Obituary: Leonard J Rigione

On May 15, 2024, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times
Leonard J. Rigione  passed away at home on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at the age of 82. Affectionately known as Lenny, or Papa to his grandkids, he proudly served in the Massachusetts Army National Guard. He retired after 20 years with veteran status.

Born in Cambridge, he was the son of the late Ralph Rigione and Celia (Repoza) Kersulis.  Lenny loved his entire extended family and enjoyed spending time with all of them. His grandchildren were the apples of his eyes. When not spending time with his family he enjoyed drawing, painting, puzzles, word searches and woodworking. He was talented with his hands, to where you could always find him tinkering with something. Lenny was a master wood craftsman who enjoyed creating new pieces that celebrated each holiday. For over 40 years, he enjoyed creating lively, and some motorized, wooden displays. Termed “Father Christmas” by the residents of Somerville, Lenny was recognized for the joy he shared with his community through his work. Particularly Christmas, which was his favorite holiday.
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Everyone around the city of Somerville looked forward to his brilliant yearly Christmas display. His house was one of the star attractions on the Somerville Illumination tours. He received many accolades in the news for his brilliant displays, ranging from newspaper stories to interviews on local news stations, including NECN and Channel 5.His work was even showcased in the bonus feature “Deck the Halls” from the film Elf. Lenny enjoyed seeing the smiles he brought to others with his displays. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. 
 
Beloved husband of 62 years to the late Yvone A. “Candy” Rigione who passed away in February 2023. Devoted step-son of the late Joseph Kersulis. Devoted father of Leonard Rigione, Jr; Hope & Raymond Parsons; Vaughn & Sally Rigione; Ralph Rigione & Marty Garcia and Kathy Rigione. Loving grandfather of Crystal, Bryant, Nathan, Ben, Jude, Jenny and deceased grandson William. Lenny was the cherished great-grandfather of Nicholas, Sadielynn and Scarlett. Dear brother of Jo-Ann Johnston and the late Harry Johnston and his late twin sister Lee Millerick. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. 
 At the family’s request Lenny’s funeral services are private. 
 
Lenny’s woodworking craft has been immortalized at the following sites:·         WCVB Channel 5 video from 2023, is located at:https://youtu.be/LmqJ_6o018o?si=pvky3O0LoHjs9PxO

·         Somerville Neighborhood News from 2018: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OI7HwY_0sRA

·         Bonus feature, “Deck the Halls”, for the New Line Home Entertainment feature film Elf (starring Will Ferrell).

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Leonard “Lenny” Rigione, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store

www.dohertyfuneralservice.com

 
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