Susan Leonka

Susan Arlene Urbanik Leonka, 74, of Wethersfield, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, at Hartford Hospital after a long and courageous journey with her health. Born on July 1, 1951, in Hartford, Susan was the beloved daughter of the late Sophie Fonfara Urbanik and Anthony "Tony" Urbanik. She proudly shared a birthday with Princess Diana - a detail she cherished her entire life. Susan grew up in Old Wethersfield and attended Wethersfield Public Schools, graduating from Wethersfield High School. She worked for many years at Aetna in Hartford before retiring and embracing her most cherished role as a full-time mother. An active and passionate community member, Susan served as a member of the Wethersfield Democratic Town Committee, treasurer of the Wethersfield Young Democrats when the organization first began, and was involved in both the Democratic Social Club and Dance Polonaise. She cared deeply about civic engagement, tradition, and making her community stronger. Susan had a deep appreciation for life's simple joys. She loved spending time at the ocean during annual beach vacations, exploring local craft fairs, and creating handmade crafts - either at home or with friends at the community center. She was known for her love of cooking, always preparing sweet treats or traditional Polish dishes to share with those she loved. The holidays were never complete without something homemade from Susan's kitchen. Those who knew her would describe her as sweet, funny, and someone who always knew the right way to do things. Her quiet wisdom, steady presence, and boundless love left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She was deeply devoted to her family, friends, and especially her pets. A lifelong animal lover, Susan often said she wanted "every single dog." She is survived by her two adored pups - Coco Chanel, an 11-year-old Shih Tzu, and Riley Elizabeth, a 5-year-old Pembroke Welsh Corgi - both of whom brought her endless joy and comfort. Susan is survived by her loving husband, Mark Leonka, and her devoted daughter, Kristin Leonka, as well as her brother George Urbanik, sister Joan Urbanik Veilleux, and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends. A wake and visitation will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Farley-Sullivan Funeral Home, 34 Beaver Road, Wethersfield, CT. A Mass of Catholic Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. James Church, 767 Elm Street, Rocky Hill, CT. In lieu of flowers, donations in Susan's memory may be made to the National Kidney Foundation or to the ASPCA, two causes close to her heart. Susan's warmth, love, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed.