The 62-year-old, who was director of Limerick Civic Trust, died yesterday following a short illness.

Mayor Kiely said: "I am deeply saddened by the death of Denis Leonard, a
true gentleman who devoted his whole life to preserving Limerick's architectural environment and heritage. I have known Denis personally for the last 25 years since I got involved in politics and as a city, we are indebted to him for the wonderful work he has carried out with
Limerick Civic Trust during that time."

The mayor added: "He was one hundred per cent dedicated to improving
Limerick's environment and he always had the city's best interests at the heart of every project. I had started the process where I had hoped to make Denis a Freeman of Limerick and I will make a full statement about that process at a later stage."

Earlier this year Mr Leonard was honoured by the University of Limerick for his work with the Civic Trust since it was established in 1985.

President of UL, Prof Don Barry was fulsome in his praise of Mr Leonard.
"In this important regenerative work, Denis helped in the eliciting of
donations, sponsorship and membership contributions from the private
sector which could then be matched with EU and Government funding. Accountants, architects, lawyers and experts in planning restoration and
conservation generously contributed their services," he said in January.

Denis Leonard's last official function was to attend the formal unveiling of the restored Richard Russell fountain at the People's Park. The fountain, which is the only fountain of its kind in the State, was originally erected in 1877 in honour of Richard Russell, a
highly regarded local employer.

Mr Leonard's remains will lie in repose at the Georgian House, Pery
Square from 3pm tomorrow, Tuesday and his funeral will take place at
St Paul's Church, Dooradoyle at noon on Wednesday.

Denis Leonard is survived by his wife, Deirdre and his three daughters
Rachel, Sarah and Kate.