Dave “Crackers” Lenardo passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones.

He was born to John Junior and Dorothy Lenardo at the Scotia Hospital on March 27, 1950.

He grew up on the family dairy ranch in Port Kenyon, Ferndale, learning both the language and customs of his Portuguese and Danish heritage.

Dave’s education began at Port Kenyon School, then transferred to Ferndale Elementary and High Schools.

Throughout the Eel River Valley, Dave was known as an early riser, fed and milked lots of cows, moved irrigation pipes, cut, raked, baled and hauled hay and tilled the soil.

He also built buildings and miles of fences.

Tractor work was his favorite. Lots of hours were spent mowing grass and weed eating fence lines.

Agriculture was his passion with his strong work ethic and sense of humor.

Country music was always playing, even in the cow barn.

Dave spent most of his time on earth being a good steward to the farmland and animals.

He always enjoyed nature and the outdoors, especially Centerville Beach when the surf fish were running.

Dave is in the presence of his Heavenly Father, experiencing never-ending love joy and peace.

Dave is survived by his siblings: John Lenardo, III, Joan (Tom) Hubner, and Patsy (John) Miranda; and his children: Jereme (and Amber), Heather, Kevin, Shawna, Bernadette, Bradley (and Trisha); and grandchildren: Shaylynn, Kelsey, Hunter, Bradley Jr., Casey, and Charlotte; and his partner Mary Enos-Lenardo.

He is also survived by many wonderful nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents John G. Lenardo Jr. and Dorothy (Hansen) Lenardo and his sister Rita Lenardo.

The family will be holding a private celebration of life.

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