Leonard T. Daley ’44

Leonard T. Daley, 96, passed away peacefully with his loving wife, Patricia, at his side on Saturday, July 3, 2021. Leonard was born in Lewiston on March 31, 1925, son of Teresa (Driscoll) Daley.

Leonard was in the 3rd Maine Maritime Academy class, graduating in 1944 prior to entering the US Merchant Marines where he served until 1947. He participated in the Atlantic, Mediterranean and Pacific Theaters during WWII. Leonard retired from the US Navy Reserves achieving the rank of Commander. He was re-called to active duty from 1968-70 as Chief Administrative Officer for the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, which gave him the distinction of serving in both WWII and during the Vietnam War. He earned a Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of California Berkeley, 1954 and retired after 40 years with General Electric.

Throughout his life, Leonard maintained his chief engineer license which enabled him, at the age of 75, to become the engineer on the H.M.S. Rose sailing vessel. He held the position of President for the following: American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers, Reserve Officers Association California Chapter, Navy League New York, Naval Reserve Association, and the Portland Marine Society.

In addition to sharing his adventures and experiences of his fascinating and full life with all who met him, he thoroughly enjoyed painting, was an avid reader, travelled the world, and danced with his lovely wife every opportunity he had. His pride and joy was that he designed and constructed his home on Sabbathday Lake.

Surviving are his beloved wife, Patricia Parent Daley; Children: Brian Daley and his wife Michelle, Gregory Daley and partner Lisa, Colleen Daley and her partner Steven, Vincent Rossignol and his wife Jennifer, Michael Rossignol, David Rossignol and his wife Terri, Tricia Giard and her husband John; Nine Grandchildren: Erika, Andrea, and Christa Daley, Ashley Hughes, Maxwell and Morgan Giard, Zackary and Renee Rossignol, and Lucy Rossignol. His brother Thomas Daley, Godson Peter Conley, and cousin Helen D. Hooser and many nieces and nephews.

Leonard was predeceased by his mother, Teresa Daley and his first wife, Rose Ortiz Daley.

Visitation 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Pinette Dillingham & Lynch Funeral Home 305 Alfred Plourde Parkway Lewiston.

A Celebration of Life Service for Leonard will immediately follow at 2 p.m.

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared with Leonard’s family at https://www.lynchbrothers.com/