Leland was born in Drumright, Oklahoma on January 27, 1944 to the late Lawrence Gail Bear & Rohella (Funk) Bear. He passed from this life at his residence on April 15, 2023 at the age of 79 years, 2 months, & 19 days. Leland was raised & educated in Drumright & was a 1962 graduate of Drumright High School. After High School he joined the United States Navy & served during Vietnam. After his tour of duty, he returned to Drumright and worked alongside his father at Sylvan Supply. He married Zola Carol Schonfield on May 26, 1967 & they made their home in Oilton for many years. Leland eventually went to work as a mechanic for American Airlines for 19 years & had retired in 2004. He was former president of AAEAA and very active in the Drumright – Cushing Elks Lodge. He was also a former member of the Oilton Masonic Lodge #467 & the Oilton Volunteer Fire Department. He enjoyed traveling & spending time with his family & his dogs, Nubbs & Domino. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a Brother: Lawrence Gail Bear, Jr.
His remaining family includes Wife: Carol Bear of Cushing; Children: Chris Bear & spouse Crystal Cox of Oilton – Angela Bunde & husband Larry of Drumright – Scott Bear & Justin Bear, both of Cushing; Grandchildren: Shelbi – Ashley – Cheyenne – Xaviar – Zachary – L. J. – Dusty - & Heather; Great Grandchildren: Grayson – Paisleys – Tobin – Adalynn – Bryson – Raiden – Jordynn – Deavon – Baby McCormick - & Baby Reyes; 2 Sisters: Claudia Decker of Drumright – Visa & Russell Latham of Skiatook; plus SEVERAL Nieces – Nephews – Cousins - other relatives - & friends.