Leonard F. Battista, age 91, passed away December 7, 2016 at his home in Mentor, Ohio surrounded by his family.  He was born on November 16, 1925, in Painesville son of Joseph and Mary Battista.  He and his loving wife Irene (Shula), celebrated 69 years of a wonderful marriage in June.  He is survived by his wife Irene, loving father of Karen (Chuck) Roman, and Kim (Al) Kozak. He was a devoted grandfather of Jeff (Shelly) Roman, Jennifer Roman, Julie (Ryan) Plescia, Adam (Bobbie) Newsome, Kelly (Grant) Brodahl, and Jessica Roman.  He enjoyed playing with all of his great grandchildren, Joshua Roman, Olivia Roman, Jack Roman, Noah Roman, Roman Seghetti, Sam DiMartino, Gianna Plescia, Adriana Plescia, Aubrey Newsome, Angie Newsome, and Ava Newsome. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law Don and Jim Shula, sister-in-law, Jeannette Moroz and many nieces and nephews.  Mr. Battista was preceded in death by the loss of his daughter Becky Battista (Newsome) and infant son Gary, as well as brothers John, Felix, Frank, Tony, and sisters Catherine, Mary, and Mayme.

Mr. Battista served in the United States Navy during World War II in the Pacific Theater.  He was employed by Diamond Shamrock for 33 years until its closing and retired following 10 years working with the Willoughby-Eastlake School District in their maintenance department.  He and his wife were founding members of St. Bede the Venerable Parish.

Mr. Battista enjoyed spending time with his wife, grandchildren and great grandchildren.  He loved working in the yard, as well as helping his children with their home projects.  He was a kind, gentle man who always took time to help anyone in need.  He also enjoyed all of his pets, especially his dog Happy.

A funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday, December 13, 2016, at 11:30 a.m. at St. Bede the Venerable Parish, 9114 Lakeshore Blvd, Mentor, Ohio.  Friends may visit in the small chapel of the church from 10:30-11:15 a.m.  A lunch will be held in the Father Tulley Center at the Church following the Mass.  A private burial for family members will take place at St. Mary's Cemetery in Painesville

The Battista Family would like to acknowledge the Hospice of the Cleveland Clinic, nurses and aides for the wonderful care given Mr. Battista during his illness.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Hospice of Cleveland Clinic, 6801 Brecksville Rd. #10, Cleveland, Ohio 44131 or St. Bede the Venerable Parish, 9114 Lakeshore Blvd, Mentor, Ohio 44060.