LeRoy A. DeBrakeleer

LeRoy A. DeBrakeleer, 94, of Hermitage, passed away peacefully with his wife and children at his side on Sunday evening, March 22, 2026.

Mr. DeBrakeleer was born April 23, 1931, in Farrell, a son of the late LeRoy H. “Roy” and Anna (Moder) DeBrakeleer, and graduated from Farrell High School in 1949.

A third-generation grocer, LeRoy owned and operated DeBrakeleer’s Market on the corner of Hamilton and Union in Farrell, a business which his grandfather founded in 1901.

LeRoy was a member of Our Lady of Fatima Church, Farrell, where he belonged to the Bethany Club.

He enjoyed playing Bocce and was a member of both the Sons of Italy, Sharon, and the Italian Home Club, Farrell. LeRoy also looked forward to gardening, entertaining family and friends at his backyard pool, and fishing, especially on the causeway at Pymatuning Lake.

Above all else, LeRoy was a devoted husband, loving father, and adoring grandfather who truly treasured his family and friends.

His beloved wife of 56 years, Diana (Vernille) DeBrakeleer, whom he married August 8, 1970, survives at their home in Hermitage.

LeRoy is also survived by a son, Dr. Donald J. DeBrakeleer (Dr. Lynne), of Lansdale, PA; a daughter, Joni M. Lewandowski (Dave), of Chicago, IL; six grandchildren, Danielle Lewandowski (Phil), Melissa Lewandowski (Bert), D.J. DeBrakeleer (Caroline), David Lewandowski (Andrea), and Daniel and Dylan DeBrakeleer; six great-grandchildren, Ada, Leo, James, Bode, Landon, and Fia; a sister, DeAnna Opalenik; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, LeRoy was preceded in death by a sister, Paula Knott.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Embassy Healthcare, Hermitage, for their exceptional kindness and care.

Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. Friday (3-27-26) in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Saturday (3-28-26) in Our Lady of Fatima Church, 601 Roemer Blvd., Farrell, with Rev. Michael DeMartinis, as celebrant.

Interment: Hillcrest Memorial Park, Hermitage.