CANTON — Frank J. Lenney of Potsdam passed away in his sleep Friday morning at United Helpers nursing home, where he had been a resident. Born in Potsdam NY, September 15, 1927, son of Edwin J. and Margaret (Murphy) Lenney. He graduated from Potsdam High school in 1946. After high school he joined the army and was stationed in Italy. Upon his return he attended Paul Smith College graduating with a forestry degree in 1950. He briefly moved west for a job with Potlatch Forestry in Idaho. The construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway brought Frank back east and he work on construction of Iroquois dam and Robert Moses power dam. In 1957 Frank began working for the United State Postal Service where he was employed for nearly 30 years.
He married Mary G. Jermano on June 5, 1965 at St. Mary’s Church in Massena. They were both active parishioners at St. Mary’s Church in Potsdam. He enjoyed traveling, cooking, golfing, and bird watching. Frank was a member of the BPO Elks Potsdam 2074 for 56 years and served as Exalted Ruler in 1977-78. When wintering in Harlingen TX Frank joined the ROMEO’s (Retired Old Men Eating Out) while Mary was active with the Red Hat Society.
He is survived by a son Christopher (Danielle) Lenney. Brother, Edwin J Lenney, Sisters-in-law; Betty (Michael) Larosa, Anna McKenna, Loretta Connolly, Angela Wood, and Christine Volk. He has two step-grandchildren (Makenna and Ethan.) He has 9 nieces and 16 nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Mary J. Lenney, sister Florence (Tootie) Flint, in-laws, Mary Whalen Lenney, Bill Flint, Donald McKenna, Catherine and Fred Hand, William Wood, Daniel Volk, 2 nephews and 1 niece.
A mass of Christian Burial for Frank will be held on Friday, July 7th at 10:30 am at St. Mary’s Church in Potsdam with Rev. Stephen Rocker celebrant. Burial will follow the service at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Friends may call at the Garner Funeral Service on Thursday, July 6th from 4-7pm. Contributions in Frank’s memory can be made to the Potsdam Elks Lodge. Online condolences can be shared at www.garnerfh.com.