Obituary of Roswitha Leonardo

Roswitha Leonardo, 83, of Syracuse, NY, passed away on January 2, 2025 following a stroke on Christmas evening.
Roswitha was born on April 12, 1941 in Heigenbrucken Germany. She came to the United States at the age of 18 and worked as a stewardess for Mohawk Airlines where she met her husband Robert Anthony Leonardo.
Her second career was at Photography by Fernando where she worked for over 20 years and wore many hats. She was the studio manager, accountant, sales manager, and so much more.  She became such an invaluable part of the business that Fernando called her “The Boss.”
Roswitha met Bob in 1962, they wed in 1966, going on to create their masterpiece, their family. They have two children, Michael and Stephan.
Oma will be remembered as a selfless wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, friend and neighbor, who always managed to put a smile on her face, even when times were tough.  She was a faithful Catholic who loved having the entire family attend service Christmas Eve, her most cherished holiday.
She enjoyed her retirement years serving her family and friends. She loved cooking, gardening, and sharing her bounty with loved ones.  She was more than happy to be working away in the kitchen, giving out orders, juggling multiple plates and controlling the frenzy around her. When she was in the kitchen cooking or cleaning, you would frequently hear show tunes or her favorite German songs playing in the background. More recently she loved walking the neighborhood children to school, singing songs and sharing stories. She treasured her time with them and they adored each other! 
Roswitha is survived by her husband Bob; two children Michael Leonardo (Ann Perkins) and Stephan Leonardo (Iya Leonardo); and three grandchildren Michael, Ellie, and Isabel; and sister Andrea Englert (in Germany). She is predeceased by her brother Roland Staab.
A mass for Roswitha will be held at Immaculate Conception Church in Fayetteville on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 12:30 p.m.  A reception for family and friends will be at a later date.  The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, remembrances be made in the form of charitable donations to Francis House; Roswitha spent her final days in their care.