Leo A. Bain, Jr.

Leo A. Bain Jr. 90, of Fredonia, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday June 7, 2026. Born in Dunkirk on October 5, 1935, he was the husband of Sandra (Kolasa) Bain and son of the late Leo A. Bain, Sr. and Helen (Walas) Bain. 

A 1954 graduate of Cardinal Mindszenty, Leo carried the values and lessons learned there throughout his life. His career was distinguished by his work at National Grid, formerly known as Niagara Mohawk, from which he retired after many years of dedicated service.

Leo’s Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life. He served faithfully as a Eucharistic Minister at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, and regularly volunteered to support church fundraisers. His generosity extended beyond the church, as he volunteered at the Chautauqua County Home, where he assisted with weekly masses. His commitment to his faith and community was further demonstrated by his role as a 4th Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus Council 929.

Leo was also a passionate sports enthusiast, an interest he pursued both as a player and as a mentor. He coached sports teams at his alma mater, Cardinal Mindszenty, as well as Little League and Babe Ruth Baseball teams. His involvement in athletics extended to officiating as a referee for volleyball and basketball games and as an umpire for baseball. 

Above all, Leo treasured the time spent with his beloved family. He was a deeply devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who found his most precious moments in the company of those closest to him.

Survivors include his loving wife of 61 years, Sandra (Kolasa) Bain; whom he married on November 26, 1964; children Timothy J. (Michele Julian) Bain and Pamela Melber; grandchildren Matthieu (Sharon) Bain, Jonathan Bain, Sarah (Mark) Doud, Joseph (Margaret) Melber, Kathryn (Michael) Croneberger, Maeve (Michael) Alessi, and Erin (Mark Malysza) Melber; Great-grandsons Roman and Warren Li-Bain, Levi Doud, Simon and Theodore Melber; great-granddaughters Julie Doud and Cassidy Croneberger. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Darleen (late Carl) Calarco and also by many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Leo is preceded in death by his brother Donald Bain, and his brother-in-law Joseph J. Kolasa.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 11 a.m at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Roman Catholic Church; 328 Washington Ave, Dunkirk, NY. The family will be present at the church a half hour before mass starting at 10:30 a.m. Interment will be held in St. Mary's Cemetery. Arrangements are by R. Michael Mackowiak III; McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home, 736 Central Ave, Dunkirk, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Northern Chautauqua Catholic School; 336 Washington Avenue, Dunkirk, NY or to a charity of one's choice.