Dr. Leonard M. Dileo

Dr. Leonard Michael Dileo, MD January 22, 1943 – September 13, 2024 Dr. Leonard Michael Dileo, MD, 81, passed away on September 13, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Trenton, NJ, to Leonard Scammel and Antoinette (Netty) Dileo, Len lived a remarkable life dedicated to his family, patients, and passions. Len is survived by his son, Ali Dileo, daughter-in-law, Courtney, and granddaughters Isla and Keira. He is also survived by his siblings, Catherine (David) Radeschi of Eatontown, NJ; Pasquale (Kathy) Dileo of Toms River, NJ; and Thomas Dileo of Princeton, NJ. He was a cherished uncle to Christopher (Melanie) Radeschi and their children, Christopher and Alexandra; Gregory (Angela) Radeschi and their daughter, Sequoia; Michael (Liz) Dileo; Katie (Patrick) O'Donnell and their daughters, Reese and Teagan; Joanna (Keith) Morris and their son, Elijah; and Jack and Sophia Dileo. Len will also be deeply missed by many cousins and extended family who cherished him. Len was known for his warm, gentle spirit and his ability to make everyone feel heard and understood, qualities that extended beyond his work as a psychiatrist to all aspects of his life. Dr. Dileo graduated from Rutgers University in 1964 with a degree in Pre-Medicine before serving two years as a Community Organizer in the Peace Corps in Iran, where he became fluent in Farsi. He later pursued his medical education at the University of Bologna in Italy, followed by an internship at Cooper Hospital in Camden, NJ, and a psychiatry residency at Albert Einstein Hospital in Philadelphia, where he served as Chief Resident. For 40 years, Dr. Dileo practiced as a Board-Certified Geriatric Psychiatrist in Virginia Beach, VA, where he was deeply loved by his patients for his empathy and care. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, both personally and professionally, with his compassion and wisdom. Len frequently returned to New Jersey to spend time with family, cherishing ocean swim races with his brothers, Pat and Tommy, and embarking on “The Boys' Scuba Diving Trips” with his son, nephews, and brother, exploring destinations around the world. For four years, Len and his siblings hosted a radio show, Around the Kitchen Table, on WNWR 1540 AM in Philadelphia. Len took great pride in planning the menu and selecting the wine for the family dinner before each show, thoroughly researching every detail and bringing his signature passion and care to the experience. A true Renaissance man, Len had a deep appreciation for history, art, food, music, and his Italian heritage. He especially enjoyed family trips to Italy, including visits to his father's village of San Fele. Fluent in Italian, Len was often mistaken for a local when traveling there, embracing the culture, food, and wine with joy. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who loved him. In his final years, Len was surrounded by the unwavering love and care of his son Ali, former wife Mitra Gilbert, and other devoted family members, who ensured he was always comforted and supported. A remembrance and celebration of life will be held on Sunday, September 22, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Bongarzone Funeral Home (2400 Shafto Road, Tinton Falls, NJ 07712). Those who knew and cared for Dr. Dileo are invited to raise a toast in his honor with one of his favorite drinks: a glass of Italian red wine or a double shot of espresso. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Dr. Dileo's memory to the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County. Contributions can be made online at https://mentalhealthmonmouth.org/donate/

Dr. Leonard M. Dileo

January 22, 1943 - September 13, 2024