Leonarda S. (Malek) Ferree

YORK – Leonarda S. (Malek) Ferree, 89, passed away Friday, March 7, 2014 at Manor Care – South. She was the wife of Lester A. Ferree to whom she was married for 68 years. Born March 27, 1924 in North Tonawanda, NY she was the daughter of Polish immigrants, the late Michael and Anniella (Palen) Malek. After graduation from North Tonawanda High School, Mrs. Ferree enlisted with the US Women’s Army Air Corps and served during WWII where she met her husband. She retired from Fincor Electronics after 24 years where she worked as an electronic wirer. Leonarda was a loving mother, wife, and exceptional cook of Polish food. She was known for her pierogi and gawumpki. She was extremely proud of her military service and children’s accomplishments. She was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. In addition to her husband, Mrs. Ferree is survived by a son, Timothy L. and wife Nancy Ferree of Cordova, TN; two daughters, Sandra J. Baron and companion Robert J. Pampin of Leesburg, FL and Felicia S. and husband Jan Dell of York; five grandchildren, Melissa, Nicolas, and Michael Buonagurio, Jennifer Wallace, and Ashley Thompson; two great grandchildren, Taylor Wallace and Zachary “Ty” Thompson; and a sister, Jean Rosinski of North Tonawanda. She was preceded in death by a son, Jerold L. Ferree; and two brothers, John and Joseph Urbanik. A memorial mass will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, April 5, 2014 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 219 South Beaver Street, York with Rev. Keith Carroll officiating. Private interment with full military honors will be at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville. Heffner Funeral Chapel & Crematory, Inc., 1551 Kenneth Road, York is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place,Memphis, TN 38105.