Leo F. Matrangola, 62; Chief of Bel Air Police

Leo F. Matrangola “Chief”, 62, had a strong finish after his brave battle with leukemia. He passed away on his terms surrounded by loved ones on July 12, 2015, at his home in Street.

Born in Cape May County, N.J., he was the son of the late Francis Joseph and Mary Ulicia (Souders) Matrangola, who moved their young family to Harford County, where Leo made his lifelong home with the love of his life Diane and their son Geoffrey. In his youth, he was an athlete who enjoyed playing and coaching basketball, football and lacrosse and later enjoyed the sports of fishing and kayaking.

Leo’s passion was to serve his community. He entered the Baltimore County Police Department as a cadet in September 1970. While serving as a law enforcement officer, he earned his bachelor of science from Towson State University in 1981, graduated from the FBI National Academy in 1985 and completed his master’s degree from University of Baltimore in 1989.

Upon his retirement from Baltimore County in 1991 as a lieutenant, Leo started his second career in law enforcement as chief of police for the town of Bel Air. He served in his hometown for the next 24 years until his second retirement on July 3, 2015. Leo aka “Grumps” was a leader and mentor to countless people who will carry on his service.

Leo’s greatest love was that for his family and his hilltop home. He cherished time on the farm with friends and family who enjoyed beautiful views, horses, dogs, cats, ATV rides and spending time together on the back porch.

Chief Matrangola is survived by his wife Diane Matrangola; son Geoffrey Leo; daughter-in-law Dede; and his granddaughters Kaytin (15) and Hannah (13) of Columbia; as well as siblings Paul Matrangola (Esther) of Bel Air, Peter Matrangola (Missy) of Pennsylvania, Angela Larkin (Paul) of North Carolina, Theresa Raker (Doug) of Florida and Gemma Regan (Mike) of Indiana.

Related: Bel Air Police Chief Passed Away

A memorial service is planned for Police Chief Leo F. Matrangola, on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2015, at Bel Air High School, 100 Heighe Street, Bel Air, from 1 to 2 p.m. A reception is planned after the memorial service in the Bel Air High School cafeteria from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

As Leo was an active board member and supporter of many community charities, the family would prefer donations, in lieu of flowers, to any of the following three organizations: SARC of Harford County, PO Box 1207, Bel Air, MD 21014; Mann House, Inc., 14 Williams St., Bel Air, MD 21014; or Boys & Girls Clubs of Harford County, PO Box 1106, Aberdeen, MD 21001.