Obituary of Deacon Leslie F. Distin

"One life, one love." Deacon Leslie F. Distin, 96, has gratefully entered the eternal Gates of Heaven and was greeted by his wife of 69 years, Lucy. Les was predeceased by his parents Leslie H. and Margaret Distin, sister Katherine (Rudy) Krajick and Mary (Paul) Benenati, along with his in-laws Vincenzo and Maria Patriarca, Geno (Dora) Patriarca, Gilda (Gerald) Contento, Jenifer (Robert) Feeley, and nephews Paul Benenati and Michael Krajick. Dr. Distin was a proud service member of the US Navy during WWII and through the GI bill graduated from Cortland State Teachers' College as a PE Instructor. His degrees eventually earned him a principalship at Connetquot HS on Long Island followed by the Superintendency at Johnson City Schools and lastly as the Broome-Tioga BOCES District Superintendent. "Doc", as he was fondly called, was well respected and admired by those who worked with him. Upon retirement, Les joined the Syracuse Diocese Deaconate Program where he had remained active in various local churches officiating weddings, funerals, baptisms, etc., for 20+ years. He will be remembered for his meaningful sermons, kindness to parishioners, family & friends in need, his devotion to the church, and most importantly – his faith and love for his God and his family. Les had been a proud member of The American Legion Post 1305 and the Ancient Order of Hibernians for many years. He served on numerous boards and committees throughout Broome County. Les was a supporting and loving Father and will be missed by his children: Patricia Griffiths, Leslie J (Anne Marie) Distin, Sandra Distin (Dennis McCabe), and Michael R. (Lisa) Distin. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Dr. Nicole (Michael) Chudacik, Ryan (Katie) Griffiths, Dr. James Distin, Amanda Distin, Megan McCabe, Stacy McCabe, and Michael H. Distin. In addition, his great-grandchildren: Makenna, Bryce & Audra Chudacik and Rhoo Valayden. Les will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, and dear friends in the community. The family would like to extend a special thanks to all of dad's care companions, and more recently Guthrie-Lourdes Hospice, who provided compassionate care and support. Dad was able to remain home because of their dedication to his needs. We would also like to extend our thanks to Dr. Ramanujan and Nancy Evans, FNP, for their wonderful years of care. A Funeral Mass will be offered at St. Patrick's Church, corner of Oak and Leroy Streets, Binghamton, Saturday July 6, 2024 at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City. The family will receive friends at St. Patrick's Church, Friday, July 5, 2024 from 5 to 7 p.m. A Vigil for a Deceased Deacon will be celebrated at 7 p.m. A student scholarship at BT-BOCES has been established in dad's memory. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation, checks payable to: "BT BOCES – Dr. Distin Scholarship", mail to: BT BOCES, c/o Business Office #WAS18, 435 Glenwood Rd. Binghamton, NY 13905. The Mass will be livestreamed at www.sta-sp.org