Joseph Leitao

Joseph was born in Ericeira, Portugal on Jan. 19, 1925, the son of Alipio Franco and Maria Clara (Cindeira) Leitao.

Joseph was predeceased by his wife of 61years Ernestina and is survived by his children, Teresa Randolph and her spouse Ronald of Oakdale and Joseph Leitao Jr. and his spouse Julian of Tampa, Florida, his grandchildren Arthur (Jasmyne) Mador of Rhode Island, Jason (Jennifer) Leitao of Florida and Jenna (Paul) Bullard of Florida, 3 great grandchildren, Hayden Leitao, Beau, and Olivia Bullard and his dear friend of many years Peter Andrews of Florida.

In addition to his wife Ernestina, Joseph was predeceased by his brothers Antonio and Alipo, and his sister Sophia.

While living in Connecticut Mr. Leitao was a Developer in Montville. Together with his wife he owned and operated Leitao Builders and developed Indianfield Campground on Gardner Lake in Salem.

Joe, as his friends called him, was well known to his friends and family for his kindness and love of painting, antiques and all things nautical. He was a 32nd Degree Mason and a member of the Sphinx Shrine Club in Hartford. He was also an avid collector of old cars and antiques. Retiring to Englewood Florida Joseph enjoyed spending time on the water and painting, which became his passion.

Joseph was deeply loved and will be missed by his family and friends. A Funeral Service will be held Friday, October 28, 2016 at the Church and Allen Funeral Home in Norwich at 7 pm. A calling hour will be held one hour prior from 6pm to 7pm. A private burial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Shriners Children’s Hospital, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa FL 33607.

To leave a message of condolence for the Leitao family, please visit www.churchandallen.com.

The Church and Allen Funeral Home, 136 Sachem St. Norwich, is entrusted with arrangements.