Obituary: Leonard Briselli, of Canonsburg

Leonard Briselli, 83, of Canonsburg, on Jan. 5, 2013 in Washington Hospital. He was born on Oct. 21, 1929, a son of the late Pietro and Brigida (Bertoni) Briselli.

After Mr. Briselli graduated from Cecil Township High School in 1947, he joined the Navy and served tours in Asia and Europe. During the Korean War, he served an extended tour on a destroyer, the USS English, and saw seven months of action, receiving the United Nations Service Ribbon and Korean Service Medal.

Following his naval career, he worked at Universal Cyclops, Dreon Lumber, and Silhol Builders Supply until his retirement in 1995.

He followed Pittsburgh sports, was an avid card player, and traveled extensively to warmer climates for winter vacations—especially on cruises, which reminded him of his days in the Navy.

On Aug. 23, 1958, he married Mary Anne Stankus, who survives. Mr. Briselli leaves behind his devoted sister-in-law, Dorothy Briselli; his nephew, Stephen Briselli; his brother-in-law, John Stankus; his beloved cat, Pookie; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, of whom he was very proud.

He was preceded in death by three brothers: Baptista, Secondo, and Vincent Briselli; and two sisters, Graziotto and Olivia Adair. He was the last surviving sibling.

Services are entrusted to Beinhauer. Friends are welcome at 2820 Washington Road, McMurray (724-941-3211) from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday in St. Mary’s Church, Cecil. Entombment will be in Queen of Heaven Cemetery.

To add and view tributes at www.beinhauer.com.