Edward Joseph Lesnau, 95, of Syracuse, passed away at St. Joseph’s Hospital on May 19, 2024. He was born September 7, 1928 to August and Martha (Henson) Lesnau in Syracuse.

A lifelong resident of Syracuse, he graduated from St. Vincent de Paul High School in 1946. During his senior year, he was a proud member of the Parochial League basketball championship team. Following graduation, he enlisted in the US Army at the age of 17. He served in Japan with the Occupational Forces and trained in the 11th Airborne Division. After leaving the Army, he held various jobs before joining the Syracuse Fire Department in 1953. During this time, he married his wife Mary Margaret Kallfelz (who he met while they were both working at Kallfelz Brothers Bakery). He retired from the department in 1984. He was also an active member of The American Legion General Pulaski Post 1650.

“Smokey”, as he was fondly referred to, most enjoyed spending time at his camp on Pillar Point, Lake Ontario with his family and lifelong friends. Throughout his life he enjoyed many activities including carpentry, roofing, gardening and fishing. He participated in and also enjoyed watching all types of sports, especially golf and baseball.

Above all else, he will be remembered for being a kind and loving husband, father, grandfather, friend and neighbor.

He was predeceased by his wife Mary Margaret and his brother Robert. He his survived by his son Edward (Mary Jane) Lesnau; daughters: Cathy (Joe) LeMura, Joanne Lesnau, Martha (Al) Coren; grandchildren: Bo James (Colleen) Giddings, Joseph (Nora) Lesnau, Thomas (Hannah) Lesnau, James (Laura) LeMura, Alexander and Catherine Coren; great-grandchildren: Talon, Griffin, Jack, Madeleine, Charlotte, Henry, Spencer, Natalie and Melanie; nieces and nephews: Mary, Joseph, Jean, and Robert.

Honoring Edward’s wishes, there will be no public services. A private burial with military honors will be held at Onondaga Veterans Cemetery. Memorial donations can be made to St. Vincent de Paul Church.

Online condolences, www.shepardsonfh.com.