Leonard M. Pielli, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend went to meet the
Lord on January 17. Leonard was born August 15, 1938 in Spokane, WA, to Sam and Mary Pielli, joining
his 6-year old sister Sarah and later his half-brother, Ron.
He graduated from Rogers High School in 1956, attended Gonzaga University for 2 years, joined the
Washington Air National Guard, and then began his 40-year business partnership with Jack Rizzuto
(Rizzuto's Shoes & Repair).
In 1962, Leonard married Mary Ann Hurst. Leonard and Mary Ann had 4 children together. One child, a
little girl, Mary Lee, sadly passed shortly after birth. Leonard's first wife, Mary Ann, left earth's veil early
in life leaving Leonard and the three boys. In 1974, Leonard married Beryl Friedlander having 3 children
of her own.
Leonard and Beryl, along with the now 6 children, were now one beautiful family together. Leonard,
affectionately called Pop's, was very proud of all the children and would often share their
accomplishments with family and friends.
Leonard was active in the community always working to make life for other's better. He served as board
president for the Spokane Civic Theatre and as a board member for 8 years. There wasn't a place that
he went where he was not recognized and cheerfully greeted – a testament to him making the
community a better place. His family theme was work hard, be honest, be kind!
Leonard loved to fish and was known, a time or two, to enjoy gambling – Both of which he was very
lucky!
In the late 90's, Leonard retired and became an active volunteer with, which is now, South Pend Oreille
Fire and Rescue, and became a Fire District Commissioner, fire fighter, EMT, and Arson Investigator. He
retired in 2015.
Leonard and Beryl moved from their home on Sacheen Lake to Rockwood to be closer to their children.
Leonard was preceded in death by wife Mary Ann, infant daughter Mary Lee, father Sam and mother
Mary.
Leonard is survived by his wife of 49 years Beryl, sister Sarah Little, brother Ron Pielli (Deb) and children
Mike Pielli (Barb), William Pielli (Cindy), John Pielli (Carmen), Dwain Friedlander (Susan), Dee Ann
Brandley (Michael), Denise Juliano (Lou), 11 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
Services will be held at St. Thomas More Church, 505 W St. Thomas More Way, Spokane, on Saturday,
January 28 – 10:00 AM Rosary & viewing, 11:00 AM mass, with lunch to follow.