Leo J. Abbott, 87, of Utica, passed away on Monday, August 12th, 2013 at Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare Center with family by his side. Leo was born on December 7, 1925 in Plymouth, PA, the son of Joseph and Nellie (Kelly) Abbott. He came to Utica in 1932. Leo was educated in the Utica schools and attended trade school. He enlisted in the Merchant Marines on December 7th, 1941, served during the period of armed conflict, and was honorably discharged from the United States Coast Guard on August 15, 1945. He also gave five years of voluntary service in the Civil Defense Forces. Leo attended military school and maritime training in NYC and earned officer ranking and status. In June of 1948, Leo married Louise Zasa. Together they had four children and his favorite times always involved his family. Louise predeceased him on February 13th, 2012. Leo, an avid golfer, fisherman, and hunter, enjoyed sharing these activities with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He was a professional photographer in his early years and a self-employed salesman in the later years. Leo also was a 35-year member in the Knights of Columbus. Leo is survived by, one son & daughter in-law, Glenn & Sharon Abbott of New Hartford; three daughters, Ann Louise Baker and special friend, Amadeo Torchia of Utica, Rebecca Dunn of Utica, Joann Veinot & her fiancé, Mark York of Rome; his grandchildren, Heather Dunn & fiancé Leon Koziol, Chris Baker & fiancé Angela Guilisano, Lee & Marissa Veinot, Mark Baker, Andrea & Mike Kelly, Andrew & Tara Abbott, Lorraine Veinot, Ashley Abbott & fiancé, Nicholas Betrus as well as ten great grandchildren. He is also survived by one brother and sister in-law, Joseph and Carmella Abbott, brother-in-law and close friend, Joseph Tocco, and sisters-in-law, Ann Abbott and Carol Zasa; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Earl Abbott, and two sisters, June Rosanski and Dorothy Dygert. Mr. Abbott's funeral will be held on Monday, August 19, 2013, at 11:30 am at St. Mary of Mount Carmel Church in Utica, where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery, Utica. There are no public calling hours. Those wishing may donate to the American Heart Association in Leo's memory. The family would like to extend their gratitude for the wonderful care by the staff of the Sitrin Rehab Center as well as the staff at Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare Center for the care and compassion shown during Leo's time there.