Leone Counihan

Norwich — Leone M. Counihan, 75, of Norwich, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 5, 2018, at Norwichtown Rehabilitation Center.

“Coun” as he was known to his family, co-workers and friends, was known for his hearty laugh, unquestionable loyalty, and love of family and Notre Dame football. Leone was born in Norwich on Oct. 20, 1942, son of Adeline (Leone) and Leonard “Mal” Counihan, both of Norwich. Leone was a lifelong Norwich resident who served the local community as a loyal and dedicated letter carrier with the U.S. Postal Service for 37 years. During those 37 years, Leone was most proud of his standing as a member of the National Association of Letter Carriers Union, in which he served as the local president for consecutive terms.

When Coun wasn’t at work, he could normally be found on most evenings and weekends coaching, refereeing or watching local sports leagues. In addition, he was extremely active in several local organizations including the Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick, Knights of Columbus, and the local high school officiating boards for baseball, basketball and football (where he was on the officiating crew for several CIAC State Championship games). Coun never met a stranger and would go out of his way to have a conversation with any and all letter carriers. His outgoing personality, friendliness, kindness to all, and his love and devotion for his family will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

Leone will be sadly missed by his best friend and loving wife of 53 years, Kathleen (Maine) of Norwich; sons, Leonard (Jeanette) of Rathdrum, Idaho and Sean (Tecia) of Stuttgart, Germany; brother, Patrick (Donna) of Belleair Bluffs, Fla.; grandchildren, Brendan (Sara) of Alexandria, Va. and Bianca (Rathdrum, Idaho); nephew, Daniel Maine (Camp Lejeune, N.C.); stepgrandchildren, Tyler Lee (New York, N.Y.), Tricia Lee (Euless, Texas), Nicholas Molisani (Fort Wayne, Ind.); great-stepgrandchild, Maleeya Dennis (Euless, Texas); and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Leone was predeceased by his parents.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, May 18, 2018, at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, 211 Broadway, Norwich. The family will receive friends from 1 to 3 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 17, 2018, at Woyasz & Son Funeral Home, 141 Central Ave., Norwich.

If desired, in lieu of flowers, family and friends may make donations to “the Fund for Saint Bernard,” Saint Bernard School, Uncasville.