J. Leo Legere

J. Leo Legere, 80, of Gardner, died peacefully on January 27th at Quabbin Valley Healthcare in Athol. 

Leo was born in Southbridge to Fidele J. and Louise (Babin) Legere on March 22nd, 1944. The family had immigrated from New Brunswick, Canada, and moved to Gardner after he was born. Leo attended a seminary in Hyde Park, New York, then graduated from Gardner High School in 1962, and served in the Air Force until 1967. 

He leaves his wife of 51 years, Norma (Rainey); his son, Charles, and his partner Leah; his grandsons Leon and Gabriel; and his nieces Lisa, Linda, Louise, Leanne, and their families. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Emile, and his sister Helene Lehtinen. 

Leo worked for decades as a Respiratory Therapist at the Jamaica Plain VA and other hospitals, where he especially liked being involved with pioneering procedures. At one point, he wrote a pamphlet in accessible language explaining the then-new procedure of open heart surgery.

Leo and Norma spent countless hours driving around and taking road trips, drinking coffee, and chatting. He will be remembered for his uproarious laugh, talkativeness and approachability, and unique fashion sense, including fluorescent t-shirts and suspenders.

Calling Hours will be on Saturday, February 22, from 9:30-11:30 am with a funeral at 11:30 in the Mack Funeral Home, 105 Central Street, Gardner, MA 01440. Burial will be in the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Winchendon

To leave an online condolence visit, www.mackfamilyfh.com