Vito DeLeonardis

I had the privilege of being Vito's primary care physician. We had a great relationship. Unfortunately, I just learned of his death today from my Sec. as we were out of town during his funeral. I am glad Vito and I had a chance to talk just a few days before his death. I called him while he was still in hospital in the Midwest. He sounded well and was looking forward to coming home. He was a terrific guy, a true gentleman and I will always thank him for his recommendations on great authors. I also will miss him and wish the best to his family and friends through this difficult time. Dr. Jeff Perkins

He was a good and smart man. He thought about others and knew me better than I did myself. In the last days, he gave me wisdom and I will honor and cherish it. He is loved and will be missed. Dean DeNardis (Arizona)

Vito and my late husband Fred shared a number of parallel experiences in the course of their lives, and their friendship grew from these common threads. Both were first-generation Americans, the sons of Italian immigrants. Both were decorated W.W. II veterans of the submarine service, who went on afterward to attain their degrees. Both had a passion for learning and dedicated themselves to the causes of education and the union movement. Both embraced humility, compassion, and justice. And both leave a rich legacy to those who loved them. My sincere condolences to Pat and the family.

He certainly made a difference to the lives and the careers of a generation of teachers! We owe him quite the debt. My sympathies to the family.
Mark C. Van Sluyters
Hoosic Valley Teachers Association-retired