David Lance Leino

He was our sun. The center of our loving tribe. David Lance Leino, 60 years old, died unexpectedly and peacefully in his sleep at home in Columbus Ohio on Jan 24, 2025, with Jana his bride of 38 years and feisty pups beside him.

A stickler about ambiance since childhood and a wiz at form and function, as Senior Vice President of Stores David played a key role in building the Abercrombie and Fitch brand from ground zero. After 35 years with A&F (and COVID), David launched a second career as an executive vice president of real estate with MedVet Animal Hospitals, in Columbus, Ohio.

David took his high achievements in stride. His purpose and joy were at home in Columbus with Jana and the kids. The worries all parents experience never overshadowed his delight in his offspring. David made one-on-one time for Josh (29), Chase (26), Megan and Matthew (both 23). Secure in his fierce unconditional love, they embraced him as a confidant and friend.

David’s boundless energy, swift wit and self-deprecating humor put people at ease. He was generous, kind, forgiving and down to earth. He didn’t take life or the people he loved for granted. He called his mom every night.

While his environment was upscale finest, David’s personal style was casual with slouchy shoes. He was approachable and friendly in a way that said “Hey, I’m here to listen, laugh, comfort, and hold you tight: I’ve got your back. It’s alright."

Effervescent with a radiant smile, David is our sun, the center of our loving tribe. And we are his legacy of light.

Born: February 29, 1964; Denver, CO

Died: January 24, 2025; Columbus, OH

Survived by his beloved wife, Jana Drinkwine Leino; children Josh, Chase, Megan, and Matthew Leino; mother Gloe Ann Leino; father Robert Leino (Gwen); sister Tami Leino Hanna (Greg); brother Christopher Leino (Sue); mother-in-law Sharon Drinkwine; sister-in-law Jennifer Drinkwine Rexroat (Karl), sister-in-law Jill Drinkwine and 16 nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by brother Michael Eric Leino and father-in-law Robert Drinkwine.

Memorial Service will be held at 1:00PM on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at Drinkwine Family Chapel, 999 W. Littleton Boulevard, Littleton CO 80120.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in memory of David to be made to MedVet: 

American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF) Reach Program https://www.avmf.org/ways-to-give/give-now/ The foundation helps support the medical care of injured or abandoned animals, disaster relief efforts, education, scholarships for technicians and veterinary students, and research to help prevent, diagnose, and treat animal diseases. MedVet doctors do use these fund to support clients with financial needs. 

Medvet Caregiver Relief Fund (MVCF) - a foundation that supports our MedVet Caregivers in times of unplanned financial hardship or disaster. Donations can be mailed to MedVet c/o Sarah Berger 350 E. Wilson Bridge Rd. Worthington, Ohio 43085

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