Leonard A. Lee

Leonard A. Lee, affectionately known as Lenny, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2025, after a valiant fight against lung cancer.
Born on April 20, 1964, in Hackensack, New Jersey, he was a lifelong resident of the town he loved. He died with his wife at his side in Hackensack, NJ. Lenny's early life in West New York was marked by his academic and athletic endeavors. He attended Public School Number 2 and later became a proud graduate of Memorial High School's class of 1983. As a testament to his passion and skill, he was a standout football player for his school team, proudly donning jersey number 7. His leadership and team spirit on the field were early indicators of the loving, kind, and thoughtful man he would become.
After high school, Lenny dedicated himself to serving his country, becoming a U.S. Army Veteran. His commitment to service continued in his civilian career as an Operation Supervisor at the Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission, where he worked for 21 years. His colleagues will remember him not only for his dedication to his job but also for his ability to uplift and support those around him. Lenny's life was rich with love and family.
He is survived by his adoring wife, Nicole DeFino-Lee, and his cherished daughter, Isabella V. Lee. His legacy of love extends to his brother, Kenneth Lee, his sister-in-law, LaDisha Lee, and his nephews and niece, Amir Lee, Davon Lee, Malia Lee, Darius Lozado, Aaron Lozado, Tamia DeFino, and Krista DeFino. Lenny'sr memory will be a treasure to his sister-in-law, Sunilda G. Martinez, her husband Louis Martinez, niece Vanessa Perez, and nephew Louis J. Martinez. His family was the cornerstone of his life, and his unwavering support and affection were the glue that held them together.
Predeceased by his parents, Leonard A. Lee and Vera Lee, as well as his mother and father-in-law, Mayor Anthony M. DeFino and Patricia M. DeFino.
Outside of work and family, Lenny was a passionate sports enthusiast. He was a lifelong and dedicated Raiders and Yankee fan. His love for the games was infectious, and his knowledge of sports history and statistics was impressive. He could often be found cheering on his teams, celebrating their victories, and standing by them in defeat. The words that best describe Lenny are loving, kind, and thoughtful. He approached life with a warm heart and a generous spirit. His presence was a source of comfort and strength to all who knew him. Lenny had the rare ability to make each person he met feel valued and heard, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives. As we bid farewell to Lenny, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of purpose, love, and laughter. His spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him. Lenny's story is not one of sorrow but a beautiful narrative of a man who gave his all in every aspect of life. Lenny's journey through life was a testament to the power of resilience, love, and kindness. As we remember him, let us carry forward the lessons he taught through his actions and the love he shared. Leonard A. Lee will be deeply missed, but his legacy will endure in the hearts and memories of all who loved him.
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