Leo J. Issa

Leo J. Issa, 87, of Avon, passed away peacefully Dec. 27, 2015. He was the husband of Janet (Powers) Issa; beloved father of Janice Issa Wright and her husband Kim Wright of Greer, South Carolina and JoAnn and her husband Brian Barthelmes of Hanover; loving grandfather of John and Lauren Barthelmes; dear friend of Carlene Rosenquist; son of the late Daher and Salami (Germanos) Issa, brother of the late N. James, Emily Catrambone, Amain, Ficle and Fred; he leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Born in Brockton, Mr. Issa started his young adult life serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He was stationed on the USS Samuel B Roberts DD-823, where has was a plank owner. Later he worked as a matre d in hotels traveling to Florida, Vermont and New Hampshire before settling in Avon. His entrepreneurial spirit lead him to own several businesses including The Pancake House and the Helo Stand. He became a respected real estate developer and was instrumental in the development of the Avon Industrial Park. He served the town of Avon as selectman, assessor and chairman of the Finance Committee. He was most proud of his Lebanese heritage and was the founder of the Lebanese Humanitarian and Benevolent Society of America. Mr. Issa worked with Senator Ted Kennedy and Secretary Henry Kissinger to bring several families from Lebanon to the U.S. for temporary safe haven in 1976 during the Civil War in Lebanon. His efforts served as the foundation for the Refugee Act of 1980 sponsored by Senator Kennedy. He was also involved with Governor Michael Dukakis in establishing the Good Fence policy between Israel and Lebanon. Leo had a passion for politics, compassion for those less fortunate and the fortitude to make a difference. Leo will be remembered as a humanitarian with a heart of gold. He was happiest when he was helping others, working on his land or sharing stories with friends. All are welcome to calling hours Wednesday 4-8 p.m. with an incense service at 6 p.m.in Waitt Funeral Chapel at Waitt Funeral Home, 850 North Main St., Brockton, funeral from Waitt Funeral Home Thursday at 9 a.m., 10 a.m. Service of the Divine Liturgy celebrated in St. Theresa Maronite Catholic Church, 343 North Main St., and burial at Calvary Cemetery. Visit www.waittfuneralhome.com or call 508-583-7272.