Leonard Larese-Casanova - Obituary

eonard M. Larese-Casanova passed away just days after his 73rd birthday on August 21, 2014. “Len” was born in Pieve di Cadore, Italy on August 16, 1941 to the late Joseph and Rina Larese-Casanova. They lived in Italy until Len was 8 years old. In 1949, the family moved for work opportunities, first to Argentina and then finally settling in Brooklyn, NY when Len was 14 years old. He graduated from high school as captain of his soccer team and as Salutatorian of his class, after just learning English. Len went on to attend the City University of New York where he graduated with honors in Civil Engineering. He spent the next four years in the Commissioned Corps of NOAA where he achieved the rank of Lieutenant and visited over half of our 50 U.S. states doing research. He eventually settled in Annapolis, MD and met his wife of 43 years, Gloria, in an elevator at work. Len worked for over 40 years at Maryland‘s Department of Natural Resources, acting as Director of Shore Erosion Control for over three decades. He dedicated his life to preserving the Chesapeake Bay shoreline and was honored with the Admiral of the Chesapeake Bay award. Even though Len was a world traveler, his most favorite place to be was at home with his family. He also was an avid reader, great cook (his specialty being breakfast), and loved to go on adventures with his metal detector. He was a dedicated Catholic and member of St. Mary’s Parish for many years. Len leaves behind his beloved wife, Gloria; two daughters, Amy Willmarth (Aaron) and Jennie Larese-Casanova (Brad Smith); and grandson, Charles Willmarth; as well as his two brothers Renato Larese-Casanova (Susan) and Lorenzo Larese-Casanova (Yolanda); two sisters, Laura Prusock and Anna Nunn (David), and many other family members and friends. A Memorial Mass will be offered for Len at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 N. Bestgate Road, Annapolis on Monday, August 25, 2014 at 10:30am with a reception to follow at the Quiet Waters Blue Heron Room. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Len's name to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation either by mail at: Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Attn: Membership Dept., 6 Herndon Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21403; by phone at: 410-268-8816; or on line by "double-clicking" on the address in the left column of this page. An online guestbook is available at www.kalasfuneralhomes.com.