Eugene Leone

Eugene J. Leone, age 93 of Elmwood Park, died peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, October 13, 2022. Born in Paterson, Eugene was a lifelong resident of Elmwood Park and was the oldest of 3 children born to John and Mary Leone (nee Toth).
A passionate family man, he was the Grill Master Extraordinaire - for his family picnics with children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. These were his most special times. And a perfectionist making his famous Manhattan clam chowder for the annual firemen's picnics.
Eugene was employed as Sheet Metal Foreman for Totowa Metals in Paterson for 43 years.
The Sheet Metal Workers' International Association proudly recognized his 50 years of continuous good standing service as a member in 1997 'Local Union No. 25'. He spent much of his leisure summer days fishing in Long Island Sound with his lifelong cherished buddy "Howie" after his retirement.
He was devoted and proud to protect his community as a member of the Elmwood Park Volunteer Fire Dept. Co. 2 for 60 years, serving as E.P. Fire Chief from 1978-1980. He was elected a lifetime membership of the New Jersey State Firemen's Association, and was a member of the Central Bergen Mutual Aid, and The Bergen County Firemen's Home Association.
Surviving is his beloved wife Eleanor (nee McDonald) of 70 years, his devoted children daughter Maryellen Tafrate and her husband Rich, his daughter Patricia Leone, and his daughter Gail Leone. Eugene is predeceased by his beloved son Kenneth E. Leone in 2014 and loving stepmother Trina Leone.
Eugene was also the cherished Grandfather of Robert Weston, Christopher Weston, Darren Weston, Heather Grella, and Amanda Leone along with 9 Great-Grandchildren. He is also survived by his loving sisters Louise Suter and Arlene Vandenberg (Neil) along with his nieces and nephews.
The Leone family will receive family and friends on Friday, Oct. 21, 3:00 until 7:00 PM at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff. Funeral services for Eugene will be Saturday, October 22, 9:30 AM at the funeral home. Interment will be in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Totowa.
In lieu of flowers a memorial contribution in Eugene's memory may be made to:
The Elmwood Park Defender Co. No. 2, P.O. Box 53, Elmwood Park, NJ 07407 or The Wounded Warrior Project, Donor Care Center P.O. Box 758540, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8540
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