GLENS FALLS – Bernard “Bernie” Leonka, 88, formerly of Glens Falls, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 17, 2024, at the Washington Center in Argyle, with his family by his side.
Born on April 4, 1935, in Schenectady, he was the only child of the late August J. and Philomena L. (Benacquista) Leonka.
Bernie was a graduate of Knott Terrace High School, formerly in Schenectady and then continued his education taking classes toward earning a degree in Physical Therapy.
Following college, he joined the United States Army. Bernie was proud to have served his country. After his honorable discharge in January 1957, Bernie began his long and diverse work history.
After 32 years of working for General Electric in Fort Edward, he retired as business manager. While employed at GE, Bernie held a second job as a bartender for over 20 years. He loved tending bar at the Saratoga Flat Track but even better at the Saratoga Harness Track. It was the perfect job for Bernie, he could watch the horses and place his bets. His final and favorite job for over 12 years was driving the school bus for Abraham Wing School. Bernie cherished the many field trips and the responsibility he had for making sure the kids were safe.
He was an avid Yankee and Giants fan. For many years, Bernie took his kids to the Giants training camp to watch his favorite team get ready for the season. He also followed the Duke Basketball team, always rooting for them to win.
For several years, Bernie coached little league while his younger son, Greg was on the team. He also had fond memories of spending many summers camping with his family in Maine.
Survivors include his four children, Christopher (Michele) Leonka of Queensbury, Lisa Leonka of Troy, Bernice (John) Cote of Glens Falls, and Gregg (Billi Jo) Leonka of NC; his grandchildren, Brendan Leonka, Brittany Nikas, Jessica Carey, Kaleigh Stoya, John Cote, and Abigail Leonka; his great grandchildren, Tenley and Macey Leonka, Calla and Burkley Nikas, John Carey and Wells Stoya.
Calling hours will be private.
The Rite of Committal will be Thursday, March 21, 2024, at 2:30 pm at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road in Schuylerville.
Bernie’s family would like to thank the staff at the Washington Center in Argyle for the care and compassion they provided Bernie during his stay. A special thank you to the staff on the Hillview South Unit, the Activities Department, and Physical Therapy.
The family suggests that memorial donations be made to the Moreau Rescue Squad, 1583 US-9, Fort Edward, NY 12828.
Sending sincere sympathy for your loss to all of the Leonka family
I love you him and you guys. So sorry.
Jenn DeVivo- Baptiste & Family
Sending all the love and sympathy to the family! Bern “berndog” will forever hold a special spot in my heart..to such a beautiful family I’m so sorry for your loss ❤️
Bernice,
So sorry to hear about your dad. Sending love and sympathy to you and your family. Thinking of you all. If you need anything, we’re just a few steps away.
The Robbins’
Peace be with you and your family . Bernie was a great friend to my father Ed Ryan. Our family has very fond memories with Bernie. May peace fill your hearts.
thoughts and prayers for the Leonka family,
sincerely,
the Ogden family (former neighbors)
I always looked forward to seeing and enjoying a visit with Bernie in our neighborhood. Many good memories. So very sorry for your loss. My sympathy to all of you.
Chris- Greg – & – Girls –
Hope you guys remember me from back in the day. Really sorry to hear about your Dad. We worked together for a long time but our best memories were outside of GE. I watched Greg play little league before my boys were even born.
Your Dad & I played softball for many years, went to Albany every year when the basketball sectionals were held down there.
Remember the parties in the backyard? He was a Good man
and loved his family. Unfortunately haven’t seen him in awhile but will always remember him.
Our prayers are with your family
Bernie and I had some great times betting the horses at Saratoga harness and the flat track was always good for laugh and many interesting years at GE you will be missed my friend
My husband Bill & Bernie had a long association at GE. Bill always
spoke of him with respect…of course it didn’t hurt they were both
avid Yankee & Giants fans.
Wishing the family warm memories and sending comforting
thoughts.