Leonello Aquino

January 15, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. Born in Jersey City on May 12,1966,

to the late Pasquale and Maria Aquino. Leo lived in Union City his whole life.

Born with Down Syndrome, Uncle Leo, as he was known to many overcame lots of

challenges throughout his life, and he only saw the good in everyone. Uncle Leo was

truly a kind soul and an Angel on Earth. In his younger years, Leo participated in the

Special Olympics and won many trophies for bowling. Leo loved dancing and practiced

countless hours to dance with his sister Patrizia at her wedding. Leo loved listening to

music including some of his favorites; Billy Joel, Barry Manilow, Neil Diamond, and Queen.

Leo loved building with legos, playdoh, and coloring in his coloring books. Leo also loved

to help cook with his family and had a passion for food.

Survivors include his loving sisters, Geraldine and Milena Aquino of Union City, NJ, Patrizia

Cortazzo of Montvale, NJ, and niece Gianna Cortazzo and nephew/Godson Anthony Cortazzo

of Montvale. He was predeceased by his aunt Carmela Iannaccone of Italy and brother-in-law

John Mark Cortazzo of Montvale.

Leo’s Life Celebration will include visiting on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 from 3 pm - 8 pm

at Leber Funeral Home, 1245 Paterson Plank Road, Secaucus, NJ. A funeral prayer service will be

offered on Thursday, January 23, 2025 beginning at 9am at the funeral home. A funeral mass will

be held at 10:30 am at Our Lady of Mercy Roman Catholic Church at 2 Fremont Ave., Park Ridge,

New Jersey. Leo will be laid to rest at Holy Cross Mausoleum, 340 Ridge Rd. North Arlington, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to The National Down Syndrome Society at

www.ndss.org in honor of Leo Aquino.

.