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Morin Funeral Home - Leicester

1131 Main Street

Leicester, Massachusetts

Leonard Gabrila Obituary

Leonard S. "Lenny" Gabrila, 65, of Pine St., died suddenly, Saturday, June 18, 2011 at UMASS Memorial Medical Center in Worcester surrounded by his loving family.

He leaves his wife, Mary M. (Polissack) Gabrila, they would have celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in September. Not only man and wife, but the two were true companions and best friends. Along with his wife. He leaves two daughters, Amy M. Gabrila of E. Windsor, CT and Emily L. Arguin of Leicester; two brothers, Michael Gabrila and Joseph Gabrila and his wife Nancy, his mother in law, Margaret Polissack all of Worcester; several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by a brother Richard "Skipper" Gabrila and an infant son Steven Gabrila who greeted him in the "Gates of Heaven" with open arms.

Lenny was a spectacular father who was extremely involved with all of his children's activities. He was also their #1 fan!

Born in Worcester, he was the son of Leonardi and Hope (Capen) Gabrila, and later graduated from North High School in Worcester, he then attended Peru State College, Peru, Neb.

Lenny worked as a part time Campus Police Officer at the College of the Holy Cross for the past five years and also as a Safety Patrol Officer for the Advanced Science and Math Academy in Marlboro. He also worked for many years at Washington Heights in Worcester, and previously was Manager of the State Dept. of Industrial Accidents in Worcester and Lawrence. He later was a Campus Police Officer at Worcester State Hospital. He was one of the oldest graduates ever from the Special State Police Academy in New Braintree.

Lenny was first elected to the Leicester Planning Board as a young man and later served several years on the Board of Selectman as well as working on numerous Town projects. He was a current Leicester Water District Commissioner, and Registrar of Voters.

Lenny was a caring man who loved to spend time with people of all ages, especially seniors and children and was known for his love of animals. He touched many lives during his time here on earth. He lived life to the fullest, always on the go, making the most of every minute of his life. His "special friends" (cats) Archer, Sunshine, Simon and Randy will always have a place for him in their hearts. Most of all, he will be missed by his canine companion and best friend Bubba.

The family would like to thank the incredible staff of the UMASS Memorial Neural Intensive Care Unit, especially Nancy, Bridget, Julia and Betsey, who were wonderfully caring and compassionate to Lenny and his family. The family would also like to thank their wonderful neighbors and other members of the community. He will be in the hearts of many co-workers, colleagues and friends.

The funeral for Lenny, will be held on Thursday, June 23 from the MORRISON-MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 1131 Main St., Leicester with a Mass at 10 a.m. in St. Pius X Church, 1153 Main St., Leicester. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, Leicester. Calling hours are Wednesday, June 22 from 4 to 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Brain Aneurysm Foundation, 269 Hanover St., Bldg. 3, Hanover, Ma. 02339 or donate on line to

www.bafound.org/donate

www.morin-morrison.com


Published by Worcester Telegram & Gazette from Jun. 19 to Jun. 21, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Leonard Gabrila

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122 Entries

HC WLAX

July 1, 2011

I was very upset to learn this sad news. We all loved Gramps on the HC women's lacrosse team. It would brighten up my day any time I saw Gramps around campus and he would ask how the season was going or tell us to "Score early and often!" He was such a friendly man with a huge heart, and he always made you feel like you were important when he talked to you. HC will not be the same without him - but he is bound to be in a lot of thoughts and prayers of everyone on the hill.

June 28, 2011

Gramps, had the pleasure of working with you at the holy cross basketball games.. Great guy, you will be missed next season..my prayers are with the family.

Dave Fields
Worc Ma

Susan McLaughlin

June 28, 2011

My thoughs and prayers go out to Lenny's family. He was a true gentleman and the kindest, most genuine man you could possibly meet. He will be missed by all whose lives' he had touched!!

Timothy Donahue

June 27, 2011

A man whose heart shown through his eyes and a handshake. I view respectful people 3 ways: their handshake, they look me in the eye, and they are kind to my twin brother. You were always a smiling face in a time of need for my brother Tommy and you were an amazing Samaritan! You light was bright and although dimmed at the moment will live in us and my family forever! P.S. Mike's Donuts will not be the same!! - Tim Donahue

"Gramps" joining in on the celebration in his St. Patty's gear, 2010

Whitney Moberg (recent HC graduate)

June 26, 2011

My deepest condolences go out to the Gabrila family. "Gramps" was well known
throughout the Holy Cross community for his friendly nature and positive spirit. He used to stop in while I was working in the bookstore to joke around, and would always leave us with a smile. Another of my favorite memories of Gramps was St. Patrick's Day 2010. It’s not the best quality, but this picture was taken on that day, as he made his way through the dining hall checking in on everyone. Although Gramps was only at HC for a few years, he really left a mark on the community- we all loved him. He was a truly wonderful man and will be dearly missed by many. Your family is in my prayers.

Geoff Cushner

June 25, 2011

to the entire gabrila family:
i know from you, mary, how much of a pain lenny was which only showed his greatness. i will always remember seeing him directing traffic outside a tornados game stopping for a few minutes to say hello. he is a true role model for how to be good to everyone. our thoughts and prayers go out to your family at this time. i know he wil always be in your hearts and with others also.

John Troy Sr.

June 24, 2011

Lenny touched so many peoples hearts. I had the pleasure of working for Lenny as a young man painting parking lots and other jobs. He always took time to help others and now will help so many others in Heaven.

.Debbie Slattery

June 23, 2011

Mary and Family, I am so saddened to hear of your sudden loss. I have known Lenny since our High School years.Although I have not lived in Leicester for the past ten years, Lenny was there for my Dad, when he was alive and helped him thru my Mom's passing...He was there for my brothers and I when we lost Dad,my brother Mark and my Mom. He was such a good man....so giving, so caring and always that smile... with all he did for others..... Please know that my heart and prayers are with you.

Deborah McNaulty

June 23, 2011

Emily,and Family, I'm so sorry for the loss of your dad. My thoughts are with you.

June 23, 2011

Mary, Amy, and Emily...its been a while, but we are very sorry to hear about Lenny.....Our deepest sympathies to your family.... Lisa n Anthony Grokaitis

Jack Murphy

June 23, 2011

Jack Murphy
Killarney, Kerry, Ireland


Amy, Emily and Mary, I am so sorry to hear about the sudden passing of Lenny, my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Jack Murphy.

Tom Kennedy

June 23, 2011

Exuberant. Comes to mind when i think of Lenny.I first met him when i was a young man and needed spending money. He put me to work... We painted the entire webster square plaza parking lot lines (zayre,s) in ONE night. Great Guy, It seemed more like a marathon than work. Whenever i needed lenny over the years, he was there to help or guide. Never judging. I am now 45 years old and Lenny,s passing will leave a huge hole in my heart. While i worked recently at emilys house it was 6pm on a hot monday night. As i climbed down my ladder there was Lennys smiling face holding a giant ice coffee for me. Lenny looked great, Lenny was in full uniform with shineing badges. I said lenny "you look great" "very official" he looked very proud right then. I am glad i noticed and said something and thought i would share that with you everyone. Lenny was a wonderful man that will be missed. Mary, Emily, amy, are in my thoughts and prayers."Happy Day"

Francine Gallati

June 23, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Elaine & Bob Leger

June 23, 2011

To Mary and family,
We were so saddened to hear about Lenny's passing. We only got to meet you both a short time ago down here in Bradenton, FL but in just those few trips, we already realized what a special couple you were - and what a special man Lenny was...friendly, willing to help neighbors he just met and a great sense of humor. We will miss having him as our neighbor.

Peter Castoldi

June 23, 2011

The passing of Lenny is truly sudden and tragic. He will be missed by both myself and others around our school. He was a great guy to talk to and always had a smile on his face. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Joy Corbin

June 23, 2011

To the Gabrila family,
I'm so sorry to hear of you loss, you are all in my thoughts and prayers.

bill constantino

June 23, 2011

I WORKED WITH LENNY AT THE DIA. HE WAS KIND, CARING, AND ENTHUSIATIC. jUST A REAL GREAT GUY. I AM THANKFUL TO KNOW HIM AND WORK FOR HIM. MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO LENNY AND HIS FAMILY.

HC Student Class of '10

June 22, 2011

"Gramps" was a comforting, friendly and beloved presence on campus throughout my four years at Holy Cross. Very early in my freshman year, when I was still pretty homesick, he saw me lingering alone outside the campus center and approached with a friendly smile, an introduction, and some words of advice. It was just what a lonely freshman needed to brighten her day, and I never forgot that encounter. My deepest sympathies and prayers are with the entire Gabrila family -- Lenny was a precious part of the Holy Cross family, and I know he will be very much missed.

Shreyas Warrier

June 22, 2011

I am truly sorry to hear of his passing. He always had a smile for every student in the morning and afternoon and he was such a caring person. Rest in Peace, Lenny.

Andrea Gilligan

June 22, 2011

I met Lenny 5 years ago when he married my Sister Wendy and my Brother in law John.He was the nicest,sweetest guy you ever met. He made me laugh plenty of times. He Always asked how I was feeling I am glad I got to meet him
he will be missed so many ways. May God be with you.

Charlette 1&2

June 22, 2011

Sorry for your loss Amy,Emily,and family.Our thoughts are with you through this very difficult and sad time.

Nancy Vessella

June 22, 2011

I worked with Lenny for many years at Washington Heights. He was a good friend to everyone that worked with him. Lenny was very caring and thoughtful with everyone. He will be missed by everyone that knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

June 22, 2011

Dear Gabrila Family:

I was deeply saddened to hear of Lenny's passing. He will be greatly missed. I am sure many would agree that our time with the Fuller Hamlets just would not have been the same with Lenny and his upbeat, caring attitude. I can still hear "early and often" now. You will be missed, Lenny.

With Sympathy, Colleen Cushing Towle

June 22, 2011

Lenny, You still owe me a Starbucks Coffee! This great man will be missed by everyone who ever met him...Linda, Rosewood

Penny Mills

June 22, 2011

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. I'll always remember Lenny's smile and wave to me everyday when I would pick up & drop off my son at AMSA. He will be missed by many.

L Nielsen

June 22, 2011

I will miss his smiling face every morning and afternoon at AMSA. He was a wonderful man.

Renee Preston

June 22, 2011

If WV weren't so far away, I would be there tonight to tell Mary, Amy and Emily how sorry I am for your loss. Although I only met Lenny once, I have wonderful memories of our evening together at Via.
While I am hundreds of miles away, my thoughts and love are there with you.

June 22, 2011

I was sorry to hear of Lenny's passing we were co-workers at the DIA for a short time but he was an enjoyable person to have meet. My Deepest Sympathy in your loss.

Diane Waldman

Eileen Bitter

June 22, 2011

Lenny was the best. He was a friend to everyone he met, and he had the ability to make them feel like they were special.
I will miss him.

Lenny at Mums

Sherry Hurley

June 22, 2011

Our deepest sympathy to Mary, Emily and Amy. Lenny was truly a wonderful man. always had a smile and a joke he will be sadly missed by many. This is a picture we recently took at mums he was enjoying a fresh chocolate chip cookie I had him pose for the picture then told him about the chocolate on his face. He laughed, we always had a good laugh.

June 21, 2011

Lenny was a great guy to have in your life! His abilty to make one laugh was always available, and his willingness to help others was something all of us admired. He welcomed everyone into his home whether the 2 legged or the 4 legged variety...sometimes I think he liked the 4 legged ones better. He will be missed, but always remembered. ~~~~Lori Nessa Sophie Candie Sadie and Abbie

June 21, 2011

My deepest sympathy go out to the Gabrila family. Lenny worked with my husband at Holy Cross Public Safety. From the first time I met "gramps" he was the warmest and nicest man a person could ever meet. He became a surrogate grampa to my two girls and he will be greatly missed! Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time.

Jen and Kevin Leonard

June 21, 2011

Throughout my time as a student at Holy Cross from 2006-2010, I knew Lenny as "Gramps," an appropriate nickname for the kind, gentle, and caring guardian he was to the entire student population. Whenever I ran into Lenny on campus, his kind words and jokes would always bring a smile to my face and brighten my day. He was loved and cherished by the entire Holy Cross community, and will be truly missed. My deepest sympathies to his family in this most difficult time.

-Holy Cross Student, ‘10

Kyse Banat

June 21, 2011

Lenny was a great guy. Always nice to myself and every kid at W.H. He will be missed. My sympathy to your family.

Joan Cutroni

June 21, 2011

My deepest sympathy to your family.

Don Chung

June 21, 2011

To Mary, Emily and Amy
I always enjoyed working together with Lenny at Washington Heights. There were times when holidays were approaching and the outlook looked dismal for the residents and Lenny knew how to pull the right strings and make that call and have that party for the children. He knew the number for Santa Claus and invited him to meet the children. He knew how to get the pony for pony rides ,and the hay rides at Halloween.and supplied turkeys at thanksgiving and put gifts under the Christmas tree. Always will be remembered as the man with the big heart. Will be deeply missed by me

Ann Hunt

June 21, 2011

Mary, Amy and Emily,
I and so deeply sorry for the loss of your beloved husband and dad. Lenny was someone special and a joy when he would come into Mike's......constantly! I'll miss his needling me about being an Irish Democrat. My prayers are with you all as well as Lenny. May God keep him close.

Ann Richards

June 21, 2011

To the Gabrila Family, Mary "the Pollock" Amy and Emily: I had the pleasure and good fortune to have worked with Lenny at AMSA. He taught me about really loving what you do and what the word "service" really means. I, as well as the whole school, will miss him dearly. His good nature always brightened my day when I was stressed. I now use a new phrase: "No is not an answer!" I will miss his morning greetings after traffic duty. My heartfelt condolences to to all of you on your loss.

June 21, 2011

I had the honor of wrking with "gramps" at the holy cross basketball games.. A true standup guy.. my sympathy to the family..rip

Mike Shea

June 21, 2011

My Thoughts and Prayers are with you all during this most difficult time....rest assured "Lenny" is with some pretty "Special" company from Pine Street and beyond........GodSpeed Lenny

June 21, 2011

May Lenny's soul rest in peace.
GOD BLESS YOU
Sonny & Diana Roth
Thorndike, Mass.

June 21, 2011

Our family has lost a great piece of it by the loss of Lenny (Butchy). I am so sorry for that loss and hope that you can look to your faith, family, and friends to comfort you at this time. He will be missed by many.
Dierdra (Kinnery) LaMarche

Wendy Pike

June 21, 2011

Mary,Emily and Amy, So sorry for your loss. Lenny will be greatly missed. He touched the hearts and souls of so many in his life here. He will never be forgotten.

Vito,Nick and Lynne Petrone

June 21, 2011

Officer Lenny will be sorely missed when AMSA reopens in the fall. He always greeted us will a smile, a wave or a salute. My son named him officer mittens because of the neon green mittens he would wear while directing traffic at AMSA. Thanks for everything. Peace!

Laura Whitney

June 21, 2011

Mary, Amy, and Emily:

I haven't stopped thinking about all of you since I first heard about what happened. I've known all of you my whole life and have so many amazing memories of Lenny that I'll never forget, especially from the days of sitting out on the front porch at Gram & Gramp's. I already know Lenny & Gramp are up to no good up there and that's just the way we'd want it! My thoughts and prayers are with you all...Lenny will truly be missed!

Dennis Fryc

June 21, 2011

I worked in the bookstore at Holy Cross for 5 years and Lenny would come in all the time to just to say Hi and tell some jokes what a great guy he was...He will be greatly missed to the College of Holy Cross and it's students and employee's. Im so sorry for you your loss...R.I.P. Lenny!!!

Melissa O'connor (Koontz)

June 21, 2011

To the entire Gabrila famile - My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you during this time. I have many fond memories of Mr. Gabrila from high school days and all of them make me smile. His personality was bigger them life and he always made me feel like part of the family. He will be missed.

Ed Poirier

June 21, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Lenny's family. He was the People's Advocate and a friend to all who knew him. May he be at peace.

June 21, 2011

My deepest sympathies to his family. "Gramps" will always be remembered for his friendly ways and kind words to all students at HC. He was beloved by the entire Holy Cross community and will be greatly missed.
~HC '09 graduate

Earl

June 21, 2011

Lenny’s smile and kind words will be missed by everyone on the Holy Cross campus. He always joked about buying my car every time we would meet. We spoke last month about how much he was looking forward to using his retirement home in FL, so his sudden death is really a shock. My deepest sympathies to the family.

June 21, 2011

To the Gabrila family,

I am a 2nd cousin to Lenny and although our family did not see him very often, I don't think I ever remember him not happy and smiling. You are in my prayers at such a difficult time. Lenny will always be remembered as a kind and loving man. God bless.

Marna (Kinnery)Krasnecky

June 21, 2011

We would like to extend our condolences, our thoughts and prays are with you. Alex & Lee-Marie Fadavi

Rosewood Management

June 21, 2011

To the Gabrila Family,
Those of us at Rosewood Management in Marlborough will miss Lenny's always smiling face and positive attitude. He was bigger than life. Such a happy man..blessed with a beautiful family. A phone call from Lenny was welcomed sunshine. He was not about himself...he was about others. He left an indelible mark on all that were lucky to have know him. Our condolences to his family.

Sarah

June 21, 2011

Mrs. Gabrila, Amy & Emily, our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Mr. Gabrila will be missed - he always had a wave as we drove down Pine St. and he would truly love it when anyone would stop by to simply chat. You will be in our thoughts and prayers, and Lenny will not be forgotten.
Truly, the Tritone family

linda fedor

June 21, 2011

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Lynne Lengel

June 21, 2011

I am very sad to hear about "Gramp's" passing. He used to come over to Stein and visit us in Modern Languages just to say hi when he was working. I know he will be missed by many. I extend my condolences to his family.

Michelle & Tom Cote

June 21, 2011

Mary & Family,

Tom and I are so sorry for your loss. Lenny was the first person Tom and I met when we moved on to Pine Street four years ago, and he immediately became one of our closest friends. Lenny will truly be missed by all. He always made everyone feel special and loved. He was one of the happiest, most generous and caring individuals Tom and I have ever known. Pine Street will not be the same without him.

We hope that you can find comfort in all of the happy stories and memories you have of Lenny.

Rest in peace Lenny. Tom and I will never forget you.

June 21, 2011

Gramps was a staple of the Holy Cross community. He could always be counted on for a friendly smile and a kind word; he will be deeply missed on the HC campus. My deepest condolences to his family.

Diane Cutroni Mohieldin

June 21, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. Lenny did work for us here at Harr. Every time I saw him he asked about my family and shared "Italian" jokes, and never failed to test my Italianess by asking what "we" called tomato sauce. I will miss his energy and enthusiasm for his work and for his family, whom he was extremely proud of and talked about often.

Mary

June 21, 2011

As a graduate of Holy Cross, it was an honor to have known Lenny. His advice and generosity, his love of life and his kindness to strangers have showed me what it is to lead a happy life. My deepest sympathies to his family.

donna kenneally

June 21, 2011

To the entire Gabrila Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Lenny was an awesome person. His love for people and animal was alwas present and he will be missed by so many. and remember as he looks down on his family and friends he is saying 'Happy Days' R.I.P. Lenny
Donna, Justin and Zachary Kenneally

Heather Duquette

June 21, 2011

Dear Mary, Amy, and Emily, I'm sorry for your loss. Lenny always made me feel welcomed and at home when I was over the your house. He would always kindly take the time to talk to you and see how you were doing, even brightening your day a little more. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Damon

June 21, 2011

The AMSA community will miss him greatly. So sorry for the family's loss.

Chief Kevin Foley

June 21, 2011

Our deepest sympthy to the Gabrila Family
Lenny will be missed by all. He made us very proud when he graduated from the SSPO Academy wearing our uniform. He was loved by the clients and the staff and never had a bad word about anybody. RIP Lenny although it is far to soon you have earned it.
D.M.H. Police
Worcester State Hospital

Rich Allen

June 21, 2011

Emily,and Family so sorry for the loss of your Dad.May you be blessed with wonderful memories.

Michelle

June 21, 2011

As a recent graduate of Holy Cross, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family. "Gramps" will be missed dearly on the Holy Cross campus.

Mary Lou Zamarro (Elliott)

June 21, 2011

Mary, Amy and Emily -

Shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Lenny.
I knew him for many years having lived in Leicester and had just talked to him two weeks ago when he was at WTHS to say "Hello".(actually he was checking out the baked goods in the cafe)
I remember once we had a conversation about flowers, and many months later, he appeared at school with a bouquet of irises.
Jenna and Emily were classmates and he never forgot to ask how she was doing.
Lenny loved life but the three of you were his greatest joy. I always got an update on all of you whenever I saw him.
Lenny was a great person. He will be missed! Remember the good times and all the happiness he brought to everyone with his wit and smile.

Neil & Judy Curtis

June 21, 2011

Mary and family - we were deeply saddened to read of Lenny's passing. Please accept our heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. I didn't think this would be the way Lenny slowed down!

June 21, 2011

Dear Mary, Amy and Emily,
We're so sorry to hear of Lenny's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Robin & Bob Lauder

Claudia Cianci

June 21, 2011

To Lenny's family and many friends,
I was stunned to hear the tragic news of Lenny's passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences on your loss. I worked with Lenny at the Charter School for some time. Not one day went by when he didn't smile and bring happiness to all of us there. The kids loved him, the staff loved him, and the parents loved him. He was ALWAYS smiling and bringing joy to all of those around him. His enthusiasm for life and positive attitude was amazing! He will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of having known him! My prayers are with you all at this time.

Mark Dombrowski

June 21, 2011

Lenny was a wonderful man who, along with another gentleman, took a young man of 18 and showed him what the wonderful town of Leicester was all about. He got this young man involved in his campaign for selectman and helped him to get on the Democratic Town Committee. We was a great man to advocate for you and an even better man to have as a friend! I was lucky enough to have him for both. Part of who I am today, some 23 years later, is due to him. It has been many years since I have seen him and probably many more before I see him again but I want to take this opportunity to say Thank-you Lenny! I am a better man for having known you!
My condolences to the Gabrila family during your time of sorrow.

Jessica Ripp

June 20, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with the Gabrila family. During my time at Holy Cross, Lenny was affectionately known as "Gramps". I remember him coming on buses before our sports teams departed for big races to wish us luck. He had a kind heart and we loved him for it. He will certainly be missed.

Jessica Ripp, HC '10

Janet LaRonde

June 20, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during these difficult times. God took 2 very special people on June 18th your Dad and my son Willie. Now they are watching over us.

MICHAEL NOVIA

June 20, 2011

I AM REAL SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT LENNY'S PASSING. I KNEW LENNY FROM ORCHARD HILL OXFORD HE WAS A GOOD AND KIND PERSON AND I WILL MISS HIM A LOT REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND

Melissa Kneeland

June 20, 2011

I was an officer at Holy Cross with Gramps a couple years ago.....I cant believe he's gone..He was loved by so many and will always be in MY heart and the hearts of many others

sara seaver

June 20, 2011

Every time I saw Lenny, since I was 5 years old or so, he would have two words for me, "happy day"... He still would say it to me when he came to the bank.. Lenny, you were a Great man and will ne missed by many. Even on my worst days, I think of "happy day" and smile.. R.I.P. and Happy Day...

June 20, 2011

Lenny was a special person liked by many. He had a kind heart , bright smile and never forgot old friends. He will be missed. Mary, Amy & Emily please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. Bob & Linda Hebert

Lisa Germain

June 20, 2011

Dear Mary, Amy, Emily and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this extremely difficult time. Lenny was so wonderful to my Mom and my family. Everytime he saw me, he reminded me that he shared my Mom's Birthday. Now they are together with God and watching over us all.
Hold strong to the wonderful memories and his contagious smile.
He will be greatly missed!

Debbie Southwick

June 20, 2011

Lenny I worked with you at Washington Heights for many yrs,You were a great co-worker,and you were a dear friend to Ray and I. I saw you last year Len and you were Lenny,sweet kind and always giving.Lenny Washington Heights will miss you,you were always there for the residents and children,and I will never forget going to your academy graduation,we were so proud of you.My thoughts and prayers go out to Lenny's family,He Will Be Missed....

June 20, 2011

I knew Mr. Gabrila as Gramps. Gramps truly made the Holy Cross community a better place. I will always remember him telling the marching band before a football game to be as loud as possible so he could hear us from the Hart Center. To Mrs. Gabrila and your family, I would like to extend my condolences. Gramps was a wonderful man and he will be missed by the Holy Cross community

Laura Passamonti

June 20, 2011

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Holy Cross will not be the same without his smiling face and cheery hello. May your memories bring you peace during this time.

Cheryl & Richard Shiraka

June 20, 2011

Mary, Amy and Emily
Lenny was always such a giving person. He was especially kind to my grandparents and to my son Tim. I am so sorry for your loss. I know that he will be greatly missed by the many people whose lives he touched. We hope that you will find some comfort in the memories of a very special man. Rest in peace, my friend.

Michelle Savoie

June 20, 2011

I was very sad to hear about Lenny's passing. He was the first one to take me and my daughter under his wing when we moved to Washington Heights. He was very excited when we bought a house in Leicester. It's hard to believe he was just over here a couple of weeks ago visiting me and my husband. He will be greatly missed!!

Anthony&Kelly Petrone

June 20, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Judy Keller

June 20, 2011

I am very saddened to learn of Lennys'passing. I remember him as always being nice to all at Washington Heights and always having a smile on his face followed by a cheery "hello". My deepest condolences to your family.

Judie McMahon

June 20, 2011

To the Gabrila family,
I really didn't know Lenny, very much. My memory of him, was "we were the first couple he married" May he rest in peace. Judie McMahon

Jim Hayes

June 20, 2011

My condolances to the family. I worked with Lenny for a short time at UMass Memorial Hospital, Memorial Campus where Lenny served as dispatcher to the UMass Memorial Campus Police. Lenny became a great friend. He will surely be missed.

Nancy Kennedy Mello

June 20, 2011

I was very sad to hear about Lenny. He was someone that really lived life to the fullest. He often checked in on me and my brothers and sisters after our Dad passed away. I wanted you to know that Lenny touched many, many lives and he will be greatly missed. Your family is in my thoughts.

June 20, 2011

June 20, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Gabrila family at this time of their sad loss. Lenny was a good man and a good friend.

Joanne & Earl Bernier

John Fournier

June 20, 2011

Lenny was the best partner to work with and a true friend. Lenny married my wife Wendy and I five years ago. He will be truly missed.

Graduate Holy Cross

June 20, 2011

I knew Mr. Gabrila as "Gramps", as did the rest of the student body. When I say everyone loved him, I really do mean EVERYONE. He was a staple in the Holy Cross community and always will be. He is in my thoughts and prayers.

G-d Bless

2011 Graduate

June 20, 2011

To Mary Gabrila and Family,
I believed I worked with you Mary(or was it your husband) at the Mass. Dept. of Public Welfare and that is how I know you and your husband Lenny. I am so sorry to hear about Lenny's passing and I sent my deepest sympathies to you and your family. May God comfort you all at this most difficult time. Lenny, may you rest in peace.
Rose(Campanale)Canty

Doreen C. Kupstas

June 20, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. Lenny was always there for everyone. A very friendly and giving man. I remember when my dad gave him all the flat stones to build a walk and stone wall when you lived on Broad St. My prayers are with you and the family.

Myrna Rivera

June 20, 2011

With deepest sympathy to Lenny's family. Lenny was our security officer back in the 80's & was well liked by the kids~ Heart of GOLD...we'll miss you Lenny~RIP.

Ella Polinski

June 20, 2011

Mary, My deepest sympathy to you and your family. Lenny will be missed by all who knew him. I'm very sorry for your loss.

Kellie Gervais (Quinn)

June 20, 2011

Emily, Mary, Amy, and family,
I am disheartened to hear of Lenny's passing. As a friend to Emily, I remember Lenny always welcoming all of Em's friends, joking with us, and of course those nicknames- "Kellarunafish, you owe me a dollar," was his infamous saying I remember the most when I was at your home or vacationing with the family. He was always a kind, big-hearted, and funny man- and so proud of his family and daughters. He will be missed greatly, as he has impacted some many people in his life..You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Jen Gosselin

June 20, 2011

Lenny will be missed! We always enjoyed talking to him on Sunday mornings at Mike's....

Deepest Sympathy,
Jen & Jeff Gosselin

Craig Ackerman

June 20, 2011

Mary, Amy, Emily & Holly.,

My Deepest Sympathy To You And Your Family Members At This Time Of Loss. I Hope You Will Find Comfort With The Memories You Have, Along With The Strength Of Knowing That Lenny Gave Of Himself To So Many In Our Great Community Of Leicester, Massachusetts. We Will All Miss Him.

RIP Lenny

Melonie Alkhatib

June 20, 2011

Mrs. Gabrila and family...Things will not be the same at Holy Cross without Lenny's sense of humor and kind heart. I pray that memories of him keep you comforted through your loss. The thought of his smile will keep me smiling the same. RIP Gramps

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