In Memoriam - Len Napoli
(July 7, 1950 - February 20, 2021)
The March issue of the Paw Print is dedicated to our beloved friend and supporter, Leonard (Len) Napoli, who passed away in the comfort of his home surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, February 20, 2021.
Len found Brown Dog Foundation when his dog Murphy crossed Rainbow Bridge and he was searching for a way to memorialize him. He'd written a poem and wanted to make a donation in Murphy's memory to create a webpage that would live on beyond Murphy's days. He reached out and worked with our Founder, Carol, to do just that and our very first "Memorial Fund Page" was created. You can read the poem at Len Napoli & Murphy Fund.
A few months later, Len reached out to Carol again and asked if she'd ever considered publishing a book. Carol had thought about it - but writing wasn't her strong suit. Well, lucky for her, it was Len's... and it just happened to be on his "bucket-list” to complete.
Over the next few years, Len and Carol worked diligently to create BROWN DOG, finally publishing it in 2016, just in time for our 10th Anniversary. We were also thrilled that he was able to attend our 10th Anniversary Wine Dinner in Nashville with us!
Len had friends from all walks of life and all seasons. Friends from his days at IUP, friends in the animal rescue world, friends in the book world, friends in his community... literally, everywhere he went. And, the furry-friends loved him a great deal too! Murphy, Petie, Cali and Rusty were likely quite excited to meet him at the Bridge that day.
He will be deeply missed by those of us he leaves behind - his adoring wife, Theresa, his sons, John and Matt, his adorable grandchildren and the countless friends who were fortunate to know him.
To make a donation in memory of Len, please visit the Len Napoli & Murphy Fund. We will notify Len's family of the gifts we receive.
Donations ($1000) Received from: Donna O'Leary, David Hawkins & IUP Family, Jill & Joe Boyle, James Yavorsky, Carol Smock, Sharon Sheilds
