For over 65 years I’ve been honored and blessed to be a friend of Leo Vergnetti. Throughout this time, I’ve come to see first-hand that Leo’s gift is to serve other people – – he’s served his family, his friends and his community. He’s a pro at it! In the gospel of Matthew 10 it states, “The gift you have received, give as a gift.” Today we come together in thanksgiving for our friend and colleague, Leo Vergnetti and to recognize all of the gifts Leo has shared with us over the years.   First, as a family man, Leo is a father, grandfather and great-grandfather and son of his beautiful, 103 years-old mother,Angeline. His family life and compassion are an example to be followed. Leo has been an example to his children and grandchildren by living out his strong values of family and hard work. His respect and love for his mom is one of reverence and respect. We are all aware of Leo’s loss of his beloved wife, Carol over 25 years ago to breast cancer. His care and attention to her through that time was out of dedication and love to her. Also, the loss of his daughter, Lynne to lung cancer was extremely difficult. The response of our community to the loss of both Carol and Lynne speaks to the strong family bond Leo built with his family.   Second, is the one I know best, which is Leo as a friend. He is constantly supporting, giving, guiding and yes, over these 65 years we’ve laughed a lot too. One story I remember when I first met Leo, we competed against each other on our high school golf teams. He played for Dunmore and I played for West Pittston High School. Leo remembers the day too and has been known to say “Holy Smokes, I’m was definitely going to lose tothis opponent because he was bringing his caddy! I didn’t him beat then, and I haven’t beaten him since.”   Third, as a man of our community Leo has been an aftercare coordinator for drug and alcohol abuse for over 40 years. His dedication to AA is his mantra. Leo “walks the walk”  – – no matter what day or what hour it may be, Leo is there for those in need and will do whatever he can do to help guide them on the pathway to good health. Leo’s monumental life of sacrifice exemplifies him sharing his “gifts” to help others in desperate need. In addition to his work with AA, Leo is on the Board of Ambassadors of the American Cancer Society. With both AA and the American Cancer Society, he’s doing God’s work with  without expecting any recognition.   To summarize this wonderful testimony of our friend, Leo, he constantly shares his “gifts” for the betterment of his family, his friends and our community her in NEPA. Simply said, Leo Vergnetti is a man of faith, family and friends.