John Leonardi, 71, of Fairview died on Tuesday June 27, 2023 at UPMC Hamot hospital.
He was born on July 25, 1951 a son to the late Cecil and Carolyn (Jambliter) Leonardi.
John grew up in the Lawrence Park area, graduating from Iroquois High School in 1970, being a part of multiple athletic programs. He then enrolled in the Erie Business Center, earning an Associate’s Degree, later earning the designation of Certified Financial Planner. A reminiscent job of his youth was at Firch's Bakery. John began his professional career as an auditor. However, soon he found his calling as a self-employed financial planner, a path he pursued the majority of his life. He appreciated being able to tailor his working hours to accommodate personal commitments, as well as professional. John had a genuine willingness to engage with people from all walks of life. Always staying “busy”, John found numerous hobbies such as fitness, Toastmasters, softball, traveling, watching his Yankees, rooting for his favorite Republican candidates, but what John loved most of all was watching his five kids succeed. He loved to share the joy of their accomplishments. He was a wonderful father, always staying engaged in all of their activities through their lives.
John's deep-rooted love for his family and Italian heritage was a defining aspect of his life. In the heart of Pittsburgh, the local Marriott Hotel served as his preferred gym, a place where he not only pursued his own fitness goals but also quality time with his children. Baseball held a special place in John's heart, with a particular fondness for the New York Yankees. Even in his later years, John remained active on the field as a member of the Codgers, a team comprising of mostly retirees who shared his love for the sport. With his family, health, and beloved baseball intertwined as cornerstones of his identity, John exemplified the importance of cherished traditions and the pursuit of lifelong passions with an enduring spirit.
He will be greatly missed by his family which include his wife, Darlene (Licsko) Leonardi whom he married July 11, 1981; daughters, Andrea Johnson (Chad), Lauryn Leonardi (Kyle), Ashley Rzicznek (Ben); sons, Christopher Leonardi (Lara) and Jared Leonardi (Maria); grandchildren, Brantley, Wyatt, Emma, John, Kylan, Adelina, Vienna, and Ethan; sister, Linda Leonardi as well as several nieces and nephews
To send condolences, visit edderfuneralhome.com
Friends may call on Sunday July 2, 2023 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Edder Funeral Home Inc. 309 Main St. E. Girard, a Funeral Service will be held there the following day, Monday at 10:00 AM. Burial will take place at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.
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