John F. Leonard, 81, of Howell, N.J., passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 18, 2018, at Sunnyside Manor in Wall.
He was the son of the late John and Isabelle Leonard, born May 5, 1937. He was a devoted husband to his late wife of 56 years, Patricia Leonard. He was predeceased by his brothers Eugene Leonard of California, and Hugh Leonard of North Haledon, N.J. He is survived by his children, John F. Leonard Jr. (Pamela Furlong-Leonard) of Manasquan, N.J., Regina Mulé (Charlie) of Toms River, N.J., and Mary Leonard Von Donsel (Richard Von Donsel), Cortland, N.Y., and his grandchildren Elizabeth Mulé, Charles Mulé and Sara Furlong-Leonard. John is also survived by his brothers, James Leonard (Ingrid), Paterson, N.J., George Leonard (Dee), Manchester, N.J., and a nephew and many nieces.
John was born in Paterson, N.J., graduated from St, John’s High School and attended Seton Hall, Paterson, before beginning a lifelong career with the railroad. His job took him to Buffalo, N.Y., where he worked for Conrail and lived near Lockport, N.Y. for over 20 years. He returned to New Jersey, managing the New York Penn Station ticket office for New Jersey Transit until his retirement.
John developed a love for distance running in his fifties and was very active with area running clubs and the Shore AC. He won many age group awards including a national cross-country championship at age 70. He loved golf, reading and always a good cup of Dunkin coffee. Most important to John was his family. He was always there to offer care and encouragement to his children and grandchildren.
John was very generous and compassionate, never forgetting where he came from, “not bad for a kid from Paterson”. He took great pride in being Irish, Catholic and a Democrat. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Visitation will take place at O’Brien Funeral Home, 2028 Hwy. 35 Wall, N.J., on Sunday, September 23, 2018 from 2-6 P.M. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. William the Abbott Church, Howell, N.J., on Monday, September 24, 2018 at 10:00AM, followed by interment at St. Anne Cemetery, Wall.
In lieu of flowers please contribute to the Alzheimer’s Association or American Cancer Society. Condolences may be sent via www.obrienfuneralhome.com.