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Paul Leka Obituary

LEKA Paul Theodore Leka, 68, entered into eternal peace on October 12 with his loving family at his side. He was devoted to the love and care of his wife Engjellushe and son Alexander. Paul was born in Bridgeport on February 20, 1943, the beloved son of the late Theodore and Dhimitra Leka. Paul's God-given talent and love of music, together with his characteristic strong will and determination, landed him a job at an early age working for Bobby Darin. At the age of 24 he had his first hit: "Green Tambourine," by the Lemon Pipers. He is credited for adding "one of the greatest chants in Rock and Roll history" to the song he co-authored: "Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye," by Steam, which has been translated around the world, played in TV shows, commercials, films, and sung at sporting events. Paul also produced and arranged music for a wide variety of artists including Harry Chapin (Cats in the Cradle), Peter Nero (Summer of '42), Paul Mariat, The Left Banke, The Peppermint Rainbow (Will You be Staying After Sunday), REO Speedwagon and many others. Paul was awarded many gold and platinum records, and has left a musical legacy to be proud of. Friends remember Paul for his "one of a kind good natured humor and kindness." He lived his life with an unbridled passion, which made him an unforgettable person to all who knew him. He treasured his family and also was generous toward his two churches. In addition to his parents, Paul was predeceased by his son Theodore and brother Michael. He is survived by his loving wife Engjellushe and their son Alexander; his son Derek and daughter Heather; his brother George and wife Geri; Michael's wife Lillian; his sister Evelyn Kreta and husband Archpriest John Kreta, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He will be greatly missed. "May His Memory Be Eternal!" Calling hours: Thursday, October 20 from 4-7pm, Prayer service at 7pm, at St. George Orthodox Church, 5490 Main Street, Trumbull, Ct. 06611. Funeral at the same church on Friday, October 21, at 10 am. Flowers may be sent to the church. Donations may be made either to St. George's or to All Saints of America Orthodox Church, P.O. Box 45, Salisbury, CT 06068. Arrangements are with the Kenny Funeral Home, 41 Main Street, Sharon, CT .

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

Published by Connecticut Post on Oct. 19, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Paul Leka

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Lisa J Landone

August 13, 2021

Paul thank you and thank you again.
GOD Bless you always!
Ps Send me a great hook from your treasure trove

Bob Ryan

August 12, 2021

Hi, My name is Bob Ryan. I first worked for Paul doing the horn charts on Angela's album and worked with him on different projects since then. At the time of Paul's passing I was in the hospital having open heart surgery and found out after the fact what happened. For the following 2 years my health slowly declined but after a couple more years I got my health back stronger than I was before. I'm posting this now because it's near 10 years since Paul passed and I'm hoping that there might be a memorial service this October. If Tony or Michael sees this please let me know. My email address is: [email protected]. Thanks much!

Carlos Carr

October 13, 2020

Dear Paul Rest In Peace you’re always remembered as a kind , wonderful and talented friend , Carlos Carr

Carlos Carr

October 13, 2019

I will always keep Pauls memory in my heart and in my mind, as wonderful and generous friend and as a musical genius, me and my brother (The Carr Twins), were blessed to work with him while he was with CBS and after that , his passing was a big loss for all of us . RIP dear Paul, never forgotten, sincerely, Carlos Carr

Jack LaBrecque

July 1, 2017

Well, the news of Gary Decarlo passing brought back a lot of old memories for me. I guess Gary will join you and Curly.

JOHN DRAKE

March 8, 2017

Growing up I kept my ear glued to the radio and loved both Green Tambourine, and the "Steam" classic, Kiss Him Goodbye. During my early teens I became a radio DJ and had a long career, playing each son hundreds of time over a 20 year career... Only today when researching details of the Steam session to reference for a friend did I come to realize Paul was also the mastermind behind Green Tambourine... An amazing talent and by all accounts great person, thank you for the great music and wonderful memories, Paul Leka. Rest in Peace.

Bill Cutler

December 31, 2016

I met Paul in the mid-1960s. I was a young songwriter and he was the first real professional in the music business to believe in my talent. He wanted to sign me to a record deal, but I was under 18 years old and my parents refused to let me sign the contract. Nevertheless, he ehelped me gain the self esteem that led me on to do many other things as a singer/songwriter and musician. I'm sorry to learn of his passing, even though I realize it was years ago. he was so talented as a writer and producer. I only wish our paths had crossed once again later in life.

Noel Gibilaro

June 8, 2016

Thank you for sharing your talent with the world. You made a difference in the lives of so many and shared your soul in your music. You have left this world but your music lives on.

Carlos Carr

November 29, 2015

To his beautiful wife angiejlush, thank you for giving my dear friend and producer Paul Leka the best years of his life happiness to you and Alexander I will love Paul forever

CHRIS ANSPACH

October 21, 2015

I no a lot of time passed since he died,I still have fond memories of him.I met him in AC NJ. I LOTS OF FUN PLAYING ROULETTE,WITH HIM. I often wondered if he ever wrote a book on ROULETTE? He loved 2 show me his beat up car he drove 2 AC LAUGHED about it. DEEPEST CONDULANCE goes out 2 the FAMILY! GREAT GUY! Still hard 2 believe . KAREN L. FISCHER SAYS IT BETTER THAN I EVER CAN!

Steven Hangos

December 9, 2014

There are no words that can say how I feel we were good friends in High School and for a time after.

December 9, 2014

You were a good friend in High School.

December 8, 2014

You will always live in our hearts and prayers.

April 8, 2014

Growing up in Bridgeport, I remember visiting his recording studio in the mid 1970's. RIP.
Michael Shavel, Stratford, CT

Rick Barros

September 26, 2013

Thank you Paul for the privilege to record with you and Billy in 1976 THE HITCHHIKERS.. YOU ARE SUCH A UNIQUE PERSON,
RIP! Ricky Barros. You will forever be remembered!

February 20, 2013

I only now learned of Paul's death. He brought me three songs when I was at United Artists Music in 1967-Green Tambourine, I Need Someone, and Pink Lemonade. He was very talented and I'm sorry I never connected again with him during his life. May he rest in peace. Eddie Reeves
WeeklyBlah.com

Terry Jantzi-Dyer

January 24, 2013

RIP

November 18, 2011

So sorry to hear about Paul, my brother Gary Root knew George well from the military and i worked for Paul when i was 16 years old when they started to record drum and bugle corps. I was honored to be in the studio that night that Harry Chapin was recording "WOLD" and looked up to Paul and Billy Rose on what they did for the music world then and to this date. Was a highlight of my life that i will always remember. Paul was such a giving and friendly guy and i thank him for the experience at such a young age of my life. I wish the Leka family well in this time of Paul's passing. With love from my brother Gary Root Ocala, Florida and Tim Root Lakeland, Florida.

Bob Lasprogato

November 17, 2011

My condolences to Paul's family. I knew Paul way back when he wrote Na Na...Went to Connecticut Recording studio one day. Paul played me an unedited instrumental track of that song.
We were working on a project and Paul introduced me to Bobby Darin when he was working for Darin. Paul was a dynamic, very creative person.
His music will go on.

November 12, 2011

Dear George and family,
I'm so very sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of Paul especially being such a great piano player at a young age and taking us to NY after our prom. He will be in my prayers.
Linda (Annicelle) Picheco

Peter Campo

November 8, 2011

To all the Leka family, So very sorry to hear of Pauls passing...When George and I were playing in the street on Colorado Ave, I remember always coming back to the Leka house and hearing Paul play the piano on the porch...He was always a soft, carring and gentle person, with a wonderful smile. So very sorry, Pete Campo

Sheryl Paul

November 8, 2011

I am very sorry to hear of Paul's passing. I was LUCKY to have been chosen by him for a high school internship [approx 1979!!] to work evenings in the old Bpt studio. I got donuts, cleaned up, and just LEARNED. I also got to ride in Paul's COOL car [a Bricklin I think] to the Sharon studio, before it was rebuilt. I have some photos from that time, and would be happy to send them to you, if you care to contact me via email[[email protected]]. He was a really great man. Take care.

Karen L. Fischer-Perkins

November 7, 2011

November 7, 2011
Dear Leka Family,
It is still so hard to believe that this has happened..I am so very sorry for your loss. Paul was a one of a kind person, and earth's loss is heaven's gain. But it is so hard and sorrowful for all he has left behind. May God and his angels watch over you.
The music in heaven is now better, but the loss on earth is profound..
With Heartfelt Sympathy and Prayers,
Karen L. Fischer-Perkins

D Beckett

November 1, 2011

To the Leka Family,

I am truly sorry for your loss. You have my heartfelt sympathy. In Luke 7:22,Jesus demonstrated what he as heavenly King will do for mankind. In God`s Kingdom all sickness,disabilities,and death will be removed. May you find comfort in the scripture.

October 31, 2011

The GOD of comfort has promised that very shortly no resident will say: “I am sick.” The people that are dwelling in [the land] will be those pardoned for their error.

May the GOD of comfort bring you peace during this time of sorrow.

D. Clark

Jack LaBrecque

October 27, 2011

I accidently ran across the news that Paul had passed away. I knew Paul as a teenager when he and Camille (Curly) Cote were friends. Paul and Curly were a couple of years younger than me but they were part of the old "State Street" crowd in the West End of Bridgeport. Just the mention of his name brings back a lot of great memories about Banville's, The Flying Saucer and the West End Bowling Alleys. I did talk to him in recent years and was planning to call him to get together for dinner sometime. I should have done it sooner.

Say hello to Curly for me Paul.

Rico Monaco

October 26, 2011

I had the great honor to have met Paul in 1987 at Connecticut Recording and soon after became good musical friends with him. He was one of the most interesting, talented, and accomplished people I have ever known. Working with him on songs and musical projects was an education for me. Obviously his spiritual devotion is what comforts my thoughts of him now. It has been a few years since we last spoke but he will always be fresh on my mind. May God Bless his family and friends. He will be with you in your hearts forever.

HARRY CUEVAS

October 25, 2011

I WAS SHOCKED TO HEAR ABOUT THE PASSING OF PAUL HE WAS A GREAT GUY HE WROTE A SONG FOR MY BAND THE BANDITOS CALL BABY I LOVE YOU WHICH I STILL PLAY TODAY, PAUL WAS KIND TO US AS WE HAD JUST CAME TO AMERICA FROM PUERTO RICO, EVERY TIME I HEAR ONE OF HIS SONGS I REMEMBER THE GOOD TIMES HE SHOW ME AND MY BAND. MAY THE GOOD BLESS HIS FAMILY FOR HE WILL CONTINUE TO WRITE HIS MUSIC IN HEAVEN. GOD BLESS THE LEKA FAMILY.

HARRY CUEVAS
ELLENTON FLORIDA
PEACE OUT

Denise Drzal

October 25, 2011

To Paul's family, so sorry for your loss.

Paul's contributions to so many will remain his legacy and those of us from years past will think of him in high regard.
May God grant you peace of heart through this difficult time.

Lisa J Landone

October 25, 2011

Someone once told me that the most important thing we can do is inspire others. Thank you Paul Leka for doing just that. Your confidence in me made all the difference. P.S. You will always be one of Bridgeport's "coolest"
God Bless You. Lisa Landone

Athina and Pauline Leka

October 24, 2011

To Paul's family. We were sorry to hear about Paul. We are first cousin's and remember visiting his mother and father when were young girls. My father Philip was his uncle and my mother Efterpi his aunt. Sorry we did not get to know him but always thought of him when his wonderful song was played. May he rest in peace.

dennis glancy

October 24, 2011

sorry to hear about Paul's passing. may he rest in peace.
judy and dennis glancy
iowa

Rich Permanente

October 24, 2011

Paul was such an inspiration and mentor to me so many years ago. I've never forgotten his kindness and generosity and was proud to have his craft grace my creative efforts.

Alex Zotos

October 23, 2011

Pauls humor and kindness will always be in our hearts,the Zotos brothers.

Jim Pandaru

October 23, 2011

My deepest condolences to the Leka family. All of us from the old Bridgeport neighborhoods in the West End were close knit and very proud of Paul's musical gifts, achievements, and thoughtfulness to others... Memory Eternal.

Dave Hicks

October 23, 2011

I will remember Paul thru his music, though we never actually met, we have bpt connections.He will be missed throughout the music and bpt community God bless Dave & Diane Hicks

BOB FITZGERALD

October 23, 2011

THE MUSIC INDUSDRY WON'T BE THE SAME.....PAUL WAS A GREAT GUY AND A TRUE FRIEND..

Hank Schorz

October 22, 2011

My very deepest sympathy to paul's family and friends. While I have not had the chance to see paul in years, I fondly cherish his great warmth and care towards others. He lit up the room when he entered. I remember many hours in the studio with paul in the mid to late 60's and early 70's. He was and will remain a legend to the music industry and to those he touched. may he rest eternal in peace.

Jamie Hosmer

October 22, 2011

I will never forget Paul. I had the pleasure of spending time at his Sharon residence, working for a short time as an audio engineer for him. Besides learning so much musically, lyrically and in music production in general from him, Paul and his entire family are some of the nicest people you will ever meet. Great memories.

Kathy Zelle-Duke

October 21, 2011

To the Leka Family,
I have fond memories at CT Recording. He was a fine and talented man. Kathy Zelle-Duke

Ray Dee

October 21, 2011

I always remember Paul with a big confident smile. You followed your dream and amazing talent for music and producing.. I'll never forget when you produced our first recording and how much work and energy you put into... But that was you!!!! You ate slept and drank music. NA NA NA NA,, NA NA NA NA Hey Hey Goodbye... Rock & Roll Heaven now has a great producer.

David Connelly

October 21, 2011

Paul was a great Producer/Songwriter/Musician. We lost contact over the years, however I especially cherish the partnership we shared in Shakespeare Productions and the time we spent together producing my wife Julie. I remember one time when we were mixing and I went to the kitchen for a break and ate some radishes out of the fridge. Well, when I returned and we started mixing again in very close quarters, Paul stopped and said "What in God's name did you just eat, do you not know that radishes are onions", at which time I ran back to the kitchen and returned with a radish which he immediately consumed.I hope someday to re-unite with him in record heaven and again produce together. My deepest sympathy to his Family, love David and Julie Connelly

Geoff Klish

October 20, 2011

Thank you, Paul, for sharing the book "As A Man Thinketh". So have I become, thanks to you. I will always treasure our time together and hold you in fond memory. May your family's grief be as swift as it is sincere. Rest now my friend.

Family Gathering

Nickolas Kosma

October 20, 2011

Paul was my 1st cousin, our mother’s where sister, and our families grew up together. We knew each other all of our lives. We have loved one another. Paul and his family was very close to my family, he was in my wedding and was my friend. I know that he is in the loving arms of Jesus and we will see each other again.

Old Family Picture

Nickokas Kosma

October 20, 2011

Paul was my 1st cousin we have known each other all our lifes. Our families loved one another, Paul's mother was my mother's sister and our families did many things together. Pual went to the same church,was in my wedding amd was always my friend. I know that he is in the loving arms of Jesus.

Bob Ranaudo

October 20, 2011

Paul was a dear frend and very talented musician/songwriter. We had many great music sessions and rap sessions together. He will be missed.
My condolences to his family...
God bless you Paul

Kathie Adamson

October 20, 2011

"I have to make it by the time I'm 30"
God Bless you, Paul.

My condolences to the Leka family.

Anne Amato

October 19, 2011

I knew Paul many years ago and just recently reconnected with him. I am so sad to hear he is gone. I will cherish having had him in my life. My condolences to his family and especially his wife and children at this very difficult time.

Vic Steffens

October 19, 2011

In everyone's life there are one or people without whom it all would have been different. Paul was one of mine, I'm quite sure meeting him changed the course of my life for the better. Although we all will miss Paul I am most grateful that he had Anji and Alexander to light his life up to the end. He deserved it.

Heavan has a great band. Now they have someone to produce them.

Vic Steffens
www.Horizon Music Group.com

Ed Kasparek

October 19, 2011

Paul, your legacy will remain in the hearts of all of the people throughout the world that enjoyed your music. You have had a magic journey through life through your creativity and passion for what you loved and believed in.You came a long way from the old days of the Blendells singing at the record hops. We will all remember.

Anne Rose

October 19, 2011

Paul was one of my first employers at Conn. Recording Studio. He was someone I admired and learned so much from. I was saddened to hear of his passing. With my sympathy, Anne Malesky Rose

Peter Harmen Burke

October 19, 2011

RIP Paul may God Bless You and your family and millions of fans ,.,. Na Na Gone But Not Forgotten Na Na Kiss You GoodBy ,.,.

Jim Toloski

October 19, 2011

My sincerest condolence for the loss of a great man, Paul. I will truly miss him and his wonderful personality.

Louise Katherine Karoli Gallagher

October 19, 2011

Dear Leka Family,
I was so saddened to hear of the passing of your beloved, Paul. I extend my sincere sympathy. May all your wonderful memories be a source of comfort, at this most difficult time.


Sincerely,

Bushka Family

October 19, 2011

To the Leka family, Our deepest condolances for the loss of a wonderful person, Paul. Zoti Shendet...

Bill Tindall

October 19, 2011

To Evelyn and John Kreta and to all of Pauls family. Paul was my long time friend, all the memories and times we shared together will bring laughter and happiness to my sorrow. My sincerest thoughts are with all of you at your time of need. Paul, I will miss you, my friend.

Bill & Hope Tindall

October 19, 2011

To Angie with our deepest heartfelt sympathy. Alexander and you are in our prayers and thoughts in your time of need and sorrow. Paul was a great man and very good long time friend. Our memories of him shall keep him alive, but his presents shall be deeply missed.

Steve Gaspár

October 19, 2011

Paul, you will be missed, but the joy and legacy of your music will live on forever. For all you did for Suzanne and I, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Our heartfelt sympathy to the entire Leka family! Love, Stephen and Suzanne!

Linda and John Gilbert

October 19, 2011

Our deepest sympathy to the entire Leka family: Paul was certainly one of a kind. He was a humble and most sincere person and showed such kindness toward everyone. His godparents were extremely proud of him and he showed them much respect. He will be greatly missed.

wayne watt

October 19, 2011

Paul, I will Miss you. I was there to see you and help build Connnecticut Recording with my uncle Bill Rose. To New York watching you produce great music to just talking to you recently. My family will miss the kid from Bridgeport who made it in the Music Biz. Wayne Watt

Rick Brown

October 19, 2011

To George and the Leka family,

Plese accept my sincerest condolences.

Gary Zingo

October 19, 2011

To George and his family. May the wonderful memories and special times you;ve shared, keep his spirit alive within you, as you celebrate a life well lived.My deepest sympathy, Gary Zingo.

tom gallo

October 19, 2011

To All of Paul's Family
With deepest sympathy to you.
I went to Maplewood and Bassick with Paul,We all missed him last month at our 50th high school reunion.
May he rest in peace,he was loved by all of his classmates.
Tom & Ann Gallo

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