Patrick John Leary

Patrick John Leary, of Rindge NH, died on April 21, 2022, after a three-year battle with lung cancer. He is survived by his wife, Stephanie Burns-Leary, his children Kyle, Benjamin, and Johanna, his grandson Henry, his stepchildren Jared and Sasha, his sisters Janice and Michele, and his brother Eugene, as well as eight nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son JJ, sisters Jody and Betsy, his stepdaughter Cass, and his parents, Eugene and Francis.

Patrick was a graduate of Malden Catholic High School, and Northeastern University with a bachelors in Electrical Engineering. Patrick worked for over 40 years as a defense contractor at GTE Sylvania Electronic Systems Group in Needham MA, which later became General Dynamics Mission Systems. Pat's first assignment at GTE required a two-year relocation to Kwajalein, an atoll within the Marshall Islands in the South Pacific, where the United States conducted ballistic missile research and testing. Throughout his career involving hardware, software, systems and engineering management, Patrick made significant contributions to many tactical and strategic military communication systems which are used throughout the world.

Patrick's interests outside of work started with his children. He was a strong proponent of education, from building literacy through handmade tools, through counseling over advanced mathematics at a masters-degree level. Patrick encouraged his children to learn about the world, and follow their passions, leading to eight collegiate degrees between them in fields as varied as Education, Engineering, and Global Studies. Patrick's guidance extended well beyond school years, helping his kids navigate through jobs, moving across the world, or simply the art of baking a loaf of bread. When in doubt, his kids knew who to talk to first for wisdom and strength, a role Patrick relished.

Patrick's personal interests were varied, but the theme of learning for himself is evident in all facets. As he moved into retirement, autocross racing his Ford Mustang, and rebuilding an early 90's Mazda Miata into a race car were new challenges to learn. With his lifelong friend Bobby Verbanas, they took it upon themselves to renovate a summer cabin, including replacing the foundation themselves, and completely updating the interior. Patrick preferred to do as much of the work in these pursuits as he could himself, his fascination with how things worked driving him to learn as much as he could about the world around him.

A memorial service will be planned at a later date when the entire family is able to attend. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation of time or money to your favorite charitable cause. While Patrick personally supported The Salvation Army, Toys for Tots, the USO and the Jimmy Fund among others, he always encouraged people to support their passions, whatever they may be. May his memory drive your passions.