Obituary of John Leone

Thursday, November 16th, 2023 -John passed away peacefully at home with his beloved wife of almost 40 years, and dog, Ivy, by his side. He fought a courageous, year-long battle with pancreatic cancer. 

He is survived by his wife, Michelle Leone (D'Orazio); loving children, Nicole (Leone) and Fortunato Parlato and Michael and Sarah Leone; grandchildren, Marianna, Charlotte, Daisy, Lorenzo, and Viviana; mother, Barbara Leone; father-in-law, Angelo D'Orazio; brother, Raymond (Kathy) Leone, sisters, Janet Leone and Clarice (Patrick) Clancy; brother-in-law, Steve (Debbie) D'Orazio, and sister-in-law, Paula (Brian) Luke, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins who loved him. He is predeceased by his father, Comillo "Sonny" Leone and mother-in-law, Beatrice D'Orazio. John was beloved by so many friends, neighbors, and coworkers and their support during this battle has brought comfort and joy to his family. 

The ultimate family guy, John was happiest when surrounded by his grandchildren, taking long walks, and enjoying good food and wine with those he loved. His wife, Michelle, was the center of everything he did. Their love was something everyone aspired to have. That foundation of love and family was passed to his children, Nicole and Michael, and can be seen in the families they’ve built. He was a kid at heart and made everyone around him laugh.

John had a close circle of longtime friends. John's oldest friend, Jim Bellave, could keep up with his quick sense of humor and, in later years, enjoyed spending time with both him and Becky. Annual summer trips to Saratoga for the horse races with Gary and Michelle Viele were always a favorite, and many memorable vacations and bottles of wine were shared with Bob and Stacy Drelick.

His professional passion for engineering and innovation was reflected in all he did. His exceptional ability to create made him excel at anything he put his mind to like making Halloween costumes, sewing curtains, building decks, painting, and cooking. He was always ready to share his knowledge with those around him or anyone who asked for it.

The Leone family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to his CooperVision family for the generosity and support they provided during his illness.

“John loved to play the role of the tough guy – with his quick wit and laser sharp tongue, he kept leadership honest, team members entertained and the HR team on high alert! But his tough guy act was just that – an act. His kindness, generosity, and warm spirit touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him.” – Dave Olear, Plant Director - CooperVision Scottsville

The family would like to also thank the Lipson and Wilmot Cancer Centers, and the URMC Home Hospice and Palliative Care Teams for their wonderful care. 

John preferred dogs to people and knew most of his neighbors as their dog’s mom and dad. He had planned to spend his nearing retirement walking dogs at Lollypop farm. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Humane Society at Lollypop Farm. 

Friends and family may call on Tuesday, November 21^st from 4pm-7pm at Jennings Nulton & Mattle Funeral Home at 1704 Penfield Rd, Penfield, NY 14526. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, November 22^nd at 10am at St. Joseph’s Church at 43 Gebhardt Rd, Penfield, NY 14526.