Leonard “Lenny” F. Harkin, Jr., 70, of Swansea, MA, formerly of Newport, RI passed away on Saturday, August 26, 2017 at Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River, MA after battling a long-term illness.

Lenny was born on March 22, 1947 in Newport, RI. He was the son of the late Leonard F. Harkin and the late Yvonne (Boone) Silvia. He was the husband of Joanne (Moniz) Harkin for the past 20 years.

Lenny was an Army veteran, who served two tours in Vietnam. He retired from Cardi Corp (Newport Redi-Mix) as a driver/shop steward. He was a former member of the Tiverton Rod and Gun Club, the Viking Riders II and an active member of the VFW. As a Viking Rider, Lenny united his passions for both motorcycles and service, brightening the lives of many by dedicating his time to helping those in need. When he wasn’t riding his Harley or volunteering, he loved hunting, fishing and scuba diving in his spare time. Lenny was an avid musician and kept Newport hopping with his band “Just Us,” enlivening crowds at Leo’s First and Last Stop; everyone also took to the dance floor when he continued his love for music as a DJ. Lenny had a magnetic and witty personality that brought happiness to everyone he encountered .Lenny loved his friends and family; he lived a full and happy life

He is survived by his wife Joanne (Moniz) Harkin, his children Dawn Oliveira (Tiverton, RI); Jameson Levesque (Swansea, MA); and Brandise Luciano (Swansea, MA) —along with their respective spouses David, Karen, and Keith. Lenny is also survived by his siblings Linda Chittam (Newport, RI); Dale Harkin (Portsmouth, RI); Anne “Squeaky” Gill-Cooney (Saunderstown, RI); and Frances Gill-Turano (CO). He also leaves behind five grandchildren, Jacquelyn Oliveira; Dean Oliveira Courtney Levesque; Mason Luciano; Laci Luciano; and one great grandson, Trevor St. Martin.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, September 1, from 10:00am-11:00am at the Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport, followed by a funeral service at 11:00am in the funeral home. Burial with military honors will follow in Newport Memorial Park, Middletown.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Lenny’s name to a Veterans Charity of your choice.