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Daniel LESLIE Obituary

LESLIE - Daniel Patrick January 28, 2016, loving son of Donald P. and Ann (nee O'Connor) Leslie; loving brother of Edward "Ned," Mary and Julia Leslie; loving grandson of Robert (Sue) O'Connor, Donald R. and Marilyn Leslie and the late Deborah Gleason O'Connor; survived by loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Family and friends may call Thursday 4-8 and Friday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the DIETRICH FUNERAL HOME INC., 2480 Kensington Ave., Amherst. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday at 10 AM at St. Joseph University Church, 3269 Main St., Buffalo. Please assemble at church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Daniel P. Leslie Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 4135, Kenmore, NY 14217. Arrangements by the REGER FUNERAL HOME INC.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Buffalo News from Feb. 3 to Feb. 5, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Daniel LESLIE

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April 27, 2025

Even though we only went to school together for a few years, I still think about you a lot, Danny. I feel so grateful that I got to know you.

Magdeline Vasatka

March 6, 2025

Thinking about you. Miss you Danny

DIANE BRENNAN

January 28, 2020

Still missing you Danny...keeping you close in thoughts and prayers and your amazing family. Love ya kiddo!

Savannah Cramer

February 29, 2016

I was a patient at ECMC with Daniel in October. I just last night heard the news, and it still hasn't fully sunk in. He was just so full of life all the time, and really helped me a great deal. Once, he had everyone write on little slips of paper things that they love about the other kids. I still have the ones they wrote for me, and I still look at them when times are tough. He was such a caring person, and he helped me more than I thought possible. Apologies and condolences won't help, I know this, but my heart and prayers are with you in this hard time. The world isn't as bright and happy with him gone, he was truly so unique, and I wish I had known him outside of the hospital. I cannot imagine the grief you're going through, but my thoughts and prayers are with you.

February 22, 2016

I only just heard of Danny's passing.
I wanted to let you know that some of my fondest teaching memories at St. Joe's included Danny.
He was always on board with whatever quirky lesson plan I had prepared.His ideas were thoughtful, on-point, creative and sometimes witty. He came to school every day with a smile and kind words for staff and classmates alike. And I greatly appreciated his taste in music.
I know these words are inadequate but please know that there are many people in this world who are better for having known your son. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Heather Hunter

Peter & Jeanne Leising & Family

February 16, 2016

May a special memory bring a smile to your face, each and every day. May people reach out to you with a special Danny story, picture, or video that they possess. May all the prayers being said for your family and Danny bring you comfort.

February 9, 2016

Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this difficult time. We pray that you find peace within. God be with you all. Michael Matthews/Rich Marine Crew

Another S.T.A.G.E. Family

February 8, 2016

We are heartbroken for you.
Prayers and peace.

Erika French

February 8, 2016

I am a friend of Deb's I am so sorry for your loss. I understand too well the pain of losing a child.My heart breaks for your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers

Mary Jane and Tomas Waz

February 8, 2016

As a fellow CHS family,we hope our simple prayers and concern for Daniel and your family will provide your family with some comfort in the months to come.I know your son will forever be memorialized in the hearts and minds of all he touched on a daily basis (the smiles,wit,and I hear an easy going way of just sitting and reading).I know the Lord will keep Daniel's soul warm and protected ,as only he can now,so that one day soon you will casually feel the warmth of his smile swipe your shoulder every morning and you can fall asleep to Daniel's music every night.

February 8, 2016

Dear Don and Ann, We wish our words could somehow ease your sadness, but in our hearts, we know the most they can do is simply tell you how much we care.
Love Uncle Bill and Aunt Penny

rachel stack

February 7, 2016

All our prayers to you. David, Rachel and Dara Stack

Tom & Janice OConnor

February 7, 2016

We are so sorry for your loss. Reading all of the posts, there is no doubt that Daniel was loved by so many. Please know our prayers are with your family.

City Honors Student Class of '16

February 7, 2016

Dear Leslie Family,
I firstly want to say how deeply sorry I am for your loss, but I also wish to share with you how amazing your son truly is (as everyone already knows.) Danny helped me with so many struggles of my own, turning my days around with smiles and laughter, always there to listen and give a needed hug. I'm sitting here wearing one of his "Fat Vegan" band t-shirts we made together and working on a boxed puzzle he gave me while listening to his all time favorite Mr. Frank Zappa. I will continue to thank him everyday for everything he did for me. Our friendship meant more than he'll ever know. Thank You Danny.xo

tom shea

February 6, 2016

very beautiful person left us early sitting in heaven .. you will be missed

Mother of Nardin 2016 student

February 6, 2016

No words can describe the sadness I felt upon learning of your loss. I personally didn't know Danny but was witness to his talent in the school plays at Nardin and Canisius. May you find peace in his gifts and the memories you shared. God bless all of you.

February 6, 2016

May God provide your family with strength and faith. Our deepest sympathy. The Simonians (A fellow Canisius Family)

Rosemarie Wayne

February 5, 2016

Don & Ann, I have no words that comfort you at this difficult time. Just know we are here for you and your family and are praying to give you strength and comfort,

Kayla Lewandowski

February 5, 2016

I am so lucky to have known Danny for many years! He was always so nice and funny! I will never forget him! I'm here for the family if you need anything at all! I love you all very much!

Family of Nardin Student 2018

February 5, 2016

Prayers and deepest sympathy to your family during this difficult time. May God grant you and your beloved son peace.

Dux family (SJS)

February 5, 2016

I am so heart broken to hear about Daniel. He was such a sweet child. May God continue to walk this difficult road with you. We will pray for all of you.

Bonnie Shupp

February 5, 2016

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.

Canisius HighSchool Family Class of 2016

February 5, 2016

Our heartfelt condolences to the entire Leslie family at such a difficult time...may Daniel rest in peace...Be not afraid I go before you always...come follow me and I will give you rest. Our thoughts are with you.

Andrew Dombrowski

February 5, 2016

I am so sorry for your loss. The prayers of the Dombrowski Family are with you all.

Grace Di Virgilio

February 5, 2016

I am so very sorry for the loss of your beloved son, brother and grandson Danny. Please know that others care and grieve for your family and with you. His spirit lives on in those who knew and loved him. He rests in eternal peace.

February 5, 2016

Marilyn, the intentions of your family are offered in my prayers. Gods Peace be with you Connie Cuviello LOC

Jack Manheimer

February 5, 2016

May the Lord give you and your family strength and know that your son is with Him now and forever.

Dalton Weir, Class of 2014

February 5, 2016

I still remember Daniel's terrific love for theatre during our time together in the school performances. I truly enjoyed knowing him. My condolences and may he rest in grace.

February 5, 2016

Dear Don and Family, My prayers and thoughts are with you all through this difficult time.
With deep sympathy,
Tina Martin (GG)

Zandra LaCour

February 5, 2016

When I think of Daniel the first words that come to mind are "he has such a sweet soul"! I will always remember him this way! I am so sorry for your loss, and my thoughts and prayers will always be with you!

Patrick Ferrino & Family

February 5, 2016

Dear Leslie Family,
We are so very saddened to learn of Danny's passing. May he rest in peace. Our prayers are with all of you.

Canisius Family Class of 2016, 2019

February 5, 2016

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this extremely difficult time. May Daniel rest in peace.

Patrick Ferrino & Family

February 5, 2016

Dear Leslie Family,
We are so very saddened to hear about the passing of Danny. May he rest in peace.

Camille-an old friend from Warren

February 5, 2016

There are no words adequate to express my depth of sympathy. There is much love surrounding your family from so many beautiful communities: Kenmore, Canisius, St Joes. Take in the love as you live through each day.
Ann, please know a piece of my heart broke when I heard.
Sending love and thoughts to your beautiful family.

Ava Lucinski

February 4, 2016

My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Leslie family.

Aniya Whitfield

February 4, 2016

Dear Family
I am so sorry for your loss. I went to St. Joseph's University with Danny. He was a really good friend. He was so kind, thoughtful and funny. He was always a big help to my sister who also went to school with Danny. She really enjoyed his company and help with understanding her school work. Danny was so intelligent and outgoing. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

~Aniya Whitfield

Kenzie Duffy

February 4, 2016

I am so sorry for your loss. Danny and I became really good friends during the Wizard of Oz play. I did not know him as long as other people but he became a big part of my life. He will always be with me.

Rachael Sparacino

February 4, 2016

I did not know Danny that well, but the few times that we were together he always made me smile. He had a kind heart and was a great person to be around. I'm so glad that I was able to get to spend time with him during musical practices.

February 4, 2016

Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to your family and your son Daniel.
A fellow 2016 CHS family

Rebecca Reeder

February 4, 2016

I did not know Daniel, but the girls in our musical, "The Wizard of Oz" enjoyed and liked him. He was a special member of the cast. You are in the thoughts and prayers of the Nardin community.

Mary Genco

February 4, 2016

Sorry for your loss. Rose is sending hugs to Julia. Love and prayers for all of you at this difficult time.

Helen McKeough

February 4, 2016

Dearest Ann, Don and all of Danny's family, I am so very sorry for your heartbreaking, unimaginable loss. Words fail me. Please know that you are, and will remain in my thoughts and prayers. Fondly, Helen

Tim, Mona and Alec

February 4, 2016

Please know there are so many people thinking of you. We miss you all and send our deepest condolences.

Janeen Duffy

February 4, 2016

Our families have not met but we are so sorry for your loss. Danny became friends with our daughter during the Wizard of Oz play and their friendship meant a lot. We are thankful for the time she got to share with him. Please accept our deepest sympathies and prayers.

The Duffy Family, Nardin High School

mary giles

February 4, 2016

To the Leslie family, Bill and I were saddened to hear of your loss. I only met Dan as an infant when I came with his grandmother to meet him as a newborn. I feel like I knew him by stories form Deb, going to his sporting events and relating funny comments . May God Bless you as you heal from your loss.
love , Mary Giles

The Jones Family

February 4, 2016

Dear Leslie family,
I am so heart broken for your loss. Danny was such an amazing kid and I will forever hold on to the memories of him, and our SJS days. We send our love and our prayers to your family.

kate neaverth

February 4, 2016

I am so very sorry for your loss. It's unfathomable. My thoughts are with you all.

Jessie Dee

February 4, 2016

Danny and I played a show together last summer and I will always cherish those wonderful memories of him. He was a brilliant musician and an endlessly sweet and compassionate person. He brought light with him wherever he went.

February 4, 2016

Please know you are all in our prayers. May Daniel rest in peace.

The staff at Delaware/Kenmore Pediatrics

Mary LaNasa

February 4, 2016

We are very sorry for your loss . Although my son did not know Daniel well , this has been a great loss to the Canisius family . Thoughts and prayers are with all the family and friends . Rest in peace Daniel

Trina Heywood

February 4, 2016

My most deepest and heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of this young man. I did not know him but i am a mother of 3 sons and my heart breaks for you. May your heart heal one day.

Matthew Igoe

February 4, 2016

Danny was in my group at HAP, and I enjoyed watching his performance in the Nardin play. I'm very sorry for your loss--he will be greatly missed.

Darlene Witkowski

February 4, 2016

Marilyn, I love you. We love our boys. I will always be there.
Darlene

Nichols Family 2016

February 4, 2016

Such a heartbreaking loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Fellow classmate Class of 2016

February 4, 2016

The only thing that comes to mind is a loss of words for this amazing young man. Through the numerous classes and few extra curricular activities I was able to share with Dan I learned what an amazing young man he was. Dan made me feel welcome always. Constantly willing to welcome me into a conversation or greeting me in the morning with a hello. The memories I hold of Danny will never fade. I love you Danny.

LoVallo

February 4, 2016

We have had the honor of knowing this wonderful family from grade school onward. I cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. Daniel was a wonderful young man. Our thought and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Know that you have the communities of St. Joe's and Canisius supporting you.
God Bless and deepest symphathies

Amanda Cox

February 4, 2016

I never got the chance to know Danny as well as I'd have liked to. But the few times we spoke, he showed me nothing but kindness. I am truly heartbroken. He will be greatly missed. I believe everyone has an impact on my life, no matter how small, and I am thankful that God put Danny into my life. Rest peacefully, Danny.

family of a 2015 Canisius grad

February 3, 2016

Our hearts grieve for you and our prayers are with you. May Jesus hold you close right now. Peace, Daniel.

February 3, 2016

Danny made a huge impact on my life. He will forever be in my heart. I'm so thankful I got the chance to be friends with him, and get to know his amazing personality.

Sr. Genevieve Efthemis

February 3, 2016

My dear Leslie Family,
Know that each of you are in my deepest prayers. God is with you always, even now during this heart breaking time for your family. I will never forget the many times I was blessed to be with your family. I will pray for you all.

The Oswald Family

February 3, 2016

Sending our most heartfelt condolences to the Leslie family, so sorry for the loss of your precious child and brother.

Canisius Student

February 3, 2016

I never had the privelage of meeting your son, but he will hold a special place in all of our hearts. I give you my deepest condolences and I'm very sorry for your loss.

February 3, 2016

I am so incredibly sorry for your loss

The Lee Family

February 3, 2016

There are no words on earth, just prayers to heaven that Danny with find peace and your family will also. From a St. Joseph University School and Canisius family.

Angie Garris (SJS Class of 2011)

February 3, 2016

Dear Leslie Family,
my prayers are for your family. Danny, you changed my life... My deepest condolences.

Murray & Mary Elizabeth Covello

February 3, 2016

As parents, we weep with you over this inconceivable loss, and take solace knowing he was always surrounded by love. May time bring you peace and fill your hearts with wonderful memories with which he graced your lives.

Mayan Karpie-Jones

February 3, 2016

Dear Leslie Family,
Words can only do so much. I am saddened to hear about the passing of Daniel. My thoughts and prayers are forever with you. I am sending love to comfort you during this time. My deepest condolences to your family.

mother of a 2013 and 2016 Canisius Graduate

February 3, 2016

As a mother of 3 boys, my heart just breaks for the entire family and anyone who knew Daniel on a personal basis. Prayers and condolences to all. May Daniel rest in peace.....

2016 mother of a 2013 and 2016 Canisius Graduate

February 3, 2016

As a mother of 3 boys, my heart just breaks for the entire family and anyone who knew Daniel on a personal basis. Prayers and condolences to all. May Daniel rest in peace.....

A Buffalo Seminary Family (Class of 2019)

February 3, 2016

From a family you have not yet met, but one who grieves with you, please accept our deepest sympathies and prayers.

Matthew Mogensen

February 3, 2016

I am just shocked:( He was a high spirited kid in S.T.A.G.E, and I am proud to be a part of the cast with him. Rest in Peace, Danny. "There is one more angel in Heaven".

Kirsten Hoffman

February 3, 2016

I wanted to take this opportunity to offer my deepest condolences. Ann- as one mom to another, my heart is breaking for your loss. I still picture your kids as the happy, sweet, beautiful little ones I use to watch at KUMC Babysitting. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Paula Iacono

February 3, 2016

I did not know Daniel nor did my son, who is a Junior at CHS. Our prayers are with the Leslie family. May Daniel be at peace in the arms of Jesus.

Samuel Adams

February 3, 2016

Events don't change people. People change people, and you have left a footprint on my life.

February 3, 2016

May you feel God's loving presence surrounding you at this difficult time... Our deepest sympathies...Janet & Kevin O'Leary

Adam and Eric Wojcik, Canisius classes 2016 and 2015

February 3, 2016

Deepest condolences to the entire Leslie family.

Nancy Panzica

February 3, 2016

My deepest sympathy to you all. Rest in peace Daniel.

Pam Mogensen

February 3, 2016

Dear Leslie Family,
Our hearts are broken for you all. Wishing there were words of comfort we could offer. Please know how lucky we all feel that Danny was a part of the STAGE Family.
With love,
The Summer Theatre Arts Group Experience

Doug and Liz Benz

February 3, 2016

So incredibly saddened to learn of Daniel's passing. Daniel and your entire family are in our prayers. God bless the Leslie and O'Connor families.

Amy Rentz

February 3, 2016

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief - My sincerest condolences to the Leslie family

Mary Carroll

February 3, 2016

Oh I am so sorry for your loss. A piece of a parent's heart lost forever. May he rest with the saints in peace.

Diane Brennan

February 3, 2016

Your smile, your face, your questioning nature, the way you challenged and defied the "norm" or status quo, your easy going nature; I am glad to have been on the journey with you, though it was far too short. Love you Danny! Rest now with Jesus and our Blessed Mother. Be at peace with your heavenly Father.

Ann & Victor Morelli

February 3, 2016

Words seem inadequate. May memories of your precious Daniel and the love of family surround you and give you strength in the days ahead

Ann & Victor Morelli

February 3, 2016

Words seem inadequate. May memories of your precious Daniel and the love of family surround and give you strength at this difficult time.

A Fellow Canisius Class of 2016 Family

February 3, 2016

Our deepest condolences to the Leslie family and all who knew Dan. Such a tragic loss of such a young, promising life. Please know how much your son and brother was thought of by others and the impact he had, and will continue to have on all who knew him. Feel his love around you as you try to maneuver through this unbearable time. Our hearts break for all who had the privilege of knowing your son....thank you for sharing him with us! Be free Daniel, fly high! Much love and strength....

Stephanie Harper

February 3, 2016

I was so blessed to have met Danny for 4 years , always looking forward to seeing eachother in our summer musicals . My heart breaks so much right now . Such loving , caring , wonderful person . Will be missed each and everyday . Love you Danny . Dearest sympathy goes out to the family .

Monika Toney

February 3, 2016

Helen Keller once said "What we once enjoyed and deeply loved, we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.

May his memory live in your heart always.

Dave Hassett

February 3, 2016

My deepest sympathies to the entire Leslie family. May the memories of your son and his impact upon others comfort you during this difficult time. "At the blueness of the skies and in the warmth of the summer we remember."

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Funeral services provided by:

Dietrich Funeral Home - Amherst

2480 Kensington Avenue, Amherst, NY 14226

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