LeRoy Catania

Nino LeRoy Catania was called to be the lead baritone horn for Lord’s heavenly concert and marching band on March 15, 2024 at the age of 82. Other than the love he had for his beloved wife, Dolores, music was his lifelong passion and love. Music made him happy and he loved sharing his happiness with others through his musical talents. LeRoy was born in Eureka, CA on August 20, 1941 to Nino and Mary Catania. At a young age, his parents gave him lessons on the accordion. According to his parents, every Italian boy should know how to play, even though he was half Italian and half Portuguese. He played music in an accordion band and played solos at the California State Fair with the old Turlock Junior Band. LeRoy played numerous times with the old timers at the Portuguese Festas, playing the Fado and Chamarita. In his youth, he attended Mountain View grammar school. During this time, his musical talents consisted of playing the trumpet and the baritone horn, both which he played in the school band. He also enjoyed playing sports in grammar school. LeRoy started attending Turlock High School. In high school, his classes included business courses and music courses. He excelled with the baritone horn, winning the Music Educators Associate State Championship in his junior and senior year. In 1960, LeRoy graduated from Turlock High School and started to attend Modesto Junior College where his love for music followed him. While at MJC, he was the student instructor for the MJC pep band. In 1963, he graduated from MJC and started attending classes at Cal State Stanislaus where his classes would be held at the Stanislaus County Fair Grounds. He would reminisce about his time at Cal State Stan. He used to say that one of his classes was in the large exhibit on the far west of the fairgrounds. While he was in class, a turkey show was being held and he could hear “lots of gobbling.” Because of this, Cal State Stanislaus earned its nickname of “Turkey Tech.” After attending classes at Cal State Stanislaus, LeRoy joined the California National Guard in Turlock. At a later date, he was transferred to the 49th division headquarters in Modesto. During this time, he worked as the staff sergeant of operations and intelligence. He was honorably discharged after 6 years. During his school years he worked at Patterson Frozen Foods, and he decided after finishing school it was time to find a permanent career. Banking was his choice. LeRoy worked as a bank teller at United California Bank and was promoted to the lending section where he quickly excelled to the title of assistant vice president. He worked in the banking industry for 21 years until he decided to switch careers. This time around he worked in the insurance field with Allstate Insurance. He worked with Allstate for 17 years. LeRoy was the first neighborhood agent in Turlock with his own office across from TID. Through his years with Allstate, he was awarded many trips, awards, and made many new friends. After his 17 years with Allstate, a career change was on the horizon. LeRoy started working in real estate with Century 21 M&M and Associates. As a realtor, he once again enjoyed helping new and past clients. LeRoy started to slow down from his three hat career in banking, insurance, and real estate. He enjoyed his “God’s Little 5 Acres” where he raised cattle. He also had a favorite hobby – antique picking with his favorite partner and friend, his wife, Dolores. The two were married for many years. Just about every weekend consisted of their antiquing ritual and was their date time together. Every Friday and Saturday, when the weather permitted, LeRoy and Dolores would go to numerous estate and garage sales looking for unique pieces. After their search, they continued to enjoy each other’s company over breakfast. Both he and his wife loved this special time together and always looked forward to it. His love of music followed him throughout the years. He participated and played in Mo-Band, Turlock Music, Cal State Stanislaus Band, Gottschalk Concert Band, and Hilmar Community Band. In addition to his musical affiliations, LeRoy was a member of the Knights of Columbus. He was also a proud member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church where he served as head usher at the Saturday evening mass for numerous years. LeRoy will be deeply missed by so many people. He leaves behind his wife, daughters, and grandchildren. May he rest in peace and play his peaceful music for the Almighty. On Wednesday, March 27, 2024 a visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Turlock Funeral Home. At 11:30 a.m., a rosary and funeral mass will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Following the mass, LeRoy will be laid to rest at Turlock Memorial Park. The family invites guests for a reception following the burial at Turlock Funeral Home, in the Small Chapel. This will be a time to partake in lunch and share memories of LeRoy Catania.

Tributes

LeRoy Catania

August 20, 1941 - March 15, 2024