Leo Patrick Fennell, of Melrose, died December 2, 2015 at the age of 79. He was born on November 1, 1936 in Roxbury, Massachusetts to Paul and Julia O'Riordan Fennell. As a boy, he grew up in the "leaky" roof section of Roxbury, along with his four siblings, Marion, Paul, Billy, and Mary. His family was also a member of St. Francis de Sales Parish. Although coming from a humble beginning, he used his books smarts to get a scholarship to the Cathedral of the Holy Cross High School in Boston. He then attended Suffolk University for a short time before entering the Marines. During his time with the Marines, he attended the US Naval School of Justice in Newport to receive certification to become a Court Stenographer. He married Helen M. Niland in 1961 and they lived the first several years in Dorchester before settling down in Melrose, with their four children. He worked for GE for over forty years and instilled his hardworking ethics on us. Leo had a love for Irish History, Boston and politics. He would read up all these subjects heading into a family event and was ready for a debate at any given moment. He loved the challenge. He was also extremely proud of his grandchildren.He was the beloved husband of the late Helen M. (Niland) Fennell. Loving father of Leo M. Fennell & his wife Mary Ellen of Melrose, Sheila M. Fennell of Stoneham, Julie A. Sweeney & her husband Patrick of RI, and the late Michael P. Fennell. Cherished grandfather of Michael, Shay, Brendan, & Siobhan Fennell, and Jake, Shayne, & Nathaniel Sweeney. Brother of Marion Connolly & her late husband Martin of West Roxbury, Mary Villa & her husband Joseph of Weymouth Landing, the late Paul Fennell, & the late William Fennell. Brother-in-law of Linda Fennell of West Roxbury. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and family. Visiting Hours will be held on Sunday, Dec. 6, 2015 from 1-4 PM at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday, Dec. 7, 2015 at St. Mary's Church, Herbert St., Melrose. Interment at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. Relatives & friends are respectfully invited to attend. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made in Leo's name to the Parkinson's Disease Association, 72 E. Concord St., Suite C3, Boston, MA 02118 or to St. Mary's Church, 46 Myrtle St., Melrose, MA 02176.