Leonard Introna

Leonard Introna, Sr., 96, of Pompton Plains and formerly of Palisades Park, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, September 23, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Molfetta, Italy, Leonard was the second of three children born to Mauroantonio and Giovania Introna. At the age of seven, he and his family embarked on a new life in America, arriving through Ellis Island. From there, Leonard went on to embody the American dream.
He grew up in Hoboken, where he began his working life in the bustling garment industry as a coat presser. It was there that he met Maria Cereso, the love of his life. They married in 1954, but soon after their honeymoon, Leonard faced an unexpected change when the factory closed. This turn of events led him to join his brother Lawrence in opening Introna's Food Market in Palisades Park, marking the beginning of a new chapter.
Leonard and Maria built their life close to the market, welcoming their son, Leonard Jr., shortly after. Though Leonard worked tirelessly to grow the business, family was always his top priority. In 1988, anticipating the arrival of his twin granddaughters, he retired to dedicate more time to his growing family.
As a grandfather, Leonard cherished every moment. He was a constant presence in his grandchildren's lives, never missing a game, always there to pick them up from school, and often preparing his signature Italian meals. His joy only deepened when his granddaughter had two sons of her own, bringing him the immense pride of being a great-grandfather.
Known for his quiet demeanor and patient nature, Leonard was a man of few words but abundant love. He had a fondness for Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, spent afternoons watching Yankees games or golf, and closely followed the stock market, keeping CNBC on to track his investments with the same care he gave to his family.
Leonard's legacy is one of dedication, love, and devotion to those he held dear. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He is lovingly survived by his son, Leonard Jr. and his wife Margaret; his grandchildren, Kelsey Introna, Keegan Pepe and her husband Anthony, and Leonard Introna; his brother and business partner, Lawrence Introna; and his great-grandchildren, Carson and Bennet Pepe.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Maria; his sister, Angelina Messina and her husband Charles, and his sister-in-law, Emma.
Visitation will be held Thursday from 4-8 pm at Scanlan's. A funeral Mass will be held 10 am Friday at Our Lady of Good Counsel RC Church, Pompton Plains. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Leonard's memory to Camp Nejeda, P.O. BOX 156, Stillwater, NJ 07875 whose mission is "to enhance the lives of people with Type 1 Diabetes and their families through education, empowerment, camaraderie, supportive programs and fun" or Grace Hospice, 105 Fieldcrest Avenue #402, Edison, NJ 08857 would be greatly appreciated by his family.