Dr. Anthony R. “Slim” Leone

He was born January 22, 1924 in Fredonia, the son of the late Joseph and Laura (Ware) Leone. A lifelong resident of Fredonia, Anthony worked on the family farm until his early 20’s, and then attended the University of Buffalo School of Dentistry. Shortly after graduation he was called into the US Army, where he served in the Korean War, stationed in Verdun, France.

After serving his time, he returned to Fredonia where he married his beloved wife Diane and raised his family. While practicing dentistry he was involved in the community serving as Village Trustee and then as Mayor for one term. He was a member of the Fredonia Rotary Club, receiving the Harris award for perfect attendance for 30 years. During this time he pursued his hobbies of old car restoration, farming (for 10 years) and family camping, also receiving a patent for his invention of a portable septic tank for trailers.

After retirement from dentistry he and Diane spent 27 winters in Naples, Florida where he took an interest in pottery and participated in many art shows. His love of farming and vegetable gardening continued though his life as he enjoyed planting organic gardens every Spring. Throughout his retirement he always enjoyed his daily “coffee gatherings” with good friends.

Besides his wife Diane, he is survived by his three children, Leslie (Tim) Benjamin of Pittsford, NY, Gregg (Mimi) Leone of Reston, VA, and Scott (Sara) Leone of Camp Hill, PA; his grandchildren, Lauren Benjamin, Bryan Benjamin, Rebecca Leone, Mary Leone, and Luke Leone; sisters, Loretta Martinsson of Gaithersburg, MD and Lucille Coscarelli of Naples, FL; brother, Joseph (Rita) Leone of Naples, FL; and nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Friday June 21, at 11 a.m. in the First Baptist Church, 876 Central Ave., Dunkirk. Pastor Mark Massaro will officiate. Military Honors will be accorded by the Dunkirk Joint Veterans Council Honor Guard. Calling hours will be held Thursday June 20, from 6-8 p.m. at the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dunkirk First Baptist Church or a charity of your choice.