Leonard R. Solicito

Mr. Leonard R. Solicito, age 83, of Herkimer, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 27, 2023 in the comfort of his home.  He had the love and support of his family at his bedside, at the time of his passing.

He was born on Feb. 27, 1940 in Bronx, NY son of the late Robert(Rocco)  and Jean Solicito.  He was educated in schools including a School of Art in the Bronx. Leonard entered into the service with the US Navy, where he received an honorable discharge. He retired from Anorad (Long Island), a Robotics Engineering Company as a Manager and then moved to Florida. Leonard was an accomplished artist.  He was impressed with scenery and started by painting landscapes, horses and other wildlife while doing comic strips for a newspaper.  He had a one-man exhibit in the Nashville Pantheon Building where he sold his paintings.  In fact, Knoxville University presented six of his paintings. After moving back to NY, he continued his love for painting again, having three one man exhibits in the Pasco Arts Center, Florida.  He was commissioned to do special artwork for a local company in Florida.  He sold many paintings from his website presenting these paintings at the Beck Gallery, Land O’ Lakes, FL.  Leonard received two awards from the St. Pete Times and was named “hot shot” for the displays of his photographs.  Leonard was married to the late Joanne Jones at one time. 

Leonard loved spending time with his family. He enjoyed the outdoors, boating and going to barbecues. He will be sadly missed by those who had the honor of knowing him and his fun loving and caring personality. 

His marriage to the former Geraldine Paolillo took place on Aug. 31, 1995 in Las Vegas, whom he shared a union of 28 years with and she lives in Herkimer.  He was predeceased by his oldest daughter, Janie Snow.  Survivors include his daughter, Joy Solicito Presta and her husband Dennis of Herkimer, step son, Frank Caracciolo of Brooklyn, step son, Christopher Caracciolo of Brooklyn, NY, his daughter, Janine Phillips and husband David of Herkimer, and daughter, Jeana Giacobbe of Little Falls; his only great grandchild, Hunter Reid; his grandchildren, Jennifer Reid and husband Thomas of Little Falls, John Leonard Pape and wife Amanda of Binghamton, Anthony Giordano and wife Jolene of Troy, Ali Rose Giordano of Herkimer, Luca and Vincent Caracciolo of Montreal, Matthew and James Giacobbe of Little Falls.  Leonard also leaves a brother, Anthony Solicito and wife Maryann of New Hyde Park and many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

The family would like to offer their gratitude to the staff of Hospice Care, Inc., the Veterans Administration and Bassett Healthcare, for all of their care and compassion. Also, a heartfelt thank you to all the many relatives, friends and neighbors for their kindness and support during this difficult time.

As per Leonard’s wishes there will be no calling hours.  Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to his memorial Mass of Christian Burial to be held at St. Anthony’s and Joseph Church, S. Main St., Herkimer on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023 at 10 am with the Rev. Thomas Babiuch, pastor, officiating.  Following the service, military honors will be offered by the US Navy.  Burial will be private.  All are invited following the church service to the home of Leonard’s daughter and son in law, Joy and Dennis Presta.

Please consider a memorial contribution in his name to the Wounded Warrior Project, 370 7th Ave suite 1802, New York, NY 10001.

The family has placed Leonard's cremation arrangements under the direction and care of the locally owned and operated Mohawk Valley Funerals and Cremations, 7507 State Route 5, between Little Falls and St. Johnsville, 315-508-5131.