Leonard Abbott Vignola, Jr., 82 years of age, died on Epiphany January 6, 2013 at Stamford Hospital of respiratory failure. He is survived by his most beloved wife, Barbara Mitchell, of 20 years and seven wonderful children from his first marriage to Dorothea: Mark, Eric, Chad, Cort, Noelle, Adam, and Dawn Vignola; and twelve grandchildren: Deanna, Nikolas, Cara, Kelsi, Sarah, Scott, Eric, Eva, Nia, Connor, Will, and Samarra. Leonard made Stamford his home and a life’s investment 52 years ago, having arrived from Chicago, Illinois.
A graduate of Northwestern University and Case Western Reserve with an MBA, he was the founding partner of Beacon Partners, Inc. for the past 36 years. Leonard had an extensive history in the small business and Connecticut political community. Former Board of Finance member and Chairman for two years, mayoral candidate for Stamford in 1987 and 1989, Vice President of the Stamford Economic Development Commission, Chairman of the Board of Directors for the City Transit District, Chairman of the Board for the City Small Business Center, board of directors Stamford Historical Society, founding director of the Stamford Partnership, member of SACIA Chamber of Commerce, member of the Board of Directors of the VNA, member of the Jaycees, president of Venture Group, member of the Board of Directors of the New England Lyric Operetta, advisor of the Ethel Kweskin Theater, chairman of the Board of Directors Connecticut Ballet.
Author of Productivity and City Economic Development and Strategic Divestment, he specialized throughout his career in financial restructuring, refinance, and strategic repositioning.
More than these fine business and civic accomplishments, he was a beloved father, husband, colleague, and fiercely loyal friend and confidant to many in the Stamford community. Known for his rapier wit, quick mind, easy laugh, and straight from the hip, no nonsense approach to just about any topic, he was deeply loved and will be sorely missed.
A memorial gathering will be held on January 9, 2013 at the Connecticut Ballet, 20 Acosta St., Stamford, CT 06902 from 7:00PM until 9:00PM. In lieu of flowers or cards, please send donations to the Connecticut Ballet at the address listed above. To leave on line condolences, please visit www.leopgallagherstamford.com
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