Gerard A. Leo (Jerry) passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 13, 2019 where he was residing at Harmony Village, Paramus, NJ. Formerly living at Seabrook, Tinton Falls, NJ, Jerry celebrated his 90th birthday last month, and is survived by his wife of 67 years, Kathleen (nee Cooney), daughters Nancy and Donna, and cousins Liz Monaco, Janette Nocella, and Judie Johns.
A lover of sports, most particularly the Yankees, Jerry was athletic throughout his life…basketball, waterskiing, tennis, golf, lap swimming, long distant walking, and touch football. He enjoyed billiards, dancing the Lindy, and singing, particularly songs from the 40’s with “Swing” and Sinatra being favorites. Born in Brooklyn, Jerry grew up in Hollis, Queens with a wide group of “pals” from the schoolyard who remained lifelong friends, often gathering for reunions well into this century.
After retirement from Lucent Technologies (Western Electric), Jerry and Kathleen traveled quite a bit, often inspired by James Michener novels of which he read most, if not all. For at least a decade, the Leo’s were snowbirds, traveling to warmer places including the Costa Del Sol for two seasons, accompanied by close friends: the Fogarty’s, Tellarico’s and Rowlands from Long Island.
Jerry enjoyed a dry martini (“think vermouth” he would sometimes say), and a good Italian meal, particularly from his favorite Irish cook, beloved wife “Kay.”
Cremation was held privately for the family. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Kathleen Leo c/o Harmony Village, 189 Paramus Road, Paramus, NJ 07652. In lieu of flowers, donations to either the Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s or Buck https://www.buckinstitute.org/support/#hang-out-with-us would be appreciated.
Gerard's Guestbook
On the first go around Jerry sang it from his seat. By the time the 12th day came around, and after perhaps as many martini's ("think vermouth") he was belting it out in a voice that would make Sinatra proud.
Jerry, you will be missed, but always remembered.
