Leonard Francis Jacopelle Jr.

Leonard "Len" Jacopelle, Jr.

Leonard "Len" Jacopelle, Jr., 77, of Herkimer, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Little Falls Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family and the countless memories he created throughout a life dedicated to faith, family, friendship, and service to his country.

Len was born on June 18, 1949, in Herkimer, New York, the son of the late Leonard and Mary Catherine (Mead) Jacopelle, Sr. He attended Frankfort schools and graduated from Frankfort-Schuyler High School with the Class of 1968. Shortly after graduation, Len answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He proudly served in Vietnam, where he was wounded in combat and was awarded the Purple Heart for his bravery and sacrifice. On June 27, 1972, he was honorably discharged with the rank of Corporal, carrying with him a deep sense of patriotism and pride that remained with him throughout his life.

On November 9, 1968, Len married the love of his life, Jean Ainsworth, at St. Francis DeSales Church in Herkimer. Together they built a beautiful life spanning nearly fifty-eight years, raising a close-knit family that was always the center of Len's world. Their marriage was one of unwavering love, partnership, and countless adventures shared together.

Following his military service, Len worked for many years at Remington Arms before continuing his career with the New York State Department of Corrections at Marcy Correctional Facility. His work ethic, dependability, and willingness to lend a helping hand earned him the respect of coworkers and friends alike.

Len remained devoted to his fellow veterans throughout his life. He was a Life Member of the Marine Corps League in Ilion, where he proudly served on the Board of Directors. He was also an active member of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 944, serving on the Honor Guard, a Life Member of VFW Post 6001, and a proud member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart. Honoring those who served alongside him and ensuring veterans were never forgotten was a mission he carried with great pride.

While Len loved his country deeply, nothing compared to the love he had for his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, an adoring Poppy, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him endless joy, and there was nothing he wouldn't do for them. Whether he was sharing stories, lending advice, teasing them with one of his many nicknames, or simply spending time together, his love was unconditional and unmistakable.

One of Len's greatest passions was the freedom of the open road. An avid motorcyclist, he especially loved riding his Honda Gold Wing and his Harley-Davidson. Some of his happiest memories were made alongside his beloved wife, Jean, as the two of them traveled together on countless motorcycle trips throughout the country. Every year they eagerly looked forward to attending Americade in Lake George, where they enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow riders and created memories that they treasured for a lifetime. Those trips were never just about the destination-they were about the journey, the friendships, and the special time they shared together.

Len also found happiness in life's simple pleasures. He loved being outdoors, tending to his garden, watching the variety of birds gather in his yard on the multiple bird feeders, and preparing meals for those he loved. His family often joked that he never knew how to cook for just a few people-there was always enough food to feed an army, and he wouldn't have had it any other way. The kitchen was one of his favorite places to show his love, and no one ever left his table hungry.

He had a tremendous love for animals, especially dogs. Throughout the years, many faithful canine companions became part of the Jacopelle family, but none held a place in his heart quite like his beloved Boxer, Sassie, affectionately known as "Sassie Pants." She was more than a pet-she was his constant companion and best friend. Whether relaxing at home, working outside, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, Sassie was always by his side, and the bond they shared was one of unconditional love and unwavering loyalty.

Leonard is survived by his beloved wife, Jean Jacopelle; his three daughters, Tina Jacopelle and her fiancé, Chris Kalem, Anna Cerio and her husband, Tim, and Charley Ann Priola and her husband, Robert.

He was the proud and loving Poppy of Lexie "Shadow" Priola, Paige "Funny Bones" Priola, Emily "Emmers" Cerio, Andrew Priola, Nicholas Priola, and Giovanni Priola. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and each held a special place in his heart. He was also blessed with four great-grandchildren, Macie Cerio, Olivia Seymour, Charlotte Seymour, and Jackson Gregory, who brought him immeasurable joy.

Len is also survived by his brothers, Samuel Jacopelle and John Jacopelle and his husband, David Jones; his sister, Joanne Mergenthaler; his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Robert and Maryanne Ainsworth, Mark Ainsworth, Cathy Ainsworth and Arthur Lefave; his goddaughters, Amy Lafave, Andrea Lawrence, his lifelong friends, Jim Hancock and Joe Camaratta; his cherished friends from the ADK coffee clutch and the many veterans organizations he proudly belonged to; along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

He was predeceased by his parents, Leonard and Mary Catherine Jacopelle; his beloved grandmother, Emily Mead; his grandfather, John Goodman; his uncle and godfather, Charlie Jacopelle; his precious granddaughter, Baby Grace; his parents-in-law, Douglas and Louise Ainsworth; his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, John Ainsworth, Carol Lafave, and Fred Mergenthaler; and his faithful Boxer and best friend, Sassie "Sassie Pants."

Len's life was defined by courage, loyalty, compassion, and unconditional love. He was a man of unwavering integrity. Yet above all of his accomplishments, the titles he treasured most was that of husband, Dad, and Poppy. He taught those around him the value of hard work, generosity, loyalty, and always putting family first. He never asked for much in return-only the chance to spend time with those he loved, share a good meal, take a ride on his motorcycle, watch the birds from his window, or simply enjoy another day with Jean by his side.

Although his passing leaves an immeasurable void, his legacy lives on through the family he adored, the friends whose lives he touched, the veterans he proudly stood beside, and the values he instilled in those fortunate enough to know him. His love will continue to guide his family, his stories will continue to be shared around the dinner table, and his spirit will forever ride alongside those he loved, just as surely as the open roads that brought him so much happiness.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the V.J. Iocovozzi Funeral Home, Inc., 203 Second Avenue, Frankfort. Members of the organizations to which Len belonged are invited to gather at the funeral home Monday evening for services.

His funeral will be held Tuesday morning at 9:00 AM in the V.J.Iocovozzi Funeral Home, Inc. 203 Second Ave Frankfort and at 10:00 St. Francis DeSales Church, North Bellinger Street, Herkimer where the Mass of Christian Burial celebrated by the Rev. Justin Thomas, Pastor. Interment with full military honors, will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

The Jacopelle family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has offered prayers, love, and support during this difficult time. Len lived a life of honor, service, laughter, and unconditional love. His memory will forever remain a blessing, and while he may no longer walk beside us, he will always live on in our hearts.
Contributions in Len's memory may be made to St. Jude's Childrens' Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Pl, Memphis, TN 38105 or any Veterans associations including Wounded Warriors, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy may be placed on Leonard's online memorial page by going to www.iocovozzifuneralhomes.com