James Albert Leko III passed from this temporary life into eternal life on January 6, 2024. He was 83. He passed as he lived, gently and peacefully, as a man of and for God.

Jim was born on April 30, 1940, to James and Edith (Tagg) Leko. He leaves behind his loving, faithful wife, Stephanie (Griz) Leko. He also leaves behind his children Christina (Kenneth) Saxa and Kimberly (Gary) Leko. His 6 grandchildren; Kiley, Michael, Nicholas, and Camryn Saxa. Kallie and Carli Tenk. His brother John and his brothers-in-law Andy Griz, and Bob Mastroni. Along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends to cherish his memory. Jim was also predeceased by his beautiful sister, Elaine Mastroni in 2014.

Jim was in the 1959 graduating class of Central High School in Bridgeport, CT. He joined the service that same year and proudly served his country until 1961, then continued on in the reserves. He traveled the sea on the Navy Ship U.S.S. Wasp. He remained a loyal and true patriot to the American Way.

He worked most of his life as a group leader for the Bodine Corp. in Bridgeport. He even learned sign language for one hearing impaired man so this man could understand and succeed in his job.

He counted his summers at Timber Creek, Rhode Island as the most treasured. He enjoyed fishing, clamming, and kayaking with all of his grandchildren. He spent every summer there for many years. There were always family dinners, sleepovers, swimming, family games, and great times traveling in their golf carts all around the campground. To quote a grandson, "those were the glory days".

Jim and Steph loved to travel. Their most memorable trip was to The Holy Land. It was the year of their 46th wedding anniversary and they renewed their marriage vows. Previously, Jim started on his journey to becoming Catholic following Stephanie's path. Prayers were answered and it was life changing for them.

Jim found joy and comfort in tending his gardens. He shared all the fruits of his labor generously with everyone.

He was a family man. He placed God, family, and America first in his life. He was kind, patient, and generous with his time, his talents, and his treasures. A wise steward in all that he was provided with. He claimed "his cup runneth over."

Jim's presence will always be missed, until we meet again "Have a blessed day".

Friends may greet the family from 4-7 pm on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, in the Adzima Funeral Home, 50 Paradise Green Place, Stratford.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, January 11th at 9:45 am meeting directly at Our Lady of Peace Church in Lordship. Interment with full military honors will follow in State Veterans Cemetery, Middletown.