Gertrude Leonard

husband James J. Leonard, and brother Paul. Surviving her are three sons: Paul Leonard (wife Marie), James Leonard (wife Ruth), and Brian Leonard, as well as seven grandchildren.

She was born in East Elmhurst, NY almost 100 years ago to parents Paul and Mary Eichhorst. Gertrude graduated from Newtown High School in Queens, NY in June 1940.

While in her 20’s she was employed for the phone company (‘ma bell’) and was sent out to San Diego, CA to work as a telephone operator in support of the effort for WWII.

Gertrude loved music, dancing and having fun. In the 1940’s she could be found as one of the ‘bobby-soxers’ (google it kids) waiting outside the Paramount Theater in NYC to see Frank Sinatra.

After returning to New York, she married James J. Leonard in May 1949. They had three sons together.

Gertrude liked reading, and watching her favorite programs --- she was never to be disturbed while watching Judge Judy. She loved having family over during holiday seasons and often cooked a (world’s best) German sauerbraten dinner for her guests.

In her later years, Gertrude enjoyed living in her retirement community of Apollo in Bethpage, NY. Many afternoons in the summer she could be found swimming and socializing at their pool.

She will be missed by all who knew her.

A visitation for Gertrude will be held Sunday, July 17, 2022 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Frederick Funeral Home, 192-15 Northern Boulevard, Flushing, NY 11358. A funeral mass will occur Monday, July 18, 2022 from 10:45 AM to 11:30 AM at St. Kevin R.C. Church, 45-21 194th Street, Flushing, NY 11358. An interment will occur Monday, July 18, 2022 from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM at Mt. St. Mary Cemetery, 172-00 Booth Memorial Ave, Flushing, NY 11365.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.frederick-fh.com for the Leonard family.