Leo Fiorini, 88, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 15 , 2023 in Bradenton , Florida. Leo was born in West Springfield to the late Tertuliano and Emma (Suffriti) Fiorini. He grew up in West Side on Memorial Avenue and was a former communicant of St Anne’s Church. Leo was a long time member of the Dante Club and also the Moose Club in Venice Fl. He served in the US Army from 1957-1959.
Leo leaves his wife of 65 years Beverly (Brant), his son Michael (Mary) Fiorini, and was predeceased by his son Rich (Yvonne) in 2011. He also leaves his cherished grandchildren Jeff, Nick, Rochelle, Miranda and Brianna as well as 8 great grandchildren. The grandchildren had a special relationship with Leo and always enjoyed visiting him and Bev in Venice Florida. Leo was also predeceased by his four siblings Fred, Johnny, Florence and his twin Lilly and also leaves behind several nephews and nieces.
Leo’s greatest accomplishment in life took place during the last 15 years through the devotion he displayed in caretaking for his wife Bev. He sacrificed those last precious years in caring for her as she struggled through various health issues. He showed everyone what a loving and dedicated spouse he was by making sure she received the best care each and every day at times ignoring his own health.
Leo spent most of his youth around the Eastern States Coliseum as a rink rat where he learned to skate and play hockey. His best friends growing up were Rudy Basilone and Richie Frasco and they would go on to play at West Side High and AIC together. They won the 1952 Division 1 State High School Hockey Championship and remain the only team from Western Mass to accomplish that feat to date.
Leo’s love for the game of hockey was passed down to his boys as he was instrumental in starting the West Side youth hockey program. He loved teaching the game and coached teams from youth hockey through High School. Countless days were spent playing at the Rez, Elks Club, Memorial School, The Old Bed and other outdoor rinks in town.
Leo worked as an accountant for United Technologies for 33 years and finished his career in Tucson Arizona. Here they became die hard University of Arizona fans and were season ticket holders for the football and basketball teams. In 1994 they moved to Venice Florida to enjoy their retirement years in the warm weather where they hosted many family and friends. Their home was full of fun and laughter as they enjoyed playing card games and hosting Happy Hour. Leo lived a full life and made an impact on many people during his 88 years.
There will be a funeral service Friday April 21st at 11:00 am at St. Thomas Church, 47 Pine St., West Springfield followed by burial with Military Honors in St. Thomas Cemetery. O’Brien Family Funeral Home in South Hadley has been entrusted with the arrangements. For more information or to make online condolences please go to obrienfamilyfh.com.
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