Leonard Contillo Jr.

East Lyme — Leonard G. Contillo Jr., formerly of Montville, passed June 5, 2023, after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Born Oct. 18, 1946, he was the son of Leonard G. Contillo Sr. and Theresa (Alarie) Contillo.

Leonard was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was a longtime New York Yankees and UConn basketball fan. He was born in Johnston, R.I., and moved to New London when his father opened Professional Pharmacy.

Leonard attended New London High School and then obtained a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of New Haven. While attending college, he was employed as a draftsman at Millstone. After obtaining his chemistry degree, he then became employed at Pfizer Inc. until his retirement in 2005 as a principal scientist. While working at Pfizer, he set up the first DNA and peptide synthesis laboratories and has several patents in his name. He also played for the Pfizer softball leagues for many years.

Leonard leaves behind his wife, Monika Contillo, of nearly 55 years; his daughter Michele Lemieux (and husband Wayne Nogler) of Uncasville; and his son Leonard G. Contillo III (and wife Karla) of San Diego, Calif. He also leaves behind his younger brothers, David (and wife Carol), Alan (and wife Maureen), Paul (and wife Jane), and Mark Contillo. His brother John Contillo predeceased him. He also leaves behind his younger sisters, Paula Ranelli, Karen (and Michael) McBride, and Mary Mattson.

He is lovingly remembered by his granddaughters, Sarah Ouellette, Kristen Lemieux (and husband Omar Elhadhoudi), and Alessia Contillo. He also leaves behind six great-grandchildren, whom he adored.

The family will receive relatives and friends from

5 to 7 p.m. Friday, June 9, at the Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 12 Ocean Ave., New London. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 10, at St. Mary Church, 10 Huntington St., New London. Interment will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, Jefferson Avenue, New London.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the family may be shared at www. neilanfuneralhome.com.