Bruno N. Leonardi

Harwinton ̶ With a heavy heart we say farewell to our dear father, Bruno Natale Leonardi, age 92, who entered into eternal rest on October 14, 2023. He was the beloved husband of Edith (Busher) Leonardi for 66 years. Born in Norgarole, Veneto, Italy, the son of the late Davide “Pietro” and Brigida Leonardi, he immigrated to the United States through Ellis Island in December 1936. His Italian heritage was a great source of pride and helped to shape who he was. He had a saying, “There are only two nationalities; Italians and people who wish they were!” It was then followed by his signature, infectious laugh that people knew him for and loved.

Bruno was a master carpenter. He began his love of carpentry at the age of 12, working for Bonvicini Building Company. His career continued while attending Oliver Wolcott Technical School where he held the titles of class president and class clown. His expertise in construction was unsurpassed, having built hundreds of quality homes in Torrington, CT and the surrounding area.

He was a member of the United States Naval Construction Battalions, “Seabees” during the Korean War. His service did not end after his honorable discharge: Bruno was a Cub Scout master for Pack 36 for many years, a member of UNICO, a member of the Blizzard Lizards snowmobile club, and an usher at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Harwinton. Bruno spent many winters snowmobiling with his family and friends in MA and NY. In his later years, his winters were spent at his home in Naples, FL, enjoying the beach with his family and grandchildren. He also enjoyed his weekend retreat in West Dover, VT, which was a labor of love for his entire family to enjoy.

In addition to his wife Edith, Bruno is survived by his two sons, Bruno Jr. and Michael, his daughter, Linda (Bradley) Charron, and two grandchildren, Eric (Tanisha) Charron and Brandon Charron. He is predeceased by his parents and sister, Gina (Dowd). As Bruno would say, “Va piano, va sano, e va lontano.” (Go softly, go safely, and go far.)

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in his honor to: The Harwinton Ambulance Association, 166 Burlington RD, Harwinton, CT 06791 OR Navy Seabee Veterans of America, Island X1, 82 West ST, Goshen, CT 06756.  Services are at the convenience of the family.  Online memorials www.phalenfuneral.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bruno N. Leonardi, please visit our floral store.