Leo Joseph Gradel

Leo Joseph Gradel (age 90) passed away on Tuesday, December 30th, 2025, surrounded by his family. Leo lived a long, productive, and meaningful life. He is survived by his wife Madelyn Gradel, his daughters Gina Phinney, Patricia Gradel, and Diane Loza, his son Christopher Gradel, his brother Hubert Gradel and sister Lucille Gray, in addition to nine grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Leo was born and raised in the Holmesburg neighborhood of Philadelphia as the youngest of eight. He was close with his family, especially his brother Hubert. Leo was a very active youth and enjoyed many hobbies including waterskiing, riding horses, and swimming. He also liked listening to Big Band music. This love of music inspired him to learn to play the clarinet.

He enlisted in the army in May 1958 and served with the 101st airborne division until May 1964. He received the Parachutist badge and a good conduct medal during his career. After his service in the military, he began his 40-year career with the railroad. His brother worked for the Pennsylvania railroad as well as his father and grandfather. He began his career as a mechanic and ended as a foreman. After he retired, Leo drove a shuttle for Fox Chase Cancer Center, which he thoroughly enjoyed.

Leo met his wife, Madelyn, in 1961 through his brother-in-law Charles Bihler who worked with Madelyn at National Drug in Philadelphia. They fell in love and were married a year later, eventually settling in Fox Chase, Philadelphia where they raised their 5 children.

Leo was an active father and was often seen cheering at his children’s softball, baseball, and football games (and even a few cheer competitions). He was a coach for several teams with Fox-Roc Athletic Association. He loved sports, especially his Philadelphia Eagles — Go Birds! He was lucky enough to see his team win TWO Super bowls which meant a great deal to him.

As his family grew, they scattered across the country. He was not much of a traveler but would visit his daughters as they moved around. He traveled to California, Kentucky, Louisiana, Texas, and Florida. But his favorite trip was driving with his grandchildren cross-county from Louisiana to California. It was a beautiful scenic drive that he would never forget.

After his retirement, he moved to South Florida and continued his active lifestyle. He enjoyed walking 3-5 miles every morning under the beautiful Florida sunshine. He was also an avid reader, John Steinbeck and Larry McMurtry were among his favorite authors.

Leo was also a caregiver to his son Matthew who suffered from Multiple sclerosis up until his death in 2023. In addition, he was a source of unwavering support for his daughter Diane, while she was caring for her medically fragile sons. Leo remained independent until the end. He was well-loved and will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. https://www.nationalmssociety.org