Windsor Journal

It is with much sadness to report that Jules Lenard, a 73 year member of the Fire Department has passed away at his home last evening at the age of 91. 

Jules became a member of the Windsor Volunteer Fire Department before the United States entered World War II, joining the company in 1940.  He was inspired by his father who was a firefighter before him.  After joining the fire service, Jules worked his way through the ranks and became a Chief in 1965. In December of 2004, Jules received a special award from Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz during a public service awards ceremony held at Central Connecticut State University in New Britain. Jules was also recognized by the department as 2005 Firefighter of the Year and congratulated for 65 years of volunteer public service.  

Windsor Fire Chief William Lewis says Jules Lenard is a glowing example for all firefighters and serves as a model of inspiration to all public safety volunteers.  “Jules had many qualities that made him an exemplary Windsor firefighter including  his vast knowledge and willingness to impart that knowledge to our younger members. His outstanding performance, leadership and passion as a firefighter have greatly contributed to the safety of the Windsor community for decades.  Our hearts are heavy, but we are also deeply grateful for the service of this local hero.”   

Jules A. Lenard, Jr., 91, of Windsor, beloved husband for 64 years of Helen (Bach) Lenard, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 16, 2013 at his home. He was born on November 5, 1921 in Hartford to the late Jules A. and Frances (LeGeyt) Lenard. A lifelong resident of Windsor, Jules served his country honorably in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He was a member, since 1946, of the Washington Lodge #70 AF & AM in Windsor and was a member of the York Rite and Washington Commandery #1 K.T. Before his retirement he had worked at Pratt & Whitney Aircraft in East Hartford as an inspector. Jules was a respected member of the Windsor Volunteer Fire Department for 73 years, one of the longest lengths of active service in state history. He received many accommodations for his dedication and service to the community. His outstanding leadership and passion as a firefighter made him the mentor to many of the younger members. He was also a member of the First Church in Windsor, Congregational. In addition to his wife Helen, he is survived by his sons, Robert B. Lenard, Gary A. Lenard and his wife, Connie, his beloved granddaughter, Julia A. Lenard, as well as several cherished nephews and many loving friends. Besides his parents he was predeceased by his sisters, Frances Lenard and Dorothy Smith. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 19, 2 p.m. at the Carmon Windsor Funeral Home, 807 Bloomfield Ave., Windsor. Burial with Military and Fire Department honors will be in Windsor's Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Jules' family will receive friends on Friday, January 18, from 5-8 p.m. with a Masonic Service at 7 p.m. at the funeral home. The Lenard Family wishes to thank the Hartford Medical Group in Windsor, The VNA and Hospice care givers for their support. In lieu of flowers donations in Jules' memory may be made to the Windsor Vol. Fire Dept., PO Box 128, Windsor CT 06095 or the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 185 Silas Deane Highway, Wethersfield CT 06109 or the American Cancer Society, 825 Brook St., I-91 Tech Ctr., Rocky Hill CT 06067.