To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Dennis and Paula Lepak.
Laura P Raiman
February 21, 2021
Mel Raiman, my late husband, told stories about Al and what a great teacher he was. Mel credited Al for his success as a musician and teacher. Surely, Al's family has many wonderful memories to hold onto.
Andrew Bryenton
February 19, 2021
I am a cellist from Newington, studied at Hartt and played with Al in the Hartford Symphony. He was a force. I enjoyed performing his Percussion Concerto with the Hartt Orchestra. Igor was a classmate of mine at Hartt at that time. I'm a big Wildweeds fan, also. Remembrances and prayers.
William Moreen
June 6, 2019
I took drum lessons from Mr Lepak at the Hart School in approximately 1965 when I was around 12 years old. He told me I was his youngest student at that time. My mother drove me in and Mr. Lepak started swinging on a xylophone and asked me to keep time. Those lessons were the start of my exposure to professional, full time musicians. I also used to love to visit a drum store in downtown Hartford that he either owned or was associated with . I remember a twinkle in his eyes, some salty language (that impressed me greatly as a boy) and his cigar.
Carol Lightbody
December 28, 2009
Charlette & Family, Your husband/father was a wonderful person. It was a pleasure taking care of him when he was a patient on Bliss 8. We will be missed. God Bless all of you. (Singing Nurse Carol)
Notify Me
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Ken Nessing
October 13, 2009
I always felt the influence of the maestro through my lessons with Gene Bozzi, who spoke of him often. I am saddened to learn of his passing.
Al DeCaro Jr
June 10, 2009
Charlotte and Family,
Unfortunately, I just heard about Al's passing. One of the best parts of my life consists of my Saturday morning lessons with Al on Capital Ave. What a wonderful person, teacher, incredible musician and friend. Learned more than just Percussion from him. He's "Playin a Gig in Heaven."
God Bless you and your family. I will try to call you Charlotte, I think you'll remember me??
May 22, 2009
I just found out about the passing of Al Lepak. My memories go back to the first studio in the 50s, through my years at Hartt and to the last time I spent some time with him at the Atlanta PAS convention in the mid 90s. He was one-of-a-kind and had enormous influence on my life. We will all miss him.
Mel Raiman
Tucker Georgia
brian johnson
April 24, 2009
I learned last week of Al's passing and was saddened by the loss of one who had given so much to so many. I studied with Al at Hartt in the early seventies, am still playing, and still use many of the things he taught me about timpani, percussion and music making. He was one of the most musical people I've ever known, and was always, always one of the handsomest, coolest dudes on the planet!
I'll never forget him.
John Gennette
April 24, 2009
I just yesterday (Apr.23) learned of Al'passing.
I met Al and studied with him at his drum store on Capital Ave. and at Hartt College on Broad st. in 1962 and 63. He taught me so much about percussion but more importantly about life. He was a wonderful human being. He will be sorely missed by all of us who new him and had the opportunity of having him in our lives. I still have my set of George Way drums that I purchased from him in 1963 and will keep them forever. My condolences to the entire Lepak family.
Ruth Zumstein
April 15, 2009
One did not need to be a percussionist to appreciate, and benefit from, the genius and kindness of Al Lepak.What an impact he had on so many peoples' lives! He was a tremendous human being, and I will always be grateful that he conducted 'L'Histoire du Soldat' on my recital at Hartt. (1978)
My condolences to all of his family.
~ Ruth Zumstein - violinist
Montclair, NJ
Stephanie Tudan Larkin
April 3, 2009
To Charlotte and the entire Lepak family
We were sorry that we were unable to be with you during this very sad time, we were out of state when Al passed. We viewed his obituary online. What a great picture of him and a wonderful write up. I was sad that we weren't at the funeral Mass to share in remembering Al's legacy.
I have many fond memories of the Lepak family coming in to St. Gabe's with Al and Charlotte leading the family. How she ever got all the children up and ready for church amazes me!
We shared many fun family gatherings on Hillcrest Road with the Lepaks and the Tudans. At each one Al had a funny story or event to share.
It was also fun to be together in Waterville Valley when Al and Charlotte came up for conventions in the valley.
Please accept my deepest sympathy and I know Al is now free from pain and suffering able to speak once again and share his message of love in the heavens.
With sympathy, Stephanie, Steve, Kasey and Steve Larkin
Ginger Burgess Patrick
April 2, 2009
Mrs. Lepak, Igor, Anna and the entire family - I am taken back in a space and time where I was so happy - with memories that enriched my life. Mr. Lepak - so filled with the joy of loving his wife (beamingly so proud to be her husband), his family and sharing his happiness .. anyone visiting your home knew this... - the desire to teach his children, his family, the world the music that God had gifted him with.. and he did share all that God gave him with us.
I remember sunday masses.. they were just not the same for me without the Lepak Family strolling in ST. Gabriel's side door.. the love there.. was so real. I can still see your faces.
I feel the pain of your loss.. words can never truly give homage. Please know my prayers are with you, I know Mr. Lepak is home .. preparing and with the ones that have gone before.
I thank you for the opportunity you gave to me to know you. As brief as that was.. and maybe some of you will have trouble remembering me, gosh you all know so many! You have remained.. and always have been in my heart.
Mr. Lepak, I will always remember you as the strong, loving caring Husband and Father who was sound delighted. My prayers are a song to be sung with you and yours.
Ginger Burgess Patrick
(AKA Gigi)
(Virginia)
Virginia Burgess-Bronga
April 1, 2009
Dear Mrs.Lepak and family, I have just heard of your loss, and wanted you to know we are praying for Mr.Lepak and for the whole family at this time of need. We are aquainted with the loss and know the sorrow, and empathize with you all. Please tell Igor we miss him and keep him in our daily rosary, along with his little family. God bless you, we will remember the kind man who was so gracious to us all. The Burgess Family of Windsor
Bonnie Burgess
April 1, 2009
I can not express my feeling that the world has lost a truly wonderful man. I remember the hugs every Sunday at church and the warm welcoem I always received in the home when I visited. My deepest sympathies to Mrs. Lepak, Igor, and the whole family.
Jim and Donna Fusco
March 30, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to Mrs. Lepak and the Lepak family.
DenisGagne Gagne
March 28, 2009
Dear Lepaks,
Very sorry to hear of Alexanders passing. We heard from our daughter Denise who is an attorney in Hartford.
I met you all many years ago. I am Irene Laquerre's number 7 child of 11 and we lived in Meriden Ct. Grandpa Edgar and my mom were siblings.
Please accapt our sympathy on the loss of Alexander.
Sincerely, Denis and Barbara Gagne
Manny and Rosemary Alvarez
March 28, 2009
Rosemary and I are deeply saddened by Al's passing. Al was an inspiring teacher, mentor, friend, and family man. Our prayers are with his family.
Irene (Kuchas) Baltronis
March 28, 2009
Charlotte, So sorry to hear of your loss. My deepest sympathies to you and your family.
Dr. Lenzy R. Wallace Jr
March 28, 2009
It is with great sadness that I learned of Al's passing. He was one fantastic gentleman. We were among the earlier Hartt School returning WWll veterans at the old building at 187 Broad St in Hartford. I played many gigs with Al during those early days. He was to later teach me the rudiments of percussion thereby helpiing to pass the requirements as a music education student. I know that God will be accepting Al into His band and orchestra. God Bless you my friend. Lenzy
Dave Daddario
March 28, 2009
Igor Lepak & Family,
I was fortunate enough to play my first show ever with Al and many gigs and shows after that. Al was a tremendous musician, a true legend. Full of great advice and stories. He will be missed.
Respectfully,
Nancy & Miltie Baker
March 28, 2009
Dear Pete, Betsy and Lepak Family
Please accept our deepest sympathy
on the passing of your father.
Milton had the great pleasure of knowing your father,unfortunately I did not,however just knowing Pete,I know that he was a great role model.
Mr.Lepak obviously was not only a very talented man but a very unique and well loved,gentle man.
Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers at this very sad time.
Sincerely
Tom & Chiara Leone (Hartt School)
March 28, 2009
Dear Charlotte and family, we extend our deepest sympathy for your loss. May all of the good memories help soothe your sadness. My son tells me, "There is never a time when I touch my sticks or play my drums that I don't think of Al. He is always with me." Thanks Al, for touching our lives since the sixties, Tony, Tom, Chiara and Grampa Tony Leone
John McInerney
March 28, 2009
Mrs. Lepak, Igor and family,
So sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of Mr. Lepak as my teacher and mentor at Hartt. Al was a wonderful musician, teacher and a very kind man.
Laurie Bergeron
March 27, 2009
Igor and Family,
Our heartfelt sympathy go out to you, your Mom and entire family in the loss of your Dad. Although gone from this life, as you know, he will be with you always. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with all.
Bob Scully, Jr. & Laurie Bergeron
MARGIE BLYTHE-MATUSZAK
March 27, 2009
TO THE ENTIRE LEPAK FAMILY: I WAS SO SAD TO HEAR AND READ OF THE PASSING OF MR. LEPAK. SUCH A WARM AND WONDERFUL MAN. WE SURE HAD A GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD TO GROW UP IN THAT HAS GIVEN US LASTING MEMORIES NOW AS ADULTS. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH ALL OF YOU AT THIS TIME OF SORROW AND NEED. PEACE...
Don Baba
March 27, 2009
To the Lepak Family,
I had the great privilege and pleasure of knowing Mr. Lepak at Hartt. I was fortunate to have been able to perform in his ensembles and just be around him back in the early 80's. He was a great musician, educator and as well as a great guy. I'm glad to count myself as one of the many, many people to have learned a few lessons from him.
My condolences.
Chuck & Joan Furnari
March 27, 2009
Dear Charlotte and family there are no words at a time like this just remember all the wonderful times his wonderful humor his love of music but most of all his love of his family. He was a very special person to be missed by many but his memory will bring a smiles to all who knew him. Be assured my father Edwin will be there to great his brother with open arms. Sorry we could not be there but as you know we are in Florida and will be in touch as soon as we return
Love
Joni and Chuck
Mark and Tricia Bratter
March 27, 2009
The Lepak Family, Our sincere condolences on the loss of a very kind and giving man.
Mary K. Drost
March 27, 2009
Dear Charlotte & family, Alexander was a prince of a fellow, whether it was as the patriarch of the timpani or head of his wonderful family. Our sympathy to all of the Lepaks on the loss of a sweet man.
Charlotte, I graduated with your brother Richie and fondly remember your beautiful contortions and dancing on stage at the John Fitch High school.
Mary K. Drost
sue and bruno ranniello
March 27, 2009
it was a great gig! see you in Heaven.
Bill and Gayle Stuart
March 27, 2009
Our deepest sympathies to all of you. He taught me much about music, and even more about life. He was the real deal. Truly a great man. He will be sorely missed by all.
Kirstin Winslow-Curley
March 27, 2009
Dear Charolette and all of the Lepaks,
What a huge part of my life you all have been. A true testiment to marriage, comittment and family. I have been so lucky to have grown up with you all. Deepest sympathy from my family to yours.
Terry & Louise Chase
March 27, 2009
Lepak Family;
We are saddened to hear of your loss. We know Al was a much loved man who has a special place in the hearts of multitudes of people he touched. May you be comforted by all the memories and the legacy he has provided your family.
Our sincere condolences!
Peg Stewart
March 27, 2009
Mrs. Lepak. I am so sorry for your loss. While a grammar school student, I remember sitting on the floor of the Clover Street School
auditorium and being spellbound during Mr Lepak's presentation. That
was over 45 years ago. My sincere condolences to you and your family.
Barbara Coccomo
March 27, 2009
Dear Charlotte and family,
Football on the lawn, prayers at 9:00 sharp in the front room, the continuous sounds of percussion, the tree house, the Oakdale - so many memories of a wonderful family that shaped the lives of the "kids next door". "We will all miss him so, but how lucky we were to have him and all of you!
Love, Barbie Winslow Coccomo
Gary Lepak
March 27, 2009
Aunt Charlotte and family,
I'll always have great memories of my Uncle Al.
My sincerest sympathies go out to you at this time.
Gary Lepak
Karin (Starkweather) Garcia
March 27, 2009
Dear Mark and Family,
I am sorry to hear of your loss. Your father (husband) sounded like a wonderful and interesting man. You must be very proud of all he had accomplished.
Duska Winslow
March 27, 2009
Dear Charlotte, Lepak Kids and ESPECIALLY ANNA,
Please accept my sincere condolences. Al "The Gist" was like my second father for the 18 years I lived next door. He always made me feel welcome and I was always very aware of the fact that he loved his wife and children dearly. Some of my fondest memories are of the times I spent with my best friend Anna and the rest of the Lepak family. I will always hold a soft spot in my heart for Al and he will be sorely missed by many. Love, Duska
Brian and Lorraine Czarnota
March 27, 2009
Aunt Charlotte, Pop, et al.
Childhood memories of the good times with y'all will ever be in my heart. May calm waters be with you as Uncle Al enters the safe harbor of eternal life and conducts the band of angels.
Peace and Love,
Brian and Lorraine Czarnota
Maryellen Shuckerow
March 27, 2009
To all the Lepak Family, especially Anna, we go back a long way to our days at St. Gabriels School. Your Dad was a cool guy and respected and well thought of by so many.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you all.
Maryellen M. Shuckerow
Essex, CT
Michelle Tallis
March 27, 2009
Our Sincere Condolences to you and your entire family.
Callie D'Addio
March 27, 2009
My deepest sympathies go to the entire Lepak Family (especially Pete, Chris and Betsy) during this sad time. Mr. Lepak was a wonderful musician role model for all us young undergrads roaming the halls of the Hartt School. He will be greatly missed!
Louis Lazzerini
March 27, 2009
Dear Charlotte,
Al was my mentor and advocate for 50 years. His advice and leadership brought me through those years with little discomfort and much joy. His absence will leave a void in my life but for the memories. His kindness and love of humanity will be an everlasting legace which will last an eternity. I will keep him and you in my thoughts forever.
Susan Rittenhouse
March 26, 2009
Dearest Auntie Charlotte and family,
My sincere sympathy and prayers are with you and all my cousins, the grandchildren and all of Uncle Al's friends and students. Oh, but what a full wonderful life he had, to have a home full of children who loved and cherished every moment with him, to have experienced all his Life dreams, to have such wonderful grandchildren, and the love of my Dearest Aunt Charlotte, What life could want for more. How loved he was, how missed he will be. What a mark he has left on this world. Love Susan :(
Devra Hoerner
March 26, 2009
A thought of my dearest grandfather.. How we miss you already! I can not think of a person who taught me more about humility, work ethic and strength than my grandfather. My only regret is that his remarkable qualities will not be experienced by my own children. I am so thankful that I was by your side until the end and look forward to seeing you again someday. I love you pops and will always treasure the amazing memories we shared. Miss you always!! Love you Pops!!
Mari Smith-Negron
March 26, 2009
So sorry about your loss. It looks like your father lived a very full and productive life and has a son following in his footsteps! Prayers and blessings to you and your family, your friend,Mari SmithNegron
Susan Lepak Russell
March 26, 2009
Dear Aunt Charlotte and family, I have wonderful memories of the Lepak clan gathering on Sundays at our grandparents' house on Bonner Street. The fun really started when Aunt Charlotte and Uncle Al arrived with our cousins. I am so sorry to hear of Uncle Al's passing and will keep you and your family in my thoughts.
John and Natalie Fortin
March 26, 2009
Dear Charlotte and all the family, We send our sympathy on the passing of a fine man, a musical legend. Knowing him from growing up in St. Lawrence O'Toole parish, serving on the altar with him and his brothers, then being parishioners of St. Gabriel's with him and his family in later years was a joy. We pray for your comfort at this sad time. Love in Christ, John and Natalie Fortin
Kenny Hicks
March 26, 2009
My deepest sympathy to the entire Lepak family.
Al had an enormous impact on my life as my percussion instructor first at his Capital Avenue store and later at the Hartt College of Music. He always made me look forward to my lessons each week because of his amazing knowledge of percussion as well as his great sense of humor (even on those weeks when I hadn't practiced as often as I should have).
I will sincerely miss everything about him and again want to express my deepest sympathy to the entire Lepak family.
Manny & Beatrice Fonseca Jr.,
March 26, 2009
Our Sincere Condolences to you,
Al and Elizabeth, on your very
heart-felt loss !
Ken Trestman
March 26, 2009
He was my hero, confidant, psychologist, teacher, mentor, and friend for the short few years I had the honor of knowing and working with him. To prepare and tune his drums was of great honor for me and I will always cherish my memories of him. I offer my deepest condolences to Mrs. Lepak and the entire clan.
Josette Lumbruno
March 26, 2009
My heart goes out to the entire family on the loss of a father, grandparent and friend. Many ears have heard his music, many more to come. A musical memory for all.
Rita Caliendo Tryon
March 26, 2009
What a priviledge it was to know and experience the values of the entire Lepak family. Their home was an open door policy and the discussions would go in every different direction but also focused on music that touched your heart and soul.Smiles abounded everywhere and each and every member of the family were allowed to be themselves. My prayers go out to each and every family member as they continue to remember a great man with that quiet nature yet giving to all and that smile that made you always feel the world was allright. My thanks for all Alex did for my family when a family feeling was needed.
Bobi @ Don Borenstein
March 26, 2009
We have lost a dear friend, an outstanding percussionist, a first class teacher, and a superb human being. Our condolences go out to Charlotte, Igor, and the rest of the family."Leep" will be missed by all.
Bill Steinberg
March 26, 2009
Our deepest sympathies to the entire Lepak family. Al will be missed by many around the world. Our thoughts are with you.
Marianne maruca
March 26, 2009
Heather & Jeff and the Lepak Family - We sincerely sorry for your loss. The Maruca Family
Salvatore Ranniello
March 26, 2009
Dear Mrs. Lepak and family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Mr. Lepak's passing is a great loss to the percussion community and he will be deeply missed by many. I will always cherish my time with him as both student and professional colleague. He was a truly amazing musicaian, but more importantly an amazing man, who taught me not only how to be a better player but a better person. Mr. Lepak was the epitome of the true family man, and I will always be thankful for the extra-musical traits he helped instill in me. I will miss him dearly.
Sincerely,
Sal Ranniello + family (Siobhan, Alexander, Michaela)

An Al Lepak timpani class @ Manchester HS 2/2007
Keith Berry (Hartt '81
March 26, 2009
My deepest sympathy to the Lepak family. I'll miss Al for his great teaching, great musicianship and his loving devotion to his family. One of my favorite days as a teacher was in 2007 when Al, at 86, spent the day teaching my Manchester High School students with his granddaughter Joanna (a percussionist!) beaming with pride.
Joseph Cooke
March 26, 2009
Mr. Lepak was a faithfl cu\ommunicant of St. Gabriels Church and I fondly remember him and his family at the Sunday masses. He will be missed by the entire church family. As deacon at St. Gabriels I have conversed with him many times.
Florence Fortin Marino
March 26, 2009
I salute the memory of Al Lepak! He was from the wonderful family of Andy and Mary Lepak and we all grew up together as a church family in St. Lawrence O'Toole's parish in Hartford. How proud his parents would be today to know of Al's accomplishments. God's blessings to you, Charlotte, and your beautiful family. May happy memories sustain you all in the difficult days ahead.
Dennis Lepak
March 26, 2009
Al was my favorite uncle and my idol when I was growing up in Hartford. I was always so proud that we were related.
My condolences to Charlotte and the rest of the family.
Patrick Bowen
March 26, 2009
Our deepest sympathy in your loss. A wonderful teacher and mentor, the drums will be silent for a very long time.
Mary Molloy (Kinghorn)
March 26, 2009
Anna and family, I am so sorry for your loss, your father was a wonderful person always so kind and friendly. I will remember him fondly and pray for you all. Love Mary
paul poirier
March 26, 2009
Mr. Lepak was a legend not only in the music industry but also as a citizen of Windsor and I am profoundly saddened by his passing. Always graceful and accommodating to anyone he met; he was really special and I cannot recall him ever not greeting me with a smile and a good word. My sincerest condolences to Mrs. Lepak and his children on their loss and be assured that were I not in Fl that I would be present in Windsor to pay my respects.
Jim Stavris Jr.
March 26, 2009
A master teacher and steller human being who had a profound impact on scores of people...he absolutely changed my Father's life for the better and for that Dad was always grateful...he will be greatly missed...from our family to yours, our deepest sympathy.
Michele Fusco
March 26, 2009
Judy and Lepak Family:
I have nothing but happy memories of your father and family. Can't thank you enough Judy for being there for my family at Hartford Hospital! Your father's memory will live on! Deepest sympathies,
Michele Fusco
Ann Speyer
March 26, 2009
Dear Igor and your family,
Alexander Lepak was one of the best people at Hartt. He was immensely talented, both as a musician and as a caring, vibrant person. I'm so very sorry to see that he has gone. My caring and condolences to you and your family.
Ann
Sandy & Tom Stough
March 26, 2009
Dear Lepak family,
My heart goes out to all of you on the loss of you husband, father and grandfather. What a wonderful loving family he and mom Charlotte raised. May the loving memories of the years you had together comfort you and bring joy to your heart. He will never be forgotten and will always be loved. My God bless you all and comfort you in your time of need. With much love,
Jenn Hull
March 26, 2009
Cyn, Matt and the entire Lepak family - I am sincerely sorry for your loss. You and your entire family will remain in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I did not meet your father/grandfather, but knowing both of you I am positive that he was a widely loved and respected person.
Jill Champaigne
March 26, 2009
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Candi Fusco
March 26, 2009
Peter and Betsy,
My deepest sympathies to you and your family during this difficult time.
JOE MCCARTHY
March 26, 2009
Mrs. Lepak and Family
It is with the deepest sadness that I send this note of condolence to you. Mr. and Mrs. Lepak have been two of my greatest sources of inspiration since I entered the Hartt School over twenty years ago. The love and care you have shared with so many is a lesson to us all. As a student of Mr. Lepak, I will be forever grateful for his enormous gift of teaching and mentoring. There was a life lesson every moment with him, up until 2 months ago, when I visited for the last time. Mrs. Lepak, you are fortunate to be surrounded by such a magnificent family, you are in good hands. Thank you for making this difficult part of Mr. Lepak's life the best it could be, you are simply an amazing woman. I am very sorry I cannot be there in person. Not a day goes by without great thoughts of both of you.
With much love,
Joe McCarthy
Chief Musician
United States Naval Academy Band
Annapolis, MD
Spiros Maheras
March 26, 2009
Mary and Family
Our deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. I know it was a long battle for your father and the whole family. May the many happy memories of your father help you through the days that lie ahead.
With love the Maheras Family
Jim Stankevich
March 26, 2009
Mr. Lepak was one of the finest people to ever grace this planet. With all the responsibility and hectic days of raising so many kids under one roof Mr. Lepak always welcomed more kids into the house and made you feel like one of the family.
Talented, kind, compassionate, always friendly, and one of a kind. He will be missed by everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.
Carmon Funeral Homes, Inc.
March 26, 2009
With deepest sympathy during your time of mourning.
Showing 1 - 76 of 76 results

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more