03/19/2026
DEAR ALBANY NY COMMUNITY
With deep love and heartfelt sorrow, We share the passing of our beloved downtown Albany community member, Kenneth Leo St. Denis of Morton Ave.
**Celebration of a Life Well-Lived**
For the community, a “Celebration of Life Party” will be held this spring or early summer in his beloved garden, South End Butterfly Sanctuary (SEBS). Potted plant donations are welcome and will be planted in his memory at SEBS, symbolizing his enduring love for nature and community. Any donations in his name are appreciated by this site.
**A Life of Service and Inspiration**
Kenneth underwent what was intended as a routine heart surgery. Tragically, he never regained consciousness after the operation. He peacefully passed away on Wednesday, March 11, with Laura (Co-Founder of SEBS, Fireside Toastmasters Albany NY and his best friend), and his son, Shawn, holding his hands. At 75 years old, he leaves behind a legacy of kindness and dedication.
**A Significant Contribution**
Known affectionately as “Leo,” he made meaningful contributions to the community through his presence. As a co-founder of the Fireside Toastmasters Club of Albany, Rockland Toastmasters (formally Nyack Toastmasters) and Monsey Toastmasters. Additionally, he is a past member of Bethlehem Toastmasters and Fort Orange Toastmasters. Leo created a nurturing environment where residents developed their speaking and leadership skills, gaining confidence and personal growth. His stories about aging, speaking without “ums,” military service, and gratitude touched and inspired hundreds.
**A Passion for Green Spaces**
Leo supported downtown Albany’s greening efforts. A master carpenter, he donated his talents to create the nature bench and kiosk at the South End Butterfly Sanctuary, now loved by visitors. This site, which promotes the importance of urban greenspace and pollinator habitats, will be featured at the 2026 HVCC Flower Show Expo, bringing joy to over 17,000 attendees. He also built a chicken coop, grape arbors, and a gazebo locally. Showing that growth knows no age, Leo started his first carpentry studio at age 71, creating bowls, boxes, and woodworks for loved ones.
**A Man of Many Skills**
Leo was a true jack of all trades. Beyond carpentry, he repaired and sold cars, handled electrical and plumbing challenges, and even had a lifelong career setting up cancer treatment machines in hospitals and building movie displays at theaters. He also became an MS engineer and taught computer classes. His motto was, “Just start with something small, and the rest will follow,” reflecting his resilience and optimism.
**A Spiritual Heart**
Leo was a minister within the Vibrationalism movement and a founding board member of the Good Vibes Church. He performed last rites and delivered sermons, generously sharing his spiritual wisdom. He carried a rock in his vest as a constant reminder of his gratitude for life.
**A Hero's Heart**
As a Marine during the Korean War, Leo served overseas and witnessed great pain, including the bombing of his base—where he had built barracks—while watching it on TV during leave. He also studied as an Arabic translator. Injured by shrapnel and affected by Agent Orange, Leo endured lifelong pain in his hands and feet. Yet, his spirit remained strong.
**A Loving Guardian**
A devoted godfather and cherished friend, Leo lived with the Rose Family of Morton Ave for over seven years, helping to raise their two remarkable young women. Leo was also married previously, leaving behind biological and adopted children.
