Jack Martin Leitao

Jack Martin Leitao, 89, of East Hartford, loving husband for over 60 years to the late Lorraine Margaret (Troy) Leitao, died with dignity with his caring family by his side on Tuesday, August 19, 2014 at his home. He was born December 1, 1924 to Antonio and Teresa (Pe¿a) Leitao who were proud Portuguese immigrants. Jack had nine siblings and was born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. For many years the Leitao family lived in Hartford in a strong ethnic community. Stories of dances at the Portuguese Club and days around Hartford High and Broad Street were often shared at family gatherings. Jack served during World War II in the Army. After his honorable discharge and return to Connecticut he met and married Lorraine in 1946. Moving to East Hartford in 1957, together they raised four sons who all remain close and close by: Ronald and his wife Louise of Manchester; Richard and his wife Joanne of Granby; Thomas and his wife Maureen of New Britain, and David of East Hartford. Jack was an extremely strong, hardworking and proud man. He was a master mechanic who could fix anything and a lifelong New York Yankees fan. He is appreciated and loved by his grandchildren: Andrew, Amber, Matthew and his wife Kelly, James and his wife Samantha, Gregory and Julia. The joy he got from his three great grand-daughters was immeasurable; Annabelle and Emily of Canton and Penny of Manchester. Besides his parents and his wife Lorraine (who died at home on February 14, 2007) he was predeceased by his siblings: Albert, Susie, Julia, Sammy, Beatrice, Alfred, Joseph and Johnny and several sisters and brothers in law. He also leaves behind to mourn, his brother Pinto, sisters in law; Grace, Carol, Annette, and Joan and several nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren and many friends from many generations. He will be remembered for his honesty, strong work ethic and in his younger days his occasional hot temper. He cared for Lorraine in her illness in the most loving and gentle way. His mark on all of his family is indelible and will continue for generations. Funeral services will be Saturday (August 23rd) at 10 am at the D'Esopo-East Hartford Memorial Chapel, 30 Carter Street, East Hartford. Burial will follow at Silver Lane Cemetery, East Hartford. Relatives and Friends may call at the funeral home chapel on Friday (August 22nd) from 4-8PM. In honor of Jack's life and his gift to others, memorial donations are requested to be made to Masonic care/Partners Hospice Palliative Care of CT, 111 Founders Plaza, East Hartford, CT 06108. For on-line expressions of sympathy to the family please visit www.desopo.com.