Leo C. Foran

Leo C. Foran, 86, of Fairless Hills, PA passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 24, 2016 at St. Mary Medical Center. He leaves behind his loving wife of fifty-four years, Bernice (nee Ward) Foran, his son Michael (Lisa) Foran, and grandson, Ryan. Born and raised in Lambertville, NJ, he was the son of the late Edward and Anna (Casey) Foran, and was the youngest of their seven children. He was preceded in death by his six siblings, Mary, James, Edward, Gerald, Anne and John. Leo graduated from St. John Grammar's School in Lambertville, NJ and Trenton Catholic High School in Trenton. He followed in his father's and brother's footsteps, volunteering as a fireman for the Hibernian Fire Company. He then enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served on the destroyer class USS Everett F. Larson DDR-830 during the Korean War between 1948 and 1952. During his time in the Navy, Leo proudly served his country in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and also in Haifa, Palestine, aiding the Greek's against a communist uprising. Leo's ship was granted a tour of St. Peter Basilica, during which Leo had an audience with Pope Pius XII. He had the honor of a second audience with Pius XII in 1952 at the Sistine Chapel, an experience Leo recalled as having been the best memory of his naval career. Upon returning home, Leo worked Bingo at the Hibernian Fire Company where he met Bernie, the love of his life. In 1961 they were married at St. Magdelene's Church in Flemington, NJ. The couple moved to Fairless Hills and joined St. Frances Cabrini parish, were they would be active parishioners for over fifty years. Leo volunteered tirelessly as an usher at the parish and was a member of the Third Degree of the Knights of Columbus, St. Joseph the Worker Council #4215 and the St. John Neumann Assembly. He was also a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #7912 and the American Legion Post #120 both in Lambertville. As a members of the Seniors Club at St. Frances Cabrini, Leo and Bernice took countless trips with friends and spent many nights playing Bingo. In 1991, at age 62, Leo traveled with his son, Michael, nephew, Gerald "Gerry", and great nephew, Gerald III to the Appalachian Trail, a trip he had always wanted to make. An avid outdoorsman, Leo enjoyed going deep sea fishing with his fishing club buddies. He also kept his vegetable garden and flower garden in pristine condition, taking great pride in his work. But more so than his love for the outdoors, his love for reading made sure a book was always in his hands and he was always expanding his library. When he wasn't reading and gardening, Leo was a die hard Phillies fan, watching and attending their games no matter how well or poorly they were doing that season. Leo worked at the US Steel Mill in the sheet and tin division for thirty-three years, after which he began working at the Pennsbury School district for another twelve years. Always proud of his son and grandson, he was grateful to be able to see his grandson become an Eagle Scout in 2013 and graduate from high school in 2015, continuing on to college like his father. He leaves behind countless nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, friends and neighbors of four decades. Remembered for his soft spoken manner and level headed temperament, he will be forever missed. Family and friends are invited to call Monday from 6 until 9 p.m. and Tuesday from 8 until 9 a.m. at the James J. Dougherty Funeral Home, Inc., 2200 Trenton Rd., Levittown. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. at St. Frances Cabrini Church followed by Rite of Committal at St. John the Evangelist Cemetery in Lambertville. In lieu of flowers, mass cards or memorial contributions to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675 would be appreciated.