Obituary: F. Leo Gantert

F. Leo Gantert, retired Danbury Deputy Police Chief, died peacefully on Friday, July 5 at the age of 91 after a long and fulfilling life. Leo was born in Danbury, Dec. 21, 1921, the elder son of the late Frederick and Elizabeth (Flynn) Gantert.

A lifelong Danbury resident he was a graduate of St. Peter Parochial School and Danbury High School. Leo was a parishioner of St. Peter Parish.

His forty-nine year law enforcement career began after having serving with the U.S. Army during World War II. Joining the Danbury Police Department in 1948 he was promoted through the ranks to Deputy Police Chief. During his tenure of many years he witnessed the growth and expansion of the department from the basement of the old City Hall to the modern headquarters of today.

Leo was an active member of the Police Athletic League coaching its various youth activities. He served as the League President and on the Board of Directors until his retirement. He was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Police and a current member of the Police Benevolent Association.

In 1998 he received the Civic Award from the Old Timers Association for his contribution to the city baseball leagues. Leo loved all animals especially his pets over the years, Lady, Lucy, Barney, Jake and Rascal. He was an avid gardener and enjoyed working in his yard.

In addition to his wife, Lenore, of nearly 60 years, he is survived by his son, Brian Gregory and his wife, Cheryl of Danbury, sister-in-law Jean Gantert of Old Saybrook and several nieces and nephews.

Leo is predeceased by his brother, William.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, July 12th at St. Peter Church, Main Street, Danbury. Burial will follow in St. Peter Cemetery.

The family will receive friends between the hours of 4 and 7 p.m. Thursday, July 11th at Cornell Memorial Home, 247 White St., Danbury.