In Memoriam
Frank Joseph Leo
1944-2026
COOPERSTOWN—Frank Joseph Leo, 82, of Cooperstown, New York passed away peacefully at his home on Chestnut Street on September 6, 2026. He was born March 28, 1944 to his loving parents, Joseph C. Leo and Carmelita Tucci, and grew up in Oneonta, New York with his three siblings, Jane, Joe, and Charlie (deceased 2013).
After completing high school, Frank joined the U. S. Army, where he served in the 82nd Airborne Division before joining the Special Forces (“Green Berets”), completing multiple tours in Vietnam and earning four Purple Hearts. He served for 22 years and later worked in Washington, D.C. as a driver for notable figures such as General Alexander Haig, General Andrew Goodpaster, and Henry Kissinger.
Later in life, Frank moved back to upstate New York, where he thrived in the hospitality business as an owner and operator of multiple restaurants and the Tunnicliff Inn in Cooperstown. A world traveler with a philanthropic heart, family and friends will remember Frank as a kind and generous man completely dedicated to his wife and his community.
Frank is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Leigh, as well as his siblings, Jane and Joe Leo. He also leaves behind his beloved in-laws, Kasey, Marc, Dan, and Darby Connor, as well as numerous friends throughout Cooperstown and the world.
Services will be held privately. A celebration of life will take place at the Tunnicliff Inn and will be publicized when the date is determined.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation in Frank’s name to the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund at the following dedicated memorial site: https://everloved.com/life-of/frank-leo/.
