LEICESTER: Leonard S. “Lenny” Gabrila 65, of Pine St., died suddenly, Saturday, June 18 at UMASS Memorial Medical Center in Worcester surrounded by his loving family.
He leaves his wife Mary M. (Polissack) Gabrila, they would have celebrated their 40th. wedding anniversary in September. Not only man and wife, but the two were true companions and best friends. Along with his wife, he leaves two daughters Amy M. Gabrila of E.Windsor, Ct. and Emily L. Arguin of Leicester, two brothers Michael Gabrila and Joseph Gabrila and his wife Nancy, his mother in law Margaret Polissack all of Worcester, several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by a brother Richard “Skipper” Gabrila and an infant son Steven Gabrila who greeted him in the “Gates of Heaven” with open arms.
Lenny was a spectacular father who was extremely involved with all of his children’s activities. He was also their #1 fan!
Born in Worcester, he was the son of Leonardi and Hope (Capen) Gabrila, and later graduated from North High School in Worcester, he then attended Peru State College, Peru, Neb.
Lenny worked as a part time Campus Police Officer at the College of the Holy Cross for the past five years and also as a Safety Patrol Officer for the Advanced Science and Math Academy in Marlboro. He also worked for many years at Washington Heights in Worcester, and previously was Manager of the State Dept. of Industrial Accidents in Worcester and Lawrence. He later was a Campus Police Officer at Worcester State Hospital. He was one of the oldest graduates ever from the Special State Police Academy in New Braintree.
Lenny was first elected to the Leicester Planning Board as a young man and later served several years on the Board of Selectman as well as working on numerous Town projects. He was a current Leicester Water District Commissioner, and Registrar of Voters.
Lenny was a caring man who loved to spend time with people of all ages, especially seniors and children and was known for his love of animals. He touched many lives during his time here on earth. He lived life to the fullest, always on the go, making the most of every minute of his life. His “special friends” (cats) Archer, Sunshine, Simon and Randy will always have a place for him in their hearts. Most of all, he will be missed by his canine companion and best friend Bubba.
The family would like to thank the incredible staff of the UMASS Memorial Neural Intensive Care Unit. Especially Nancy, Bridget, Julia and Betsey, who were wonderfully caring and compassionate to Lenny and his family. The family would also like to thank their wonderful neighbors and other members of the community. He will be in the hearts of many co- workers, colleagues and friends.
The funeral for Lenny, will be held on Thursday, June 23 from the MORRISON-MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 1131 Main St., Leicester with a Mass at 10 am. in St. Pius X Church, 1153 Main St., Leicester. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, Leicester. Calling hours are Wednesday, June 22 from 4 to 7p.m.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Brain Aneurysm Foundation, 269 Hanover St., Bldg. 3, Hanover, Ma. 02339 or donate on line to www.bafound.org/donate