Obituary of Leonard F. Cavaretta, Jr.

FRANKFORT – Leonard F. “Lenny” Cavaretta, Jr., age 73, a beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away after a brief illness on Thursday morning, February 25, 2021. His passing occurred at the MVHS St. Elizabeth Campus with his devoted wife, Carol, at his bedside. Born on November 15, 1947, Leonard was the son of the late Leonard F. Cavaretta, Sr. and Flora (Frank) Cavaretta. He was raised and educated in Rome, graduating from Rome Free Academy with the Class of 1965. He then went on to further his education at the Utica School of Automation and at Herkimer County Community College where he earned a degree in Criminal Justice. On August 10, 1967, Lenny was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served his country during the Vietnam years. He received his honorable discharge on June 6, 1969 and remained a true patriot and proud American for the rest of his life. Leonard was wed to the love of his life, the former Carol Licari, on February 22, 1969 at St. Mary’s Church in Frankfort. Together, Lenny and Carol shared in a blessed and committed marriage, celebrating fifty-two years together this past Monday. For over thirty years, Lenny worked in various positions at the Union Fork & Hoe Company in Frankfort. After his retirement, he went into business for himself, establishing the Schuyler Exchange & Archery on the four corners in Schuyler; a venture that he was proud to operate for almost fifteen years. Lenny’s interest and skill in archery was a passion that he carried with him for most of his life. He was a member of the Ilion Fish and Game, East Herkimer Fish and Game and former Frankfort Fish and Game clubs. He was a certified archery instructor, as well as an avid sportsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. Not only did he pass along these interests to each of his three sons, but it became their common bond and led to the creation of many lasting memories. Family always came first for Lenny and as his sons grew, he was always the first one involved in their interests and sporting events. He coached baseball and wrestling for all of his sons and their friends over the years and was integral in the creation of the Frankfort Youth Association. He was also involved in boy scouts, specifically in the design of the archery scout field which was a requirement for the Archery Merit Badge. Aside from the many activities of his sons, Lenny was also involved within his community. He served on the Frankfort-Schuyler school board, held life membership with the Frankfort VFW and was a member and Past Commander of the Ilion Moose Club. Lenny will always be remembered for his witty jokes, quirkiness and all around happy-go-lucky attitude. He had a great sense of humor and the laughter shared with his beloved family and friends will be his lasting legacy. He is survived by his beloved wife, Carol; his three sons, Leonard F. Cavaretta, III and fiancé, Krista Paulsen of Frankfort, Jeremy Cavaretta and wife, Andrea, of Averill Park, NY and Justin Cavaretta and girlfriend, Sarah Decker, of Frankfort; and his grandchildren, whom he absolutely adored, Veronica, Victoria, Arianna, Gabriella and Dominick. He also leaves his sisters and brothers-in-law, Sandra and Kerry Klingmeyer and Joanne and George Senus, all of Florida; his in-laws, Benny Licari, Joey Licari and Michael Bird; one uncle, Sam Licari; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, with mention of a special cousin, Ronnie Cavaretta; and countless friends, especially Donny Miles, Donny Farouche and David and Donna Calandra. He was predeceased by his parents; his infant son, Leonard; his sister, Roselyn Bird; and his nephew and Godson, Tommy Bird. A special thank you is extended to the doctors and staff of CNY Cardiology as well as to Dr. Christina Aranda for her personal friendship and concern shown to Lenny throughout his illness. Friends and relatives are invited to attend visitation on Monday afternoon, March 1, 2021 from 4:00PM – 6:00PM at the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Town of Frankfort, Ilion, NY (315) 894-8000. Leonard’s funeral service will commence on Tuesday morning, March 2, 2021 at 9:45AM at the funeral home and at 10:30AM at Our Lady Queen of Apostles Church in Frankfort where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Paul Catena, Pastor. Due to current health restrictions, masks and social distancing will be required at both the funeral home and church. Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding. The Cavaretta family has entrusted the care of their beloved husband and father to Martin L. Ciaccia and Harry and Kevin Enea, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.