Dr Leo Martello (1931-2000)
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Dr. Leo Louis Martello (1931-2000)It is with a heaviness of heart that we announce to the magickal community the unexpected passage of Dr. Leo Louis Martello, who crossed over into the Sumerland at the end of June 2000.
Born of a Sicilian immigrant farming family during the Depression Era, he eventually settled in New York City where he lived most of his adult life and through to his death.
Leo was the first to sponsor a public magickal circle in New York back in the 70s when Witchcraft as a religion was little-known, let alone public. During his life he consulted to a number of traditions and covens and aided in the development of their unique books of shadows. He was a respected elder of the Trinacrian Rose Coven (Church) based in Medford, Massachusetts.
During his life,
Dr. Martello founded the "Witches Anti-Defamation League", later renamed the "Witches Anti-Discrimination Lobby" (WADL), as one of the first Witch and Pagan Civil Rights organizations in the USA. Its existence eventually spawned many similar groups with similar names long after Leo passed its operation on to other capable hands.
Leo Martello was an author of a book and manuscripts on the "Craft of the Wise" from his perspective of a Sicilian heritage. His works were the first to be published in the USA regarding Sicilian Witchcraft within the constraints placed on him by his elders.
Following Leo's wishes, Rev. HPS Lori Bruno of Medford, MA. an elder of Leo's tradition and administrator of his estate, had his remains cremated per his wishes.
A memorial web page and guest book has been set up at:
http://www.geocities.com/dkirkbost/leo-martello.html
Stories, remembrances, or messages of condolence may be posted at the memorial web site, or may be sent to Lori Bruno per below. Those seeking to issue a more substantial remembrance may wish to consider making a donation in Leo's name to their local HIV/AIDS related charity or local animal shelter. Both were favorite charities of his.
Questions, inquiries, or other letters may be forwarded to:
Lori Bruno
33 Everlyn Ave. Medford, Ma 02155
EMAIL: lorib1818@aol.com
Note: Permission is granted to propagate this posting to mail lists, newsletters, web sites, and other pagan publications. We ask that when possible it be quoted in its entirety per above. -- Dennis Kirkpatrick HP, Trinacrian Rose Coven dkirkbost@yahoo.com
O gracious Lady who gives rest, O Lord of the twilight realms,
We do thank thee for guiding our friend
To the golden portals of the beauteous
Lands beyond...
convery, we do ask, the love and good wishes of Leo Martello,
And for those good friends who yet remain behind.
