Lank Leonard

Frank E. "Lank" Leonard was born on January 2, 1896, and passed away on August 1, 1970. He is best remembered as the creator of the long-running newspaper comic strip *Mickey Finn*, which he wrote and drew for more than three decades. Leonard’s path into comics began in the early 20th century, and his signature style—clean, expressive linework with a gentle comedic touch—made *Mickey Finn* a beloved fixture in American newspapers. The strip, which followed the misadventures of a good-natured Irish-American police officer, showcased Leonard’s knack for lighthearted humor and relatable characters. Beyond his own creation, he contributed as an artist, inker, letterer, and writer to titles such as *Big Shot*, *Dixie Dugan*, and *Feature Funnies*, working with collaborators like J. P. McEvoy. His work appeared in comic books from 1938 to 1952, though his legacy rests firmly on the daily and Sunday strips he produced over a prolific career. Leonard’s influence endures among fans of classic newspaper comics, and his steady, unpretentious storytelling remains a benchmark for the medium.