Leonard J. Zidel

Leonard J. Zidel, 95, of Hyde Park, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at his home.

Born on April 6, 1930, in Flushing, Queens, New York, Leonard was the son of the late Lloyd Joseph Zidel and Katherine Misch Zidel.

Leonard was a proud Life Member of the West Clinton Fire Department, where he served in many roles including Fire Police.

Professionally, Leonard worked for many years as a statistician with Empire Blue Cross / Blue Shield. After retiring Leonard went back to work, working various jobs to stay busy.

In his free time Leonard found great joy in woodworking and carpentry. He was also an avid baker, well known for his pies, and enjoyed model building, especially trains and ships. In his younger years, he participated in bowling leagues, and later in life, he cherished simple pleasures like ending the evening watching Family Feud with loved ones.

On May 3, 1958, at St. Marys Church in Queens, he married the former Martha Ann Cleator, Mrs. Zidel passed away on Jul 3rd, 2006.

Leonard is survived by his two children; daughter Laura of Hyde Park; son Kevin of Talkeetna, Alaska; his granddaughters, Victoria and Erica; his great-grandsons, Matthew and Jordan, and Jordan's fiancée, Kristen Bolettieri; and his great-great-grandson, Kai Joseph Decker.

He is also survived by his four legged companion, GIGI.

Along with his parents he was predeceased by his brother, Joseph Zidel; his sister, Florence Palermo.

Calling hours will be from 4PM to 7PM on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Sweet's Funeral Home, 4365 Albany Post Rd. Hyde Park, NY 12538.

A service will take place at 5:30pm at the funeral home.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet's Funeral Home, Inc., Route 9, Hyde Park. To send an online condolence or for directions, please visit www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.