The New Richland community is mourning the heartbreaking and unexpected loss of Kenzie Mae Leonardo, an 11-year-old sixth grader at NRHEG Schools, who passed away at her home on October 27, 2025. Authorities have confirmed that her death was the result of suicide, leaving family, friends, classmates, and educators in shock and deep grief.

Kenzie, affectionately known by her family as “Kenzie Mae the Milkyway,” was remembered as a bright, kind, and spirited young girl whose laughter and energy touched everyone around her. Those who knew her best say she brought joy wherever she went — a child full of life, love, and light.

A proud student at NRHEG Schools, Kenzie was thriving in sixth grade and “having her best year yet.” She adored her teachers and friends, and her days were filled with laughter, learning, and shared adventures. A member of the NRHEG volleyball team, she was known for her fearless dives, powerful serves, and team spirit that lifted everyone’s morale. Her teammates described her as “the heart of the court” — always cheering, always smiling.

Outside of school, Kenzie was deeply devoted to her family. She looked up to her big brother Jayce with admiration, adored her little brother Reid, and cherished time spent with her cousins — especially Kyla, who was one of her closest friends. Family members shared that Kenzie was a fiercely protective and loving sister and cousin, someone who made everyone feel safe and loved.

Her family fondly remembers her as a girl full of contrasts — a tomboy who loved playing outdoors, dancing in the rain, and lake days, yet also someone who embraced her girly side with “spa days,” nail painting, and makeovers with friends and cousins. She had an infectious laugh, a mischievous sparkle in her eye, and a heart overflowing with kindness.

Her great-grandmother Kathy’s chocolate oaties were among her favorite treats, and pink was her signature color. She loved dancing, Starbucks drinks, and making people laugh — and she had a gift for turning ordinary moments into joyful memories.

Her passing has left a deep void not only in her family’s hearts but across the entire New Richland community. In a statement, the Leonardo family expressed their devastation and gratitude for the overwhelming outpouring of love and support they have received:

“Kenzie was our sunshine — full of laughter, sass, and sweetness. Though her time here was short, she filled our lives with more love than we could ever imagine. Her light will continue to shine through everyone who loved her.”

Friends, classmates, and teachers have also shared heartfelt tributes, describing Kenzie as a caring and genuine young girl whose warmth and humor made a lasting impact on everyone she met.

The funeral service for Kenzie Mae Leonardo will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Richland, Minnesota, with Pastors Trish Reedstrom and Mary Iverson officiating. A visitation will take place prior to the service from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the church. Interment will follow at St. Olaf Cemetery in New Richland.

Kenzie is survived by her loving parents, Keith and Melisa (Berg) Leonardo; her brothers, Jayce (Mariah Busch) and Reid; grandparents, Kim and Marcia Berg; great-grandmother, Kathy Anderson; great-grandparents, Gary and Lorraine Berg; her aunts, Heather (Eric) Hendrickson, Rachael (Craig) Eustice, and Jody Leonardo; numerous cousins, friends, and her beloved dogs, Buddy and Oliver. She was preceded in death by her grandmother Patricia Boevers, great-grandfather Eddie Anderson, and Harry “Poppie” Leonardo Sr.

As the New Richland community mourns, local leaders and educators are urging families to support one another and to continue open conversations about mental health and emotional well-being, especially among young people.

Though Kenzie’s passing is an immeasurable loss, her memory will forever remain a source of light and love for those who knew her. Her laughter, kindness, and strength will live on in every heart she touched.

Rest in peace, sweet Kenzie Mae.
You will forever be remembered — bright, bold, and beautifully loved.