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PALMISANO -- Leon Sydney Palmisano - Husband, Father, Uncle, Coach, Friend, passed away at his home, with his family by his side, on September 30, 2005. He is survived by his wife, Priscilla; and their three children; Sandi Worsham of Phoenix, AZ, Leanne Palmisano of Denver, CO, and Stephen Palmisano of Tucson, AZ; also, grandchildren, Shannon and Jerry lll Worsham; son-in-law, Jerry Worsham, all of Phoenix, AZ; brother, Joseph Palmisano of Ventura, CA. Leon was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Margaret Palmisano. Born on September 7, 1932 in Portland, OR, Leon led an exemplary life filled with a loving family and many friends. Leon learned early in life that family and giving of oneself were the two most important values one could possess. Throughout his life, Leon's selflessness resonated with everyone he met - touching many lives, many hearts through coaching, teaching, friendship and business. Leon was 14 when he came to Albuquerque, with his brother and parents. He met lifelong friends while attending St. Mary's High School and playing baseball and basketball. Those friendships and new ones continued at the University of New Mexico where he also played basketball. His love of sports grew from his father, Joe, who played for the Philadelphia As and Portland Beavers. That love took Leon to St. Pius High School in the late 1950s and the beginning of a lifelong connection he cherished. Over the years, St. Pius has enjoyed a long and rich tradition of Athletic success - due in large part to the foundation he created in those early years. Leon was the school's first basketball coach and Athletic Director. His vision for the school proved valuable as he convinced the State High School Association to add St. Pius as a member soon after his arrival. His long list of firsts include; forming the first parochial league basketball program, the first state championship appearance in 1963, and the first baseball state championship title in 1964. Leon stayed close to several of his players over the years and always loved to reminisce about each play and every game. It was during his years at St. Pius that he met the love of his life - Priscilla. Together for 46 years, the family they created was always his passion and his life. He lived to make them smile and laugh - to guide and advise - he gave without reservation, loved without exception. Leon's years after St. Pius included creating and developing Mr. Tux Formal Wear, a business that became a staple of the community until the early 1980s and his work as a Stock Broker for the past 25 years. While these two businesses brought him financial and self satisfaction, it was his work as a Teacher and Coach that brought him the most joy. Leon's ability to connect with people and touch hearts will be incredibly missed, but know he is where he wants to be, teaching God how to shoot a free throw. A Rosary will be said for Leon on Monday, October 3, 2005 at 7:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Fatima Church. Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, October 4, 2005 at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Fatima Church, 4020 Lomas Blvd. NE. 505-265-5898. Interment will immediately follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Leon's nephews - honorary pallbearers will be his nieces. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Leon Palmisano Financial Aid Endowment Scholarship at St. Pius X High School. 5301 St. Joseph Dr. 87120 or contact the Development Office at 831-8406.
        Published on: Sun October 02, 2005