Martin "Pops" Eli Leone

Martin Eli Leone, age 78, of Gold Canyon, Arizona, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

Martin was a proud native of Zwolle, LA and a member of the Choctaw-Apache Tribe of Ebarb. After graduating from high school, he answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Army. He served with distinction in Vietnam as a member of the storied Stinger Platoon, an experience that instilled in him a lifelong sense of brotherhood and discipline.

Upon returning home, Martin built a respected career as a Pipeliner. He was a dedicated member of Pipeliners Local Union 798, traveling across the country to work. He approached life with a hard-working spirit and a generous heart, leaving a lasting impression on all he met.

To those who loved him most, he was simply “Dad” or “Pops”. Marty was a man defined by his love of all sports, in particular football and the Arizona Cardinals. As soon as he heard rumor of a new stadium being built back in 2000, he quick bought season tickets while the games were still being held at Sun Devil stadium. He was then able to get early pick of seats when the new stadium opened in 2006, and never released the tickets. He and Diane even have their picture on the stadium’s Fan Wall.

Martin is survived by his devoted and loving wife of just over 37 years Diane Louise Leone; his sons Scott Leone, Joel Leone (wife Sarah), and Michael Leone; step-son Konrich Fuhrman (wife Cheri Fuhrman); and daughters Jamie Herl (husband Dennis), Julie Leone, and Natalie Cole. He is also survived by his brothers Pat Leone and Billy Leone (wife Marla); and his sister Gail Dooley-Burns (husband RJ). He leaves behind many cherished Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents Andrew and Mary Leone of Zwolle, Louisiana; his brother Wayne Leone; and sister Jane Paddie.

A service will be held followed by a reception on Monday, March 2, 2026 at 10:00 am at the Mountain View Lutheran Church located at 2122 S. Goldfield Rd. in Apache Junction, Arizona.