Leo John Denault

Leo John Denault, 99, of Port St. Lucie, FL passed away peacefully July 8, 2023.
Leo was born June 19, 1924 in Springfield, MA to Leo F. Denault and Mae M. Powers. After high school, Leo served in the U.S. Army Air Force during WWII in the Pacific.
After his military service, he graduated from St. Michaels College in Colchester, VT and later received his master's degree from the University of Connecticut.
Leo married Eileen Mae Sullivan in 1951 and raised two sons. He began a long career as a research biochemist at Miles Laboratories in 1962 and moved his family to Elkhart, IN. During his tenure at both Miles and later at Novo Nordisk, he was responsible for many innovations including developing enzymes that facilitated the brewing of light beer.
A lifelong athlete, Leo played all sports and in his later years was a nationally ranked middle-distance runner. Leo also enjoyed singing and had a beautiful tenor voice.
Leo and Eileen retired to Florida until her passing in 1995.
Leo married Rita A. Byrne in 2000; they enjoyed the Florida sunshine, dining out, dancing and Caribbean cruises.
Leo was predeceased in death by his parents, brothers Francis and Richard, as well as Eileen and Rita.
He is survived by sons Michael of Brookline, MA and Leo P. (Nancy) of Edwards, CO; grandchildren Lauren (Eric Ng), Patrick (Rebecca Leonard), Courtney and Jennifer; and great grandchildren Charlie, Harper and Finley.
A private Memorial Service will be held at St. Thomas the Apostle church in West Springfield, MA on August 24 at 10 am.
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