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his friends called him t
Thomas J. Leonard |
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***************************** I had the privilege to spend several days with Thomas in Sydney late in 2002...what a shock! Here was a man with a vision that expanded daily and challenged us to expand with him. Please ensure that his fantastic legacy, Coachville continues to grow in his image and reflects his passion. From the other side of the World our sorrow matches your own. Peter Friend ***************************** What can I say... I am in deep shock and sorrow, this is so unexpected, so untimely... He changed my life. I owe him lots and lots... I feel the responsibility to merge his dream into mine. I hope his new journey to wherever he is going will be full of light. Dost C. Deniz ***************************** Please convey my sympathy to Thomas' family. The coaching profession will miss his presence deeply. My prayers are with them. Jeanne
Lewis, Life Coach and Consultant ***************************** Thomas- May God bless you for your efforts to support the coaching profession, and may He grant your soul eternal rest. Thank you for all that you have done to empower and support your fellow coaches. Even though I never had the opportunity to meet you, I am deeply saddened by your passing and will miss you. Kimberly
Cope ***************************** I'm sorry to hear of Thomas's demise. He seemed like a great person. God bless his family. Ron Sukenick ***************************** Perhaps the advantage to producing so much in so short a time is that you get to move on sooner than most! While we will miss your presence and inspiration, I rejoice to see you enter a realm where all is truly possible. Burn bight Thomas, I'll be watching for a new and magnificent star to be "sighted", in the very near future! Warmly, Rosemary Rosemary Davies-Janes - Chief Creatologist, MIBOSO ***************************** Thomas's legacy will be the thousands of people --- just like me --- whom he profoundly impacted and never knew about it. I met Thomas a couple of times at meetings and was inspired by his energy, creativity and perspective. I will personally miss what he brought to my world. Bob Pecor ***************************** Our revered leader, colleague, and friend... Transcendent Humble Omnipresent Mentor Astoundingly articulate Stimulating ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Loving leader Entrepreneur Original Navigator Approachable Raison d'etre Dedicated ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ With much love and profound gratitude, Patricia E. Osborne ***************************** I am saddened to hear of your loss. I am born in the same year and know that it is not the length of time we spend here on earth that counts - it is the quality of that life. Thomas reached many with his insights and wisdom and I wish you and him every blessing. Marie ***************************** Such a sad loss to us all. We will remember his vision and his inspiration. Roz Tritton ***************************** My condolences to all of you at Coachville, especially to you Andrea. I know he held you in great esteem. It is such a shock to hear about someone who you have had an email subscription communication with, go so suddenly. Thomas was so energetic, passionate and alive. His energy will definitely be missed. However if anything, I feel Thomas left a great legacy. He showed by example what authentic energy and passion looks like. And for that I thank him. Mireille ***************************** I feel so sad to hear this news. I so looked forward to enjoying many years to come of Thomas' tremendous creativity, enthusiasm, and leadership. He so clearly loved the profession of coaching, and cared deeply about all of us working as coaches. I send love to all those who knew him well, and will pray for his soul's swift journey home into spirit. Leah Erwin ***************************** Dear Thomas - Until today I never realized how much I valued you. Even though I did not know you personally, you had a powerful impact on my life. I have been coaching full-time for 10 years , and during that time have received more inspiration, ideas, material, models, insights, e-mails and support from you than from all other coaches I have met combined. You helped me realize that I was a professional. You also created a community for me to belong to - a community that will continue for many many years to come. I have met many entrepreneurs in my time, but I've never met another who gave as much and gave as selflessly as you. Your brilliance and propensity to take action is an inspiration. I can honestly say that I respect you and appreciate you more than any business professional I have ever known. I am grateful for the gifts you so generously made available to me, and I shall miss you terribly. Thank you, Thomas. I wish you peace and I send my prayers to your family and all those who had the privilege to know you. With love, Andrew Barber-Starkey, MCC Vancouver, Canada ***************************** I'm so sad to hear the news. I hope you are all OK there. Sue ***************************** The world will never be the same again. Thomas was an inspiration to myself and coaches worldwide. As part of the R & D team, Thomas would always respond promptly, and thankfully, to useful comments. I could never believe the energy that was forthcoming from the man, together with his constant innovation and thoughts for the future of coaching. I saw him in London last October and was looking forward to seeing him again next month. Thomas, you will sorely be missed. My sincere condolences go to your family on their sad loss. I am at a loss for more words, except to say "Rest in peace. You will never be forgotten". Eric Gilston - "Coach & Courses", England. ***************************** Whilst Thomas has passed away he lives on in the hearts and minds of many including the great coaches who have learnt so much from such him and his work. Brian, Albuquerque ***************************** Dear Thomas: I want to take this opportunity to say goodbye for now. I have been numbed this morning on hearing the news of your death. We will miss you so, as the words of a great song writer, Joni Mitchell suggest, "Don't it always seem to go you don't know what you've lost till its gone....." I am reminded of everything you stood for and believed in, right now. It is indeed as if my life has flashed past my eyes that point when one "gets-it." No doubt before you left us Thomas you had this departing experience. I wonder what you thought when the final vision flashed up for you..... I have been inspired by you and your verve, your use of language and your belief in people. You have a place in my life, forever. Thanks for sharing with us all. Love Bill Palmer ***************************** May God help all your loved ones to bear this sudden mishap. With Condolences... Sumira Lund ***************************** I've only been coaching for a few months now but already Thomas Leonard was one of my heroes...and I can't believe he's dead. Perhaps it was prophetic that he described how his "dread" had totally gone a short while ago...."Perfect Love cast out fear". I keep expecting to hear that it's some awful horrible mistake and that he's really alive....all I can think of is the words of Don McLean's "Vincent"...."the world was never made for one as beautiful as you"..... I'll keep him in my prayers.... Anne ***************************** I only met him once but his energy and commitment to others was palpable. I was shocked and saddened by the notification of his death. Oh how fragile life is and how important it is that we demonstrate the passion and commitment in our own lives that Thomas did in his. Sara Orem
***************************** I have just recently begun to explore the are of coaching and frequently read about the contributions that Thomas Leonard has made to this profession. I want to extend my deepest condolences to Mr. Leonard's family, friends and colleagues. Mr. Leonard's untimely passing is a loss to us all. Sincerely,
***************************** Jan and I were privileged to have spent 2 days with Thomas at a recent Australian program. He was an inspiring person who gave 'in abundance'. Greatly missed. ***************************** Thomas, thank you for your contribution to coaching. My deepest sympathy to your family. COACHING LEADS TO SUCCESS Yours in Coaching Ben Wilfred ***************************** My deepest sympathy to the Leonard family. We will be holding you up in prayer. Holly Cumming Nashville, TN
***************************** Good morning This news is very sad. Condolences to all his immediate family and adopted coaching family. Rob Campbell ***************************** This is a sad day for the coaching community. My condolences to Thomas's family and to all. I became a Coachville member within those first few months. Over the time Thomas has become a part of my life on almost a daily basis. He did what so many of us are striving for he had great courage and took something he really believed and made it happen-Boy did he make it happen. I am glad that I have been just a tiny part of his dream as he is still helping me to work toward my own. He will be greatly missed. With sadness, Shirley ***************************** Dear Susan and Andrea, I can only begin to imagine how you must feel right now as I am in tears myself. Having just seen Thomas in Atlanta it's just inconceivable that he is gone. I know the two of you have worked with him particularly closely and he valued both of you so much. Thomas is irreplaceable, but I have faith that the Coachville Community will step up and that together we will find a new way to carry forward Thomas' legacy. I don't know what specifically to offer at this point, but know that I am available now and later to serve. With Deepest Sympathy and Love, Marie Kane ***************************** Do not stand at my grave and weep; I am not there. I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush I am the swift uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there. I did not die. Author unknown - commonly attributed to several sources - mostly Mary Frye (1932) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ GOODBYE COACHING'S MENTOR AND FRIEND (Adapted from Elton John and Bernie Taupin) And it seems to me you lived your life like a candle in the wind, never fading with the sunset when the rain set in. And your footsteps will always fall here, along Coaching’s greenest hills, your candle’s burned out long before your legend ever will.
Creativity we’ve lost, these empty days without your spark. This torch we’ll always carry for your inspiring life. And even though we try, the truth brings us to tears. All our words cannot express the joy you brought us through the years.
And it seems to me you lived your life like a candle in the wind, never fading with the sunset when the rain set in. And your footsteps will always fall here, along Coaching’s greenest hills, your candle’s burned out long before your legend ever will. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Thank you, Thomas, for burning brightly while you were here. Don ***************************** I write with great sympathy to friends, family, the coaching community and to all who knew Thomas Leonard. I am stunned and saddened, although I never met Thomas in person. He clearly impacted the world in an awesome & inspiring way; the world has lost a brilliant light with his passing. However, his genius, contribution and passion will live on through the rest of us who were touched by him. In gratitude & sympathy, Liz Morris ***************************** Give our love to his family. Everyone who used your web site felt like they knew him. Carol Johnson ***************************** Thomas, If The Purpose of a Man's Life is to live it in such a way that he helps his fellow men then you have achieved that purpose, in fewer years than many, and better I suspect than many will achieve no matter how many years they may have. Although I never met you I am been greatly impressed upon by our energy, your vocation and your generosity. May those whom you have worked with in this life continue to be inspired by your memory. Stay always in the Love of God, however you may have recognized Him. Chris, NZ ***************************** We experienced something tremendous in our relationship over the years. I will cherish these memories as the wonderful gift of our friendship. You will live on in my heart forever. No doubt we will hear of top 10's from your crossing over. Love in friendship, Marlene ***************************** My tears, my pain and my silence is with you... Namaste! Samy Chong, Toronto ***************************** Thomas...Dear Being of Light: I know you will be a blessing for the field of coaching from your newest vantage point. You wouldn't let a thing like transitioning, stop you from affecting our calling. We coaches owe you more than we can ever repay, but your legacy will live on through us. Now we have a guaranteed reason to make sure our profession will make you proud in the coming decades. You will be missed more than words can express. All love, Tami Walsh, M.A. ***************************** Although we never met, I am truly grateful for your vision and your ability to help those of us at AssistU realize our dreams. You will be truly missed. Rhonda Middleton, Virtual Assistant ***************************** Dear Thomas , Although we never met in the flesh I feel – through your many gifts to coaching and this community – I know you well. Your shining example of service and ingenuity challenged and emboldened to be my best, to give my best and to serve this work I so love, and recognized the value at both ends of the equation in new and deeper ways. Through your gifts of sharing and inviting sharing my creativity has been sparked and nourished, and my dreams fed. Through your exceptional leadership I have embraced my ability to lead by serving from my heart. Thank you for your gifts. I’ve been changed and made more by them all. Love, hugs & gratitude, Lissa Bergin-Boles ***************************** Thomas personified Inspiration. By example Thomas gave so many of us a real life example of how courageous self discovery can lead to great things. A Visionary, an innovator, a leader and yet at the same time a vulnerable and accessible human being. As much as he will be missed, his legacy will continue to serve and inspire so many individuals in the years to come. Jan V. Solomita - Life Coach ***************************** Dear Family Member's of Thomas Leonard: I recently joined the Coaching profession as a result of hearing Thomas Leonard talk passionately about Coaching. Much of the material that I have been introduced to was Thomas's vision. His brilliance will be missed. My sincere wishes and prayers to his family. You should know that his spirit lives on in the Coaching Community. I am so happy that I volunteered and had the pleasure of meeting Thomas when he visited NY. In Sympathy, Victoria Alexander ***************************** Thomas, Your star will always shine in the world through your gifts to coaching. You may have been a rascal, but a true angel nonetheless. You will be missed. With deep respect, Marcia Reynolds ***************************** Thank you Thomas...I guess a spirit as beautiful as yours does not stay to long on the earth realm...I thank you for all that you are ...i wanted to meet you and you are so inspiring that I wanted everyone to know about you ...thank you Watch over and guide us now to continue your dream. Love Colleen Quinn ***************************** We will miss you Thomas. You were a man of vision, action and generosity that serves as a model to thousands of people. Your inspiration will live on in all of us in the coaching world. Thank you! Phil Woolwine ***************************** As the chock of the news of Thomas Leonard heart attack came on my computer screen, I paused, stopped and thought. What would he have wanted me to do to continue his legacy? In his memory, Thomas Leonard would have wanted me to continue his vision of improving, transforming and helping people through coaching, world wide. Inger Hansen, CPC ***************************** Without you Thomas coaching would never have happened. I am so thankful that you inspired me to achieve my Present Perfect, and now you are at your next level, keep on keeping on and as always, COACHING LEADS TO SUCCESS Yours in Coaching PaTrisha Anne Todd ***************************** Thank you Thomas for all you created. Wherever you are now please continue to make the Present Perfect. With love to a man of vision. Yours in Coaching PaTrisha Anne Todd ***************************** It was Thomas's book, The Portable Coach, which inspired me to become a coach. I was thrilled to be at his London seminar recently. I am so very sad at his passing. Phil Bilzon, Nottingham, England ***************************** To Thomas: Thanks to you Thomas, for your dream, your vision, your gift. Thanks to you Thomas, I found my desire crystallized in your creation. Thanks to you Thomas, I got brave. Thanks to you Thomas, I was given somewhere to go. Thanks to you Thomas, I was no longer small. Thanks to you Thomas, I found my voice. Thanks to you Thomas, many have come together. Thanks to you Thomas, many have and will benefit. Thanks to you Thomas, the world is a better place. Thanks to you Thomas, a tremendous shift occurred. Thanks to you Thomas, the world grew. I know you will continue to shine your light, Through a thought, or a clarifying moment, Though sunshine, or a chance meeting, Through a whisper or a rush of inspiration, Even in a drop of rain. I will watch and I will know it is you there. I will remember and I will keep going. And I will be more then I was before. Keep up the good work. Karen Heading, 2/11/03 ***************************** Sorry and you will be greatly missed Stafford Glaus ***************************** I started R & D'ing with Thomas seven years ago. He was the primary supporter on my journey and passion with coaching. I will miss HIS passion and voice and will certainly continue to do the work that he taught me so ably. Sharon Hooper ***************************** Thank you for your incredible contribution to the world. Your teaching, sharing, and passion will live on. God bless you, your family and friends, Courage and Passion, Dave Rogers, Singapore ***************************** Thank you for your acknowledgement of the passing of Thomas. I was privileged to witness him in person at the Vegas conference last year. What a tremendous role model of coaching skills and acumen. This is a tremendous loss to us as his clients. But as he would have said himself, every good coach recognizes the perfection in the dilemma their clients find themselves in. Living now without his guidance and insight is an immediate dilemma but one that he has spent his life preparing us for. Thank you Thomas. May God bless you and the spirit you instilled in us all. Steve Wilkendorf, Seattle, WA ***************************** The news of T's death - shocking and sorrowful. A moment passes, I think rejoice in a life well lived with exuberance and passion. Next, Lee Ann Womack's voice on the radio singing, "I hope you dance ..." Thank you, T for inspiring us all to DANCE. I Hope You Dance I hope you never loose your sense of wonder You get your fill to eat But always keep that hunger May you never take one single breath for granted God forbid love ever leave you empty handed
I hope you still feel small When you stand beside the Ocean Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens Promise me that you'll give faith a fighting chance And when you get the choice to sit it out or Dance
I hope you Dance I hope you Dance....
I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance Never settle for the path of least resistance Livin' might mean takin' chances But their with takin' Lovin' might be a mistake But it's worth makin'
Don't let some hell bent heart leave you bitter When you come close to sellin' out reconsider Give the Heavens above more than just a passing glance And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance...
I hope you dance I hope you dance....
I hope you still feel small When you stand beside the ocean Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens
Promise me that you'll give faith a fighting chance and when you get the choice toy sit it out or dance
.....Dance I hope you Dance
It is with deep shock that I have received this tragic news. I had the privilege of meeting Thomas on only two occasions in London, but he made a deep and lasting impression on me and on my life as a coach. What I loved about Thomas was his generosity of spirit, his knowledge sharing and his innovativeness and creativeness. He was a true inspiration and an outstanding leader in the coaching world. He will be sorely missed by all whose lives he touched. Anthea Yamey ***************************** I am so sorry to hear of Thomas Leonard’s death. My heart goes out to his family and friends at this time of sorrow. May God be with them in their time of need. Hazel Courtney ***************************** Thomas was an amazing energetic inspiring loving man and will be deeply missed by the whole coaching world and all those we touch. We will continue his work. Judy Silverstein ***************************** To friends and family of Thomas, I never knew Thomas personally and took maybe one or two Teleclasses from him. However, I did my coaching training with one of his graduates, and so valued the material he offered. I have seen him as a person of boundless energy, creativity, brilliance, savvy, generosity, vision and clarity. I know that he touched many lives beyond what you can know, including mine. I was truly shocked and am saddened to read of his death. I will hold all of you in my thoughts and prayers now and over the coming months as you grieve the loss of this man who was so special to you in a much deeper way. Warmly, Dawn ***************************** Dear Dave, Susan and Andrea, The news about Thomas passing last night came as a huge shock when Susan answered his IM. Words cannot express the feelings and respect I had for him and his contribution to my life and to the coaching community as a whole. In the short time that we developed a personal coaching relationship we grew to "know" each other at a soul level and shared many laughs and visions of the future. I finally felt like someone "got" who I was and was leading me to a wonderful self awareness and I'm sure you had experienced the same in your relationship with him. Losing a mentor, coach and friend in the same moment was something none of us could have been prepared for. I really miss him. He will be missed by many but not never forgotten and his visions will live on. I'm hear for you as a friend to you, an associate and a supporter of the visions he inspired in us all. You have many decisions to make and Id like to offer my support in whatever way manifests. I look forward to connecting with each of you in person to honor Thomas. Love and support, Jim ps...I had written this "quote" last week and was going to share it with him on our coaching call last night... "Live it like its your last day, Experience it like its your first" ***************************** Dear Andrea, I am very sorry to hear of the loss of Thomas and it must be so hard for you who was so close to him. My thoughts are with you. Please let me know how I can help, now, later, anytime. Pat ***************************** I am deeply saddened and terribly, terribly conscious of losing someone who has inspired me, challenged me and encouraged me as a person and as a coach... Thomas was a man of genius and also a man of great compassion. The world has lost a great soul. Jan Lee ***************************** We are deeply shocked by this news. Thomas was a true light to many people, not just in the coaching profession, but also consultants, trainers, facilitators and entrepreneurs. He will be sadly missed. Our deepest regrets go out to his family and friends. Sincerely, Brian Ward ***************************** I was shocked to hear of Thomas' death this morning. I am so sorry to know that he will not be powering up our coaching community again. On the other hand, I know that we are all more present, attractive people because of him. He was a dynamo who died with the same quickness as he lived. I will remember always his awesome energy and incredible generosity. I pray that he is in the loving arms of the Savior, Jesus, at peace with the present. In Christ, Karen Robertson ***************************** I just heard about Thomas's death from a fellow coach. He was so devastated, as I am. Yet he talked about how this inspired him to get his life moving. Even in death, Thomas has an impact. I will miss him. Why did you choose to pass away? If your intention is to give us – the coaches - a really reminder of our importance to spread your mission further to make a better world"......you succeed - again! A great thanks for what you have done and what you will continue to do. Thank you! Birgitta, Sweden ***************************** I'm stunned at the sudden passing of Thomas Leonard. I was so looking forward to whatever was coming up next! But I'm really grateful to have experienced him at his intensive training last fall in Dallas. At least no one can ever say he didn't live every moment to its fullest! Trudy Costa, New coach ***************************** With a sad heart and tears streaming ......... even thought I never met Thomas in person I felt as though I knew him. His whole world was out there for all to see on his personal website - his house, his car, his dog, his friends, his mind, his dreams, I just can't believe it....... I'm sad for the projects he wanted to complete that he will never finish but I will treasure all the empowering messages to the world he has shared to date and we will all continue his work through our messages. He had a great mind, heart and I know he had a great life and where ever he is ..I know he will continue to be a constant source of inspiration With tears, sadness ......love and peace Rosetta Stone ***************************** I grieve for you. Len Kaplan, M.D. ***************************** Thank you… for making a way, for all of us. We will all miss your teaching, coaching, and friendship! Rick C. Ernst ***************************** Each new wave of energy and inspiration strikes the shore washing away the old, revealing the new shoreline. Such is the nature of the spirit of Thomas that has touched me and lives with me each day of my life as I awaken with a reserve of joy attending the crest of every wave in the sea of my life. Go in peace with my forever love, and gratitude, Thomas. Don Foster Gutridge II, CEO Synergy Coach ***************************** I'm deeply saddened.....and regret I never had the privilege of hearing Thomas speak in person...the coaching community and the world has lost something big.....our loss, heaven's gain. Nothing is ever achieved that stays in a dream...Take Action! Becky Sanchez, Coach ***************************** Dear Andrea, I am so deeply upset and shocked about Thomas' passing, so I couldn't begin to imagine what this might be like for you. My heart goes out to you - it was so clear that you shared a very special bond with him. I am so VERY sorry and can only hope that the pain will be eased by the comfort and love from your friends, family, and the coaching community, and that in time, you will be left with great memories and far less pain. With deepest sympathy and a giant hug, Marion ***************************** Thomas Leonard was a very generous man. Like all true leaders he found the way and showed the way. He encouraged us to strive for a degree of excellence we could only dream of on a good day with a following wind. The organization that he set up will continue his vision, empowering and facilitating coaches all over the world. Vale Thomas, a good man with a kind heart. Regards with sympathy, Bill Hill ***************************** Though we never met and I live and work in Australia, Thomas and Coachville was inspirational and extremely helpful. I benefited. My clients benefited. I think the best tribute we can give Thomas is to continue his work and honor his memory by coaching and adding value every time we work with clients. Thank you Thomas. Peter Schmideg, Melbourne, Australia ***************************** Hi I just met him once and truly felt a human being that was generous,caring,and makes a difference in the world. Truly a Sad occasion Cheryl Doran ***************************** Thomas, I only spoke to you once AND your impact on the entire coaching world was ENORMOUS. Thank you for your service, your heart, your stamina, your love for our industry and the gifts it brings to the world. We will miss you and I send my Blessings to you with Love. Trish Reutebuch ***************************** What can you say when someone like Thomas Leonard passes away? A flood of memories come to mind. I have only seen Thomas once, at the Coachville Intensive in Sydney. Not long ago, one year in fact, I didn't even know he exists. And then I discovered coaching and through it I discovered coaching as Thomas has designed it. Complete, trustworthy, forever evolving. Coaching has been his life and he shared his love for it with all of us, thus becoming a close friend to each and everyone of us. We will always remember his teachings, his passion and his beliefs. We should always remember his excitement, vision and all the hard work he put into creating the coaching community as we know it today. Thank you Thomas. May you look down on us and be proud of what you have given us all. Ninive Badilescu ***************************** It seemed to me that the underlying theme of all of Thomas' work was Personal Evolution, whether it was Clean Sweep, Coaching itself, Personal Foundation, or the Perfect Life. Even if Thomas wasn't always right, he was always miles ahead of the rest of us. I can only guess that having mastered the full spectrum of transformation and development in this world, that on some level, Thomas was ready to tackle Evolution into the next. I will deeply miss his maverick spirit, his explosive creativity, his provocative style, and his boundless thinking. Isabel Parlett ***************************** Thomas, I just learned that you have left this physical world for your next adventure. I know that you will not read this, but I wanted to thank you for being the creative, wise genius that you were - while remaining such a real person. I only had the opportunity to meet you one time in Boston, but I will remember you and your impact on my life forever. I, too, am someone who dearly loves my four-legged friend, Kali. If Fringe needs a home where she will be loved and cared for and played with and adored, as I imagine she got from you, I would be more than happy to become her step mom. She will miss you so, as will we. I hope we are able to fill your shoes in a way that can make you proud. Denise Cormier ***************************** Thomas J Leonard, the great visionary, I want to honor his memory by continuing my growth as a coach and to contribute to his belief that coaching can create a better world. Shirley Pordominsky ***************************** Some hours on, I'm still shocked and saddened at the news of Thomas's death. I can't even guess at how many thousands of people he'd impacted or motivated as a coaching pioneer and master coach. Thomas was a creative and inspiring dynamo who first attracted me to the coaching profession and to graduate through CoachU years back. With his prolific output and fascinating flair for entrepreneurial barrier-storming and lateral thinking, I'm guessing there are only a handful of days since then that he hasn't been creating, emailing or workshopping something innovative, fresh and thought-provoking. Those of us in his CoachVille R&D community were personally inspired by his energy and the idea-factory inside his head, occasionally amused or exasperated by his human flaws and sometimes off the wall schemes, but always drawn to his vision and in awe of his energy and output. He gave generously and shared widely in our coaching community. Sincere condolences to Thomas's family, friends and colleagues in your loss. Teri Sawers ***************************** I was very saddened to hear of Thomas' passing. he really made a huge difference in the world. His death reminds us that the measure of a life is not in its length, but in its depth. Love, Ed Wilkinson ***************************** After the initial shock of hearing that such an incredible contributor to our lives is gone I sat back and smiled at the memories of this charming irascible gale force. Thomas was not really 45. He had to be well into his 100's. His contributions, his incredible output! to our lives as coaches were so amazing that his impact will be felt in our community for years to come. I mourn you as a friend Thomas and teacher and express blessings to your family and loved ones. I feel graced and honored at having had the rare opportunity to have known a true wizard. Maya Balle ***************************** My condolences to those closest to Thomas. Although I had not met him in person, I felt that I knew him. A pioneer in his field, a generous spirit who gave to coaching his best and who kept on giving. He will continue to inspire me. May his work continue to inspire us to work in generosity and love as we guide our clients through the boundlessness of their lives. Warmest Regards Dora Antipa ***************************** I did not know Thomas personally. I do know people who were part of his original circle who have gone on to create much as a result of the leadership and creativity he offered. The coaching community lost a tremendous resource and friend. Debbie Baker ***************************** In Memory of Thomas Leonard Dear Chicago coaches, It was with great sadness and regret that I need to inform you that Thomas Leonard passed away last night of a heart attack; he was only 47 years old. According to his father, heart disease ran in the family. I have no further word of when services will be held but I suggest you go to the Coachville.com web site for more information. I was told that they will be posting the latest information sometime today or tomorrow. As one of the founders of the International Coach Federation, and the founder of CoachU and Coachville, not to mention a wonderfully talented, generous, and visionary man, he made tremendous contributions to our profession. I know he will always be viewed as one of the foundational people who helped establish the coaching profession as it is today. I do not think it is an overstatement to say, whether you knew him personally or not, that he has contributed to each of us, as coaches, in many ways we may not even realize. Please join me in saying a prayer for his family and friends, along with the literally thousands of people who will be impacted by his loss, including myself. Many blessings to each of you, Al Spicer, ICF Chicago President ***************************** Dear Everyone on the Coachville List; Well, what timing this news is for me. I just returned from my father's funeral and have been reading the news and e-mails with regard to the death of Thomas Leonard. Like Thomas, my father had serious heart attack on Friday, January 31 and a second one on Monday, February 3 that took his life from all of us. My dad lived a full and fulfilling life, with 4 children, 6 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren and passed from us at 79 years young. While speaking to him on Saturday night, February 1 from his hospital bed in Florida over the telephone, I made sure I told him "I love you" and he said the same just before we said "good-bye." My dad was not one to verbally express his love for his children. The first and only other time I heard him say "I Love You" to me, was at the age of 38 when my wife and I decided to divorce. This time, he said it, again. As a clinical hypnotherapist I believe in the power of the subconscious mind and what happened with my dad reinforces that belief all the more. According to my sister, who was taking care of my mom at the time at their Florida apartment, my dad, who was also my mom's caretaker, prior to his first heart attack on Friday, Jan. 31, had all of her medication organized and lined up in her pill boxes for the following week, a task he never had ready until Sunday night. Also, sitting out on his desk were documents for the car title and registration, moving company paperwork from their move to Florida 1 1/2 years ago, and life insurance information from his union pension program. Interesting coincidence, or did dad know subconsciously, he wasn't coming home? Anyway, despite the loss of my dad, reading the posting of the loss of Thomas Leonard seems to have hit me even harder. I don't know why, maybe it's just the cumulative impact of two sudden losses in a short period of time. I never met the man, but have heard and read a lot about him since joining Coachville about 1 year ago. The people I have met since joining the organization have been outstanding, and I look forward to meeting even more outstanding individuals at the upcoming Marketing Conference in NYC in March. I look forward to honoring Thomas Leonard's life and commitment to the coaching profession by becoming even better at serving the needs of those interested in transforming their lives through the assistance of one of us in the coaching world. Thank you for allowing me this space to reflect on my dad and Thomas Leonard. Best Regards, Skip Weisman ***************************** Just too young. Your thoughts and thinking remain. Michael ***************************** Thomas : I am so very sad to see you go. Actually, it is much deeper than sadness. I love you for everything you did for me. You have no idea what impact you have had on my life. I, too, am a supersensitive person, so I understood you very well from that standpoint. You made me feel better about my sensitivity and the gift that it really is to the people around me as it was a gift to the people around you. I am so appreciative that our world had the blessing of knowing you, even for this very short time. We are all better for having known you. I've told you in many letters how much I admired you. I remember the very first time I met you and shook your hand -- at the first Coachville conference in Las Vegas. That was such a wonderful time for me. I found out about your moving on through Alicia Smith about 3 hours ago and I can't seem to stop crying. I can't believe that it is merely 24 hours ago I received this last R&D email from you -- Absence of You. You did everything perfectly up to the last moment. It is the Absence of You. I am still in shock. I have cried for only two people in my life -- my father when he died and you. You made such an impression on me and changed my life through your vision, through bringing coaching to my life. You had so much love in you to share with everyone. Not many people are willing to share as you did. God Bless you. Now you are with the greatest coach of all, God. I am so sad that you had to go away now. I miss you so very much. I just can't stop crying for you. I love you. I love you. I love you. Now and forever. Your friend, Tara Alexandra Kachaturoff ***************************** Thomas Tonite stars twinkle less flowers pale in hue the world sends laser beams of loving mem'ries to you.
In gratitude Jeannine Ayres ***************************** Words cannot express my shock at hearing of Thomas' sudden death. For the years I have been connected with the coaching community, I have always admired Thomas' inspirational concept of coaching in our world. His genius realized all the benefits that coaching can be to all people. I had expected that this outpouring of wonderful ideas and ways to implement coaching in our world would continue for decades. Thomas was so much a part of the energy and excitement of our profession. I am truly saddened. We all have a challenge to keep the vision alive, and continue with our inventiveness to make Thomas' vision for coaching a reality. Cathy Greven ***************************** Having only met Thomas this weekend at the Full Marketing Practice Conference in Atlanta I was deeply impressed with not only his creative mind but his sincere generosity and love of coaching. I was truly inspired by him and what he had given and was giving to the coaching world. I was looking forward to my next meeting with him in San Francisco and the further learning and inspiration he would offer me and the rest of the coaching profession. God obviously needed him for a higher purpose and for those of us who remain this is our great loss. Thomas has created such a legacy at Coachville.com. I hope that we can continue to be inspired by his contribution long after his passing. To his friends and family, I send my love and condolences. He will be sadly missed! Thomas, wherever you are please know that you made a difference in my life. Sharon Worsley, Toronto, Canada ***************************** Thomas, you gave me hope that life could be more than it is. You modeled living the life of your dreams. You've left at the top of your game. I'm one of many but I know you knew me. You did a great job of being the "first American Pope." You taught us to be who we are and to be in community and to love ourselves and each other. What else was there to teach, really? You made a difference Thomas - Thank you. Jill S. ***************************** Just a word and a prayer for Thomas's family and to all of the coaching community -- that we can all move courageously forward in our lives and professions with the memory of his inspiration, motivation and wisdom, energy and insight. Sue Seel, M.S., CCUG, PCC - Certified Coach Long Island, NY --11790 ***************************** For a legend who could not possibly know his full impact in the world....a huge contribution which will be everlasting. God Bless. Ruth Dillon ***************************** To the family of Thomas Leonard, I was inspired and amazed at the caring and success of Thomas and Coachville. My heartfelt sympathies are with you. Susan Smith, Bemidji, Minnesota ***************************** Dear Andrea, Bryan, Susan and all the CoachVille staff, friends and family of Thomas, You have my most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Thomas' passing leaves a void in the world for tens of thousands of us - and the thousands of clients he touched by setting and improving the standards of coaching. He was, and will continue to be, a beacon for what is possible. It's hard to imagine a world without Thomas. He was a rare light in the business world - and did more for the field of coaching than any single human being. He will be deeply missed. I know right now you are as stunned as the rest of us. Please. If you need help of any kind during the transition, don't hesitate to reach out. I will do what I can to help, and I know there are many others who will step up and pitch in as well. With warm hugs and heartfelt wishes, Kate Arendt ***************************** My prayers and wishes for a lighter heart and a positive outlook go to Mr. Leonard's family on this sad occasion. I am a relatively new member of Coachville, and have found it a valuable resource to me as a beginning Coach. Dianne M. Daniels ***************************** I am stunned and moved. I feel as though I've lost a family member and dear friend. I can only imagine the amount of love of 127,000+ beings going forth to Thomas today. He forged a path in coaching and in our hearts teaching us how to really be with others in a way that makes a profound difference. My condolences go to those of you who had a day-to-day relationship with Thomas. May the pain of loss be filled with the love he generated. (My particular beliefs allow for continuation of life through consciousness and reincarnation so my solace comes from that.) With love, Suzanne Lagay ***************************** Thomas Leonard has been such an influence on me and my decision to become a coach. Although I never got to meet him in person, I did have the privilege of doing a teleclass with him and benefit from all the work that he did with Coachville and so on. I am deeply saddened by this unexpected tragedy. The coaching profession will never be the same without him. I know he will be truly missed by many. Such a sad day:-( Thank you Thomas for all your wisdom, support and for being you. We will miss you! Kathy Nothe ***************************** It is with shock and disbelief that I am writing this note. If the website and staff are indicative of Mr. Leonard, I know that he was a caring and giving person to all that he met. I pray for Great comfort and peace to his family and friends. Since I am relatively new to the Coachville Family, and haven't fully experienced what has been offered to coaching professionals, I do hope that his vision and work can go forward for new coaches. This will always be an invaluable tool. Kindest Regards and Deepest Sympathies, Debbi Adams ***************************** I'm stunned ... I had looked forward to meeting him ...Please extend my condolences. Anonymous ***************************** I can't begin to imagine what Thomas' passing must mean to people who have known and worked with him for a long time. This small tribute comes from someone very new to Thomas' orbit. Nevertheless I feel a terrible wrench even though I met him for the first time only late last year at the coaching intensive in Sydney. I have been so looking forward to seeing him again and learning from him at first hand at the Future of Coaching conference in May. As a newcomer to the world of coaching I found Thomas' approach tremendously welcoming, inclusive and encouraging. While demonstrating how 'simple' or perhaps rather how human, coaching can be at one level, it was so clear in watching him demonstrate and listening to his exposition that he had a profound knowledge and consummate skill. The experience showed me that this was something I wanted to do and showed me too that I wanted to emulate Thomas and his way of coaching. I saw both that I could begin now and that there was no end to the learning that would ensue, that each day, each coaching experience could provide new insights, new understandings, new proficiencies. I am sure he would want the work to go on and not to stop just because he had moved on. Go in peace, Thomas. Des Walsh, Sydney Australia ***************************** I have no words but tears only. He left us as fast as he used to do everything. Marek Wosinski, Ph.D. ***************************** I write this e-mail in my capacity as a Coach and human being who never met Thomas personally but to who, like so many of you, felt like I new him anyway. It was not to many years ago when I approached Thomas for Coaching, sharing my intention to become one of the worlds top Coaches. He politely declined explaining that he does not take on new Coaching clients. It is not often that 'rejection' is inspiring, but he signed of by saying, "thank you and congratulations for who you will become". |
