Obituary of Leon Claeys

Leon E. Claeys 64 of Sheppard Settlement, Marcellus, NY passed away after a brief Illness.

Leon was born in Auburn, NY but resided his entire life in the Marcellus area. Leon attended Marcellus Schools and received on the job training at each of his various jobs.

Leon worked at multiple jobs starting as a laborer, then apprentice, all while receiving various training leading him into a full-time position.  Leon finally landed a permanent job with Onondaga County Department of Drainage and Sanitation, now known as WEP, Water Environmental Protections, as an Electrician. Leon was a 20 Plus year employee for Onondaga County

Leon enjoyed Fishing, Hunting, Monster Trucks, Yankee baseball, Syracuse University Sports, the NY Giants, and eventually the Buffalo Bills.

Many will remember Leon as a kind, and generous person. “A Happy Go Lucky fellow” who would give you the shirt off his back and was always there for you if you needed him.

Leon served as a Union activist for CSEA as a unit representative and helped at the CSEA Local 834 level as well. If there was a picket for a contract dispute, Leon would be there. Leon would march in every Labor Day parade for a great number of years before his illness limited his abilities.

Leon was a fixture at the NY State Fair. He would take many of his friend’s children to the Fair and would treat them to food, rides and most importantly the games.  He loved watching the faces of the children as they won the games they played and partook on the rides.  As a result of this he got the nickname of Uncle Lumpy by so many of the friend’s children.

At times Leon could be very stubborn, but after a little cooling off period, he would come to his senses and most likely would do the right thing.  Leon’s family and the homestead was paramount in all his decisions.

Leon was predeceased by his parents, mother Mary Wilson Claeys and his father Leon E. Claeys

Leon is survived by his brother Lawrence (Larry) Claeys and his wife, Patrice Claeys.

A celebration of life will take place 1 PM on September 2, 2023

4915 NW Townline Road, Marcellus, NY 13108.

Donations can be made to the Skaneateles Fire Department in his name.