K 195: Mourning the death of Leonard F. Porcaro, distinguished citizen and dedicated member of his community

 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.