Leonard Furnari, age 91, went home to be with the Lord on December 22, 2025, in his home with his loving family at his side.
Leonard was a man of deep integrity who believed strongly in doing the right thing, no matter the circumstance. Above all else, he believed that family was the most important thing in life, and he made sure those around him always knew it. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who found his greatest joy in being surrounded by family. Babies, especially, brought out a happiness in him that was unmatched and deeply cherished by those who witnessed it.
Strong and hardworking, Leonard lived a life defined by perseverance and purpose. He loved tough-guy films—especially John Wayne movies and Walker, Texas Ranger—listening to music on his record player and sharing stories that reflected his lived experiences. He was an avid gardener and took great pride in his infamous fig tree, even building it a protective house every winter. Summers were often spent at his North cabin, where time slowed and family memories were made. He was a member of the Italian American Club in Monroe and St. Michael the Archangel Parish where he served as an usher.
Leonard grew up in Borgetto, Sicily, where as a young man he worked on the family farm and proudly served in the Italian Army. After marrying his beloved wife, Anne, on February 15, he immigrated to the United States in 1958 with very little, driven by a single goal: to provide a better life for his family. He went on to work for Ford Motor Company for over 30 years as a hi-lo driver, earning respect through his dedication and unwavering work ethic. He retired in 1989.
Though Leonard was never formally educated beyond the second grade, he deeply valued education and opportunity. He consistently encouraged his daughter and grandchildren to work hard, take pride in their efforts, and strive to be the best students they could be—believing that hard work and commitment could create possibilities where none once existed.
Leonard's legacy is one of sacrifice, resilience, and love. Through determination and selflessness, he truly made something out of nothing. Though he came from poverty, he succeeded in providing stability, opportunity, and a life centered on family—an achievement that will continue to live on through generations.
Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, Angelina and Francesco Furnari, and his siblings Giacomo (Jack) Furnari, Francesco (Frank) Furnari, Giuseppe (Joe) Furnari, and Nunzia (Nancy) Furnari.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Anne Furnari; his loving daughter, Angela Boron, and her husband, Lloyd; four cherished grandchildren, Marisa (Mitchell) Graves, Michael (Shelby) Strimpel, Anna (John) Farmer, and Tabitha Boron, and eight treasured great-grandchildren: Leo, Vinny, Vivien, Donny, Monica, Gibson, Charlie, and Krew, who brought him endless pride and joy.
Visitation will be held on Monday from 1 – 7 pm, Rosary 6:00 pm, at Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd., Monroe, Michigan, 48161. On Tuesday, December 30, 2025, he will lie in state at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church beginning at 9:00 am where Mass of the Resurrection, celebrating Leonard's life will begin at 10:00 am. Fr. Kishore B. Battu will be the celebrant. Entombment will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Monroe.
Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Parish.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com .