Leon Denweed​

Leon Denweed, class of 1989, is a community leader and long-time contributor and benefactor to West High School students and athletes.

Leon was born and raised in Bakersfield. At West, Denweed played fullback and nose guard, and led the Vikings to victory, in perhaps the most famous Kern County football game ever played: the 1988 Central Section championship game between West High School and Bakersfield High School with an estimated crowd of 18,000. During that season, Denweed, the most feared component of the West wishbone, racked up 357 yards and five touchdowns in games against Clovis and Redwood leading up to the championship.

While attending West High School he was awarded 1st Team All Area and All League at nose guard and running back. He held multiple weight lifting records at West High as well, many of which still stand. Teammates and coaches who witnessed Leon flex and tax a loaded bar, in the squat rack, were in awe of his strength and power.

After graduating from West High School, Leon went on to play two years for Taft College and won the Potato Bowl championship in 1990.

Leon’s most important work, as a Viking, has been as a generous benefactor, feeding the entire varsity football team, annually and giving generously to the Booker Kilgore golf tournament fundraiser. Year after year, Leon has supported and served the athletes of West High.

Today, Leon currently operates with his wife, DeAundra, two businesses: Nov’s Soul Spot (inspired by his mother, Novelette Denweed), providing top notch catering service to Kern County and beyond, and Renewed Growth Support Services, an independent living service outreach, were he and his staff foster mild/moderate mentally disabled adults, enabling these individuals to live independently and in the community.

Leon is a two time recipient of both the Mac & Cheese Fest of Bakersfield, and the Bakersfield Brunch Fest. He also won first place at the Bakersfield Wing Fest 2018. The delicious waffle desserts he serves at the Kern County Fair are legendary.

Leon has a heart for people and the community. He has contributed to numerous organizations and states that building long lasting relationships is his most important value. He is known for his hospitality and phenomenal food service.

Leon and DeAundra, have four children: Lauryn, LeoNah, Leon, and Lacey. As stalwarts of service, the Denweeds teach their children the importance of community, strong morals and making wise choices, in all aspects of life. Leon devotes his time, skills and knowledge to the success of his family, the family businesses and to the success of his children’s future.