Assembly Resolution No. 195

BY: M. of A. Santabarbara

MOURNING the death of Leonard F. Porcaro,
distinguished citizen and dedicated member of his
community

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Leonard F. Porcaro, of Schenectady, New York, died on
Saturday, August 31, 2024, at the age of 92; he exemplified outstanding
community service and dedicated his life to his family, friends, and
fellow New Yorkers; and

WHEREAS, On February 1, 1932, Leonard F. Porcaro was born to Leonard
and Mary (Durso) Porcaro in Albany, New York; raised in Albany, he
attended Schuyler High School; and

WHEREAS, On August 8, 1952, Leonard F. Porcaro entered the United
States Army in Albany, serving his country during the Korean War; he
studied Radio Communication in the 9th Infantry Division Radio School
and was assigned as a Radio Operator while stationed in Germany; and

WHEREAS, For his tour in Germany, Leonard F. Porcaro received the
Army of Occupation Medal; additionally, he received the National Defense
Service Medal and attained the rank of Corporal, released from the Army
on July 20, 1954; and

WHEREAS, Leonard F. Porcaro was employed by Keeler's Restaurant in
Albany, General Electric, and the United States Postal Service from
which he retired in 1992; on weekends, he learned French cooking while
working at Chez Rene Restaurant in Delmar; he loved to cook Italian
cuisine, collecting recipes and menus; and

WHEREAS, Leonard F. Porcaro was actively involved in his community
and with his fellow veterans; he served as Commander of American Legion
Post No. 1005 for more than 40 years, since its inception; he was also
Commander of the American Legion of Schenectady County; and

WHEREAS, For his commitment to service and sincere love for his
fellow veterans, Leonard F. Porcaro earned recognition at several
veteran events, including the honor of singing "The Star-Spangled
Banner" at the American Legion National Conventions and every local
Veteran and Memorial Day service; he attended every member's funeral to
show his respect and appreciation for their service; and

WHEREAS, Proud of his Italian heritage, Leonard F. Porcaro had a
deep love for Italian music and would lead the singing at family dinners
at home and at restaurants; he had many hobbies and interests, including
gardening, scuba diving, golfing, ice skating, softball, bowling,
deep-sea fishing, hunting, and cooking; he enjoyed camping, family
vacations, and the ocean and beach; and

WHEREAS, Leonard F. Porcaro is survived by his wife of 68 years,
Anita (Tooley) Porcaro; son, James Porcaro (Holli); daughters, Kathleen
Burke (Michael, Sr.) and Christine Porcaro; brother, John Porcaro, and
sister-in-law, Patricia Porcaro; eight grandchildren; seven
great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews; he was predeceased by
his daughter, Mary; brothers, Vincent Porcaro and Frank Porcaro
(Patricia); and sisters, Caroline Porcaro, Virginia McCarthy (Edward),
and Marie Padula (Louis); and

WHEREAS, Leonard F. Porcaro was a loyal friend and never met a
stranger, always willing to lend a helping hand; a man of strong
Christian faith, he lived a life of service to his family and his
country; finding joy in life's simple pleasures and sharing those with
everyone he met, he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and joy;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Leonard F. Porcaro and express its deepest
condolences to his family; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Leonard F. Porcaro.