Ridgefield resident John Edward Leslie, 59, has died

John Edward Leslie, 59, of Ridgefield, died on Tuesday, May 2, 2023.

John’s family moved to Ridgefield in 1965 when he was very young. The family had been living in Flushing, NY, but decided to move to the country to fulfill the American Dream by building a home in beautiful Ridgefield. John attended school in Ridgefield from kindergarten through high school and made lasting friendships along the way.

John was introduced to mini-bikes by his friends, which resulted in a lasting love of motocross bikes and street motorcycles. He and his brother, Jim and other friends bonded together by racing at motocross tracks.

When John was old enough to drive, his love expanded to cars and trucks. His prized 1969 Chevrolet Camaro SS won several “best in class” awards at car shows. Since he loved cars so much, he stayed in that line of business and worked at a few Chevrolet dealerships: Wilton Motors, Maritime Motors, Fairfield Chevrolet and most recently, parts manager at H & L Chevrolet.

John leaves behind a small family and many friends. He is survived by his mother, Vera Leslie, his brother, Jim Leslie, and his nephews Tyler and Michael Leslie. John was predeceased by his father, John Everett Leslie.

Family and friends will be received on Sunday, May 21, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Kane Funeral Home; 25 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield. Interment will take place privately.