John Leone
Norwich — John Leone, 96, of Norwich, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018.
He was born in Norwich, on April 11, 1922, the son of the late Domenico and Donata (Cianfarani) Leone. In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by sisters, Ann McCracken, Evelyn Wasik, Carmella Leone; and brother, Anthony Leone. He was also predeceased by his former wife, Rita Leone, the mother of his four children.
John is survived by his brother, Donald Leone; and his children, Maureen McGuinness (Michael), John Leone (Nancy), Carol McGuffick (James) and James Leone (Donna). He also leaves behind seven grandchildren, Kate, Chris (who named him “Ump”), Jeffrey, Leslie, Beth, Amanda, and Marie; 14 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
A proud veteran of World War II, John served in the U.S. Navy, where he learned his lifelong electrical trade. He later worked for the CL&P Co., where he retired in 1985 as a manager of the Montville plant. An outstanding athlete in high school, John helped establish the youth football league in Norwich. He was extremely proud of his sons, and also his grandchildren, who went on to pursue athletics in college and coaching. Although a loyal Yankees fan, his greatest pleasure was watching a UConn women’s basketball game.
Passionate about his Italian heritage, John visited Italy many times along with his son, Jim. Together, they received their Italian citizenship, visited family, explored the country, made new friends, and enjoyed everything Italian.
John was admired and respected by all. He was known for his friendly manner and his willingness to help people. He was devoted to his family and always sincerely happy to give his time and to share his many talents and abilities, including electrical construction, household repairs, baking traditional family recipes, and caning antique chairs.
John’s family is especially grateful to Lillie Howard—his companion of 30 years—for the love and friendship she gave him. The family would also like to thank Sheila Morgan for her friendship, as well as Josepha and Nate Brilius for their devoted care.
John’s family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018, at the Woyasz & Son Funeral Service, 141 Central Ave., Norwich. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 2, at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, 213 Broadway, Norwich. Guests are asked to meet directly at church on Friday morning. Burial arrangements are private; however, military honors will take place at church following the Mass.
In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to the John Leone Scholarship Fund at Saint Bernard School, 1593 Norwich-New London Turnpike, Uncasville, CT 06382.