Mr. Robert R. "Bob" Leone Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

UTICA – Mr. Robert R. “Bob” Leone, age 89, went home to his loved ones who went before him on Sunday, June 12, 2022; when he passed he was in the hearts of those he loved most, especially his wife. Robert was born in Utica on July 7, 1932, to the late Joseph A. and Mary (Romeo) Leone. He attended Brandegee Grammar School and worked alongside his father, repairing lawn rotary manual mowers—a trade that he never forgot and of which he was quite proud. Later, during the time of the Korean War, Bob joined the US Army, where he was positioned stateside as a Staff Sergeant. He would remain in the National Guard for over 25 years which became related to his professional achievements. Neighbors from back in the day, Eleanor and Bob knew each other’s families; and on May 2, 1959, Bob wed the love of his life, the former Eleanor M. Bendino. Their union was considered a blessing by both sides, as the pair had common values. Bob and Eleanor were a truly humble couple who lived a happy life throughout their 63 years together. Bob’s career began with a position in Maintenance; from there, he advanced to become the Superintendent of the NY National Guard Parkway East Army Armory, which grew to be like his second home. He took pride in his work landscaping the Armory and he was a supervisor who had earned the respect of his coworkers. Bob dedicated an amazing amount of time to his work, his calling, and his efforts of which he was often credited for his generosity for the community events that took place there. Bob retired from this position on August 29, 1990. Because the years in which Bob had been raised saw so many limits to opportunity, he couldn’t have imagined accomplishing so much. This inspired him to go back to school and obtain his GED, with the assistance of those people who stood by his side. Born of the greatest generation, Bob journeyed well through his life—he knew what he had to do to overcome any obstacle... and he just did it. He was known to make things happen, even impossible things! In particular, Bob’s hallmark was his sense of humor. So many great times were had by all who loved him, for, as a host and a cook, he ensured that every get-together was filled with laughs and good food. For Bob, holidays were often celebrated as multifamily events where all were welcome! Bob and Eleanor loved to travel as a couple, especially to some of his favorite destinations like Caracas, Italy, as well as his yearly trips to Shades of Green Resort at Walt Disney World. Bob also enjoyed his collections; in particular, his HD and Lionel trains that were set up in the basement, complete with a village scenery. Additionally, he appreciated antique cars and was the proud owner of an antique army truck. After his retirement, he would take time to sit and gaze admiringly on the Armory, which he could see from the front of his home—which gave Bob a great sense of self-worth. He was recently awarded a certificate of 50-year membership with the American Legion Ft. Schuyler Post #1290. He was a member of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, and at one time served as co-chair and additionally an active participant of the annual church bazaar. It was a given that if called upon, he was available for any task that the parish might ask of him. Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Eleanor; and his son, Robert C. “Bobby” Leone. He lives in the hearts of his sisters, Rose Mattia and her late husband Edward Mattia, and Anna Mezzanini and her late husband Michael Mezzanini, Jr. Bob is survived by his sister-in-law, Tina Leone. He was predeceased by his siblings and their spouses, Frank, Sr. and Mary Leone, John and Ann Leone, Anthony “Tony” Leone, Michael and Elsie Leone, and Carmelina and Francis Ziobro, Sr. Bob leaves behind multiple nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins, including Lucien Leone. He will be fondly remembered by his in-laws, Betty Bendino, Alice Bendino, and Donna Bendino. Bob was blessed with many wonderful friends during his life, with special mention of the late, Bucky Bianco, and Rick Cirasuolo. He was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Frank and Anna (Contento) Bendino; his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Nicholas Bendino, Marie Bendino, and Clara and Angelo Papa, Sr; his nephews, Francis A. Leone, and Hon. Louis F. Papa; and his great-nephew, Daniel Ziobro, Jr. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Eleanor’s nephew, Angelo Papa, who has been a great support and uplifting presence. Additional gratitude is extended to Bob’s numerous physicians, the staffs of MVHS at the St. Luke’s and St. Elizabeth’s campuses, the rehab department at Masonic Care Community and the St. Luke’s Home. The last phase of his journey was aided by the compassion and personal touches of the caregivers of the Abraham House in Utica, as well as to Fr. Jim Cesta and Fr. Joe Salerno for their prayers. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Bob’s Memorial Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will be held on Saturday, June 18, 2022, at 12:00 p.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay St., where military honors will be conferred. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of the Mass.

Mr. Robert R. "Bob" Leone

July 7, 1932 - June 12, 2022