Obituary of Joseph George Leonardis

Joseph George Leonardis, age 75, passed away at his home in Howell, NJ surrounded by his family. He was born in Newark, NJ on May 25, 1947. Joseph was the son of Frank and Catherine Leonardis, and the brother of Frank and Gary, all of whom preceded him in death. As a Military Veteran, Joseph served his country in the Vietnam War where he was highly decorated. After his military career ended, Joseph moved back to New Jersey where he built his life, started his career, and graduated from William Patterson University. Joseph’s service did not end in Vietnam, when he returned to the United States, he took the selfless and courageous leap into serving his community as a Newark Police Officer. As a Police Officer, Joseph was also highly decorated, and retired as a Police Lieutenant. Joseph’s greatest joy was serving his family, which he leaves behind. Joseph was a husband for over 52 years to Marion Leonardis, and a father to his children and their spouses, Danielle and Luis Ballesteros, and Todd and Amy Leonardis. Joseph leaves behind two loving and adoring Grandsons, Nicholas Ballesteros and his namesake, Joseph Leonardis. There will be a celebration of life for friends and family on Saturday, October 29th at Ocean County Cremation Service located at 1252 Rt 37 W. Toms River, NJ 08755 at 11:00am to 12:00pm with a repast luncheon following the memorial. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Autism Speaks Or Please consider sending a gift to ‘Friends of Cyrus II’ which will be used to provide activities and supplies to the Millstone Adult Day Habilitation. Gifts can be sent to: 15 Corporate Place South, Suite 333, Piscataway, NJ 08854