Leonard R. Fox, Sr

Leonard Roy Fox, Sr. age 90, of Glenmont, NY returned to his heavenly home on Monday, February 21, 2022. Born April 11, 1931 to William C. and Anne E. (Bensinger) in Albany NY.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Maria A. (Frangella); his daughters, Annmarie (Robert) Marsh and Lisa (Curt) Ricci; daughters in law, Jacqueline (Leonard Jr.) and Katherine Pattee (Kevin); grandchildren: Jason (Margaret) Fox, Jessica (Alex) Troiano, Jared Marsh, Evan (Maureen) Marsh, Meghan Fox, William Fox, Jonathan Marsh and Nicholas Ricci; great grandchildren: Anthony, Laila, Tristan, Charlotte, Jude, Regan and Declan; brothers: William C. Fox, Jr., Thomas H. Fox; sisters: Marcia (Wayne) Spaulding and Linda Fox. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Leonard is predeceased by his sons Leonard Jr. and Kevin and his daughter in law Carol (Leonard Jr.) and his siblings John (Verna) Fox, Helen (James) Curry, and Mary Frances (Jack) Lansing.

Leonard grew up in the South End of Albany and worked in the family business, Foxes Live Bait. He graduated from Cathedral Academy High School. In 1951, during the Korean War, Leonard enlisted in the Navy, stationed in Virginia aboard the USS Aucilla. One year later, on a snowy January day in Coeymans, NY, Leonard married his high school sweetheart. Upon his honorable discharge in 1955 with three of their four children, they returned to Albany, NY. Leonard initially worked as a sheet metal worker at Huyck Mills. He eventually worked at State Bank of Albany and was a primary contractor in the restoration of the historical Union Station which became the offices of Norstar Bankcorp. Leonard was honored for his contribution to this project. He was elected to political office as an Alderman for what was then known as the 2ND Ward in the South End during Mayor Erastus Corning II and Thomas Whalen III administrations. The working chapter of his life was completed as the Director of the Parking Authority in Albay, NY. Leonard "broke the alarm clock" permanently in 1992, saying goodbye to many years of dedicated service to public and private citizens; he earned his retirement.

Many memories were made at the family home on Putnam Street in Albany. During the holidays, Leonard and his wife transformed their home into a winter wonderland both inside and out with trains, villages, trees, lights and more that everyone enjoyed. The park like backyard was home to many picnics, graduation parties, and the famous Fourth of July celebration complete with food, fun, firing the canon, and ending with a firework display enjoyed by many neighbors as well as guests. Leonard could often be heard saying "I'll be right over" to family, friends and neighbors when help was needed. His Sunday morning breakfast club was popular with friends and family. His brother Bill could often be seen trimming the hedges and helping with the landscaping.

Inherited from his father, Leonard was an accomplished outdoorsman, from fishing to hunting and outdoor survival skills. His generosity from the year-round fishing and hunting trips could be found in many freezers. His love of hunting developed a strong bond with his brother-in-law, son in law, nephews and grandsons. The camp on Saratoga Lake, owned by his brother in law and his wife, Ed and Anne Otto, became a place of relaxation and fishing with the family.

Leonard truly enjoyed traveling, especially the trips that put him behind the wheel. Leonard's sister Helen, his mom, and dearest wife often shared the role of co-pilot. For weeks leading up to their trips, he worked on the itinerary and route with map skills he acquired from his mother. Family vacations on Cape Cod, trips to Florida, the Carolinas and Europe were a few of the many destinations this traveling duo enjoyed.

After his retirement, Leonard moved to Bethlehem, NY and developed a health condition that impacted his mobility. Like the fighter he was, following many surgeries, his faith and positive attitude carried him through these difficult times. He eventually became confined to a wheelchair which led to his passion for woodworking and whittling. Treasured homemade gifts from this hobby are now a cherished remembrance of Leonard.

Leonard was a man of faith, praying for his family and others daily. His faith became more evident during his failing health, never complaining about the difficulties he endured.

The family wishes to extend gratitude to Dr. Ara Kayayan, who was a source of comfort and support to Leonard and his family; Dr. Douglas Hargrave, the late Dr. David Putnam and Dr. Ian Santoro.

Those wishing to remember Leonard may make a donation to his grandson Jude Troiano, c/o Mr. and Mrs. Alex Troiano, 68 Cherry Avenue, Delmar, NY 12054 or to Capital City Rescue Mission.

A Mass to celebrate Leonard's life will be held on Monday, February 28, at 11:00 am at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 35 Adams Place, Delmar, NY. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with his family Monday morning at church from 9:30 to 11:00 am.

To leave a special message for the family, please visit NewComerAlbany.com