Obituary of Leonard Motchkavitz

Leonard J. (“Lenny”) MOTCHKAVITZ –on July 31, 2022, of Great Neck, NY and Ocala, FL after having lived a full and meaningful life to the age of 95. Lenny was the husband of Joan (1929-2007), his beloved wife for 58 years, with whom he had two devoted sons, Bobby (Mellania) and Russell (Vickie).

Lenny's family and friends celebrate his life, his dedicated service to his hometown, his strong work ethic, and his deep commitment to unselfishly supporting and enhancing the lives of his wife and children. His sons are heartbroken and forever grateful for his unconditional love and support.

Lenny was born and reared in Great Neck along with 12 siblings including his dear and identical twin George (1927–2016) with whom he shared many significant life experiences. Lenny moved to Ocala in 2009 and lived in the same neighborhood as his surviving brother Ronnie (Joan) and sister Dorothy (1929–2009). Throughout the years in Ocala, Lenny and Ronnie were in nearly daily contact by phone or visits. During the last three years of his life, Lenny received loving, personal care and friendly companionship from his nurse, Kareen Superville. Her presence and kindness has been a blessing to the family.

Lenny and George were inseparable throughout their lives: in their younger years working together on the family farm; serving together in the US Navy; founding and working together as master plumbers (M & P Plumbing & Heating) serving Great Neck for over 45 years; and serving and supporting Great Neck and Nassau County for over 70 years as active members of the Alert Fire Company (“Alerts”).

Lenny was forever proud and fully committed to his involvement with the Alerts and fire fighting in general, attaining the rank of Chief (1969–1972) and President. He also served for many years on the Alerts Board of Trustees and as Chairman of the Board. In addition, he served as President of the Eighth Battalion Past Chiefs Association and as Chairman of the Nassau County Fire Commission. Lenny was honored as the Schaeffer Fireman of the Year and participated in the authorization and implementation of the new Alert Fire House that continues to serve Great Neck.

Joan worked at the US Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, for over 30 years, operating the post office and running her travel business. Lenny and Joan’s hard work and sacrifice provided their sons opportunity to graduate college and pursue successful careers in engineering and finance/information technology respectively.

Lenny’s passing is a sad loss to his loving nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews with whom he shared close relationships.

Unbridled of all physical discomforts and constraints, Lenny is now reunited with Joan, George and other deceased siblings and extended family members, his grandson, Brandon (1984-1992), and countless friends he made throughout his life.

Visitation will be held at the Alert Fire Company, 555 Middle Neck Road, Great Neck on Friday, August 5, 2022 from 5:30 to 8:00 PM with Firematic Service at 7:30 PM. Interment at 10:30 AM on Saturday, August 6, 2022 at All Saints Cemetery, 855 Middle Neck Road, Great Neck, with buffet meal to follow at the Alert Fire Company. Lenny will be laid to his final and well-deserved rest next to Joan and other members of his extended family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to: "In Memory of Joan Motchkavitz," Hematology and Medical Oncology Research Fund, c/o David Nanus, MD, 525 E. 68th St., Starr Pavilion, 3rd floor, New York, NY 10021.