Leonard Dwayne Reed Leonard Dwayne Reed, 85 of Garden Grove, Iowa, formerly of Norwalk, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by family following a brief battle with cancer at the Decatur County Hospital on Friday, August 21, 2026. Leonard will be laid to rest in the Norwalk Cemetery. A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held from 3 to 7 p.m., Thursday, September 10, 2026 at The Cottage 201 E. Salem Ave. Indianola, Iowa 50125

Born December 12, 1940, in Bethany Missouri to Charles Kenneth Reed & Esabee Ingram, Leonard was a man who believed in hard work, family, friendship, and the thrill of a good horse race. To many, he was not only a familiar face at the racetrack from the 1970’s, but a true legend in the Quarter Horse racing industry. His passion for Quarter Horses became a lifelong journey being a member of the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) for many years. He was a longtime board of director member of the Iowa Quarter Horse Racing Association (IQHRA) and was honored with induction into the Iowa Quarter Horse Racing Association Hall of Fame. He was also inducted into the Prairie Meadows Hall of Fame in which not only is an accomplishment but an honor, recognizing his lasting contributions to Quarter Horse racing and the racing community he loved so dearly.

As an established Quarter Horse breeder in Iowa, he took great pride in breeding, raising, and racing horses across the US. Among the many homebred and home raised horses that carried his name and legacy was Bold Six Chick, affectionately known as “Popeye.” Popeye went on to become the winningest horse in Prairie Meadows history, with 23 victories, also inducted into the Prairie Meadows Hall of Fame & the IQHRA Hall of Fame, a remarkable accomplishment that stands as a testament to his knowledge, dedication, and love for the sport.

His accomplishments as a breeder became an important part of his legacy. The horses he bred and raised compiled an impressive racing record of 1,540 starts, 176 wins, 26 stakes wins, 220 second-place finishes, including 23 stakes seconds, and 196 third-place finishes, including 20 stakes thirds, with total earnings of $2,200,862.

His accomplishments as an owner were equally remarkable. Throughout his career, his horses made 1,097 starts, recording 153 wins, including 25 stakes wins, 179 second-place finishes, including 22 stakes seconds, and 155 third-place finishes, including 20 stakes thirds, with total earnings of $1,896,359. Among the many outstanding horses that highlighted Leonard's career, three stand out as especially memorable: Bold Six Chick, “Popeye,” Lika Nightmare, and I've Been Special. Each represented a special chapter in his life as an owner and horseman and reflected the dedication, knowledge, and passion he brought to Quarter Horse racing.

Outside of the racetrack, he was a hardworking businessman and proud owner of Leonard Reed Concrete Contractor, a company he operated for many years before retiring in 2006. His work ethic, honesty, and determination were qualities that defined him throughout his life.

He was also an avid fisherman & hunter, always ready to take advantage of an opportunity to spend time outdoors. Whether it was casting a line or sitting in the woods, he treasured those moments. The annual deer hunt held a special place in his heart, and he wouldn't miss the opportunity to be there. Year after year, he was always present, making memories with family and friends and carrying on a tradition that meant so much to him.

But perhaps his greatest legacy was not found in a trophy, a Hall of Fame, or a business. It was found in the people who knew and loved him. He was a devoted dad and a proud grandpa who cherished his family. He was a brother who could always be counted on and a friend whose presence brought laughter, stories, and memories that will never be forgotten. He had a way of making people feel welcome, and his friendships often lasted a lifetime. Those who knew him will remember his passion for horses, his competitive spirit, his hard work, his stories, his humor, and above all, the love he had for his family and friends.

His footprints are forever left in the Iowa Quarter Horse racing community, at Prairie Meadows, in the horses he bred and raised, and in the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to know him. A true horseman. A hardworking businessman. A devoted family man. A cherished friend. And a legend whose legacy will never be forgotten.

Leonard is survived by his children Becky Reed, Brenda (Craig) Onstot. Grandchildren, Adam, Niccolas, Jerad, Ashley, Brandon, Dustin, Kevin, Kyle, Spencer, Allison, & Mallorie. brothers; Larry & Richard. 18 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild.

Leonard is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 61 years Joyce; his parents; Charles Kenneth & Esabee Reed, son; Cliff Reed, brothers; Raymond, Eugene, Lawerence, Gary, sisters; Doris, Soundra, & Barbara.

A beloved dad, grandpa, brother, and friend, whose life touched countless people and whose legacy will live on for generations.