Davenport, Fl. - Leon J. Gruskiewicz, age 77, of Davenport, passed away from lung cancer on Monday, December 31, 2007, at Good Shepherd Hospice, Auburndale.

Leon was born in Newport Township, Pa. on  April 27, 1930 and had resided in Nanticoke and Slocum Township, Pa. He graduated from Nanticoke High School in 1947 before attending Penn State Technical School and joining the United States Army.  He was stationed in Japan, where he attended both Kaio University and Eta Jima Command School as part of his service in the Signal Corps. While serving as godfather for his niece, Cynthia, he met Dorothy Zaremba, who had been asked to be the godmother. Leon and Dorothy married in 1953. The raised two children. While employed by Culbro Corporation in their mechanical and operations areas in Pa. Leon also worked to set up operations in Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Ireland and the Dominican Republic. Following his retirement, he and his wife, Dorothy, enjoyed trailer camping in Moyer’s Grove, Pa, and travels to many places throughout the United States.  When their travels brought them to Davenport and they decided to relocate there in 1995, Leon became actively involved in St. Ann Catholic Church in Haines City, where he served as an usher. He also enjoyed his volunteer work in the Edge Hill Development’s Neighborhood Watch and its many social activities. 

He is survived by hi wife, Dorothy  of Davenport; his Sister, Ruth of Horseheads, NY. His daughter, Linda of New York, NY. His son Jeffrey and his daughter-in law, Joyce of Ruffsdale, Pa; and his grandchildren: Brandon, of  Ft. Bragg, NC.; Christopher, and Jocelyn of  Ruffsdale, Pa.

Funeral services will be held Noon Friday (Jan. 4, 2008) at St. Ann Catholic Church, Haines City followed by a luncheon in the Church social hall.

In lieu for flowers, the family has requested contributions be made to: St. Ann Catholic Church Building Fund, 1311 Robinson Drive, PO. Box 1285, Haines City, Florida, 33845 or the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, 1311 Mamaroneck Drive, White Plains, NY. 116054  (www.lls.org).

Condolences may be sent via: oakridgefuneralcare.com