Gary W. Leanna

RUTLAND – Gary W. Leanna, 79, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Born and raised in Worcester, Gary was the son of George M. and Phyllis (Clarke) Leanna, and he lived the last 50 years in Rutland.

Gary was a graduate of Doherty High School in Worcester and received his machinist/toolmaker certification from Worcester Boys Trade. He was extremely hard-working and a master at his craft, working at many machine shops during his career. He retired just last year from Boston Scientific, the same company where his son Gary worked. He could be seen wearing his employee badge with pride everywhere he went.

Gary met his best friend and the love of his life, Sandra, when they were just teenagers, sweeping her off her feet at the weekly school dances. They were married on August 14th, 1965, and had two sons. Gary loved being a dad. When their sons were young, Gary enjoyed coaching their baseball and soccer teams and helped to build the Rutland Little League concession stand.

Despite his tough-guy exterior, Gary had a huge heart, especially when it came to his three beloved grandchildren who always made their Pa/Pepe smile. He enjoyed cars (especially his Camaro), going to the gym, and walking the many rescue dogs he had over the years. More than anything, Gary loved spending time with his family. He always had a coffee in hand, could sometimes be heard talking in Donald Duck’s voice, and never said no when it came time for dessert. He never lost his youthful spirit and by his actions, inspired everyone around him to be more accepting.

Besides his wife, Sandra M. (Rocheford) of Rutland, Gary will be remembered and missed by his son Dean M. Leanna and his wife, Kimberly of Sturbridge; his three grandchildren, Sydney Leanna of Sturbridge, and Kyra and Ezra Leanna of Holden; his brother George (Skip) Leanna, Jr. of Ohio; his sister, Diane Barry of Spencer; as wells as many much-loved relatives. Gary was predeceased in death by his parents; his brothers, Kevin L., Douglas B., and Mark S. Leanna; and his son, Gary J. Leanna.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Gary’s family from 3 to 5 pm on Sunday, December 17th, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. A funeral service honoring and celebrating his life will be held at 11 am on Monday, December 18th, at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Kizer Cemetery in Northborough. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Worcester Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden St., Worcester, MA 01606.

To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit his tribute wall.