Leon Paul Bernard, age 86, of West Hartford, passed away Thursday January 29, 2026 at Hartford Hospital.  Born in New Rochelle, New York March 7, 1939, and initially a resident of Westport, Connecticut, Leon was the son of Margaret V. and Leopold (Leo) Bernard.  A long-time resident of West Hartford and formerly Plainville, Connecticut, he graduated from Staples High School in Westport and he dutifully and proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, stationed in Alaska and California.

A church organist for over 60 years at St. Luke in Westport, he had a strong interest in music, and all things trains, engines, locomotives, and railroads, in later years enjoying the Naugatuck Rail Train.  Besides his life-long hobby in trains, he enjoyed gardening, and annual visits for over 40 years to a timeshare at the Trapp Family Lodge and Resort in Stowe, Vermont.

He leaves his close friends Rev. Kumar, St. Luke Pastor, Richard Fitol, Mark Prisloe, Natasha Morant, many St. Luke parishioners, neighbors, and work-related associates including real estate development at T&M Building Co., and piano and commercial sales.  He also, in his later years, enjoyed NFL football, UConn men’s and women’s basketball, and broadcast mysteries.  He will be remembered for his congenial personality, strong devotion to his faith, and resident responsibilities including President of two condominium associations.

Services and visitation will take place with calling hours at the Harding Funeral Home on Friday, Feb. 6 from 4:00 -7:00 p.m. at 210 Post Rd. East, in Westport.  A Mass of Christian burial will be held directly at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7 at St. Luke Church, Long Lots Rd. in Westport.  Interment will follow immediately at Assumption Cemetery, Greens Farms.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions and donations may be made to St. Luke Church.