Berg; aunties, Heather (Eric) Hendrickson, Rachael (Craig) Eustice, Jody Leonardo; cousins; her many friends; and her pups, Buddy and Oliver.

She was preceded in death by her grandmother; Patricia Boevers; and great grandpa, Eddie Anderson and Poppie (Harry Leonardo Sr.)

Though her time here was far too short, the joy and love Kenzie brought to the world will shine on forever bright and beautiful, just like her.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Richland, MN; Pastor Trish Reedstrom and Pastor Mary Iverson will officiate. The family will greet guests at a visitation from 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM at the church, prior to the service. Interment will be at St Olaf Cemetery in New Richland, MN.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family.