Leonard Aulner, (formerly of Alexandria, SD) passed away peacefully under hospice care in Houston, TX, September 6, 2023. Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be 1:00 PM Tuesday, September 26, 2023 at St. Mary of Mercy Catholic Church in Alexandria, SD with burial at St. Mary of Mercy Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be from 12 noon to 1:00 PM Tuesday, September 26, 2023 at St. Mary of Mercy Catholic Church.

The oldest son of Albert and Frieda (Schulz) Aulner; he was born January 11, 1947. His twin brothers, Robert and Ronald joined them to complete the family in April 1948.

Leonard attended all twelve years of his basic education in Alexandria, graduating in 1965. He then enrolled at the University of South Dakota, Vermillion where he obtained his degree in accounting. After approximately a year on the family farm he spread his wings, heading for Houston, TX.

He gained employment in the oil industry as an accountant, working for several companies through growth, merger, and buy outs. During this time, he prepared for and successfully passed the exam to become a certified public accountant. Through continuing education, he maintained this certificate his whole life. Later he became a financial advisor/manager for several entrepreneurs. Even in retirement he utilized his training and skill by volunteering in many venues to assist others develop computer skills, prepare resumes, and work with finances and taxes.

While living the single life, Leonard remained a very social individual. He had a circle of friends throughout his 50 plus years in Houston. Early on he enjoyed friends from work on hiking and camping expeditions. Later, a more mature group went into rural areas working on an acreage (homecoming for a farm boy). They mowed, fenced, baled hay, shot target practice and imbibed around a firepit. More recently he developed a friendship with a gentleman from India. They went on daily walks, traveled to meet with family and Leonard traveled to India in 2019, staying with the family.

These friends rallied around his in his final days, praying, calling, video chatting, and sending cards and letter. To a person they remarked upon his kindness, care and compassion. This is his legacy.

He is survived by an aunt, Rosie (Heiman) Schulz, sister in-law, Kate Aulner, cousins, and three generations of nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be directed to St Mary of Mercy Parish, PO Box 158, Alexandria, SD 57311 for cemetery maintenance. This was his home parish and final resting place. Leonard was also a member of St. Vincant Paul Parish in Houston.