Obituary of Joseph F. Leonard

Leonard, Joseph F., age 89, of Pompton Plains, formerly of Kearny, died peacefully at Renaissance Gardens at Cedar Crest Village on Wednesday, March 25, 2009. He was born and raised in Harrison to James and Mary (Cassidy) Leonard, prior to moving to Kearny during his high school years. He lettered in many sports at Kearny High School and went on to play semi-professional soccer for the German American and Elizabeth Soccer Clubs. Mr. Leonard served in the U.S. Army in northern England prior to his honorable discharge in 1944. He continued in active support of veteran's organizations, serving as Commander of the Kearny Memorial Post AMVETS. Mr. Leonard joined the Hudson County Police Department in 1947 and served for 36 years before retiring in 1983.Joseph remained an active sports enthusiast supporting Kearny Soccer programs. He was inducted into the Kearny Soccer Alumni Association Hall of Fame. He was also an avid Yankee fan.Mr. Leonard is survived by his loving daughter, Patricia and her husband John Sampson; many dear brothers and sisters-in-law; many devoted nieces and nephews and a life-time of good friends. He was a devoted family man.Mr. Leonard was predeceased by his beloved wife, Marie (nee Swegel) in 2005 after 55 years of marriage; his parents and his siblings, Marion Leonard, Florence Makar, and Al and James Leonard.Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral mass on Monday, March 30, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at Cedar Crest Chapel, Cedar Crest Drive, Pompton Plains. Visiting on Sunday, March 29, 2009 from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. at the funeral home.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Eva's Village, Inc., 393 Main St., Paterson, NJ 07501-2815.A Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday at 10:00 a.m. at Cedar Crest Chapel, Cedar Crest Drive, Pompton Plains and will be celebrated by Msgr. Puma. Private cremation to follow.