Robert Leo Coleman

Robert Leo Coleman, 78, of Worcester, passed away on Friday, March 30, 2012, in his home, surrounded by loving family. Leo is survived by his loving wife of fifty years, Shirley J. (Croft) Coleman; three daughters, Catherine Coleman of Webster, Lynda Chilton and her husband Richard of New Braintree and Karen Coleman of North Smithfield, RI; two brothers, Donald Coleman of Mount Pleasant, SC and Raymond Coleman of West Boylston; two granddaughters, Jessica and Rebecca Chilton. He was predeceased by two brothers, Francis and William Coleman. Leo was born in Worcester, son of Michael J. and Helen T. (Shea) Coleman. He graduated from North High School and earned his Master's Degree in Teaching from Worcester State University. He served his nation proudly in the United States Army Military Intelligence during the Vietnam Era. Mr. Coleman was a teacher for thirty-five years, in the Worcester Public Schools, before retiring in 1994. While teaching in the public school system he received the Horace Mann Grant in 1986, 1987 and 1988. He was also awarded the Academic Freedom Award from the North East Regional Conference on Social Studies. He had also been teaching "English as a Second Language" at the Adult Learning Center from 1973 until his retirement from there in 2007. He was a member of Saint Joan of Arc Church and the church choir. He was formerly a member of The Worcester Men of Song, a barbershop harmony group. He was also a former member and Past President of Military Intelligence of New England. Leo loved his family, his students both children and adults and was dedicated to their learning and growth. The family wishes to thank the UMass Memorial Oncology Team, especially Tina, and the UMass Memorial Hospice Team, especially Paulette and Betty. Leo's funeral will be held on Monday, April 2 from MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester, with a Mass at 11:30 a.m. in Saint Joan of Arc Church, 570 Lincoln Street, Worcester. Interment will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, North Grafton. Calling hours for Leo will be held on Sunday, April 1, from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. in the funeral home. Those who wish to honor and remember Leo through a donation, may make their contributions to The Mustard Seed, 93 Piedmont Street, Worcester, MA 01609. To leave a message in Leo's online register book or for directions, please visit www.mercadantefuneral.com.