Leonard A. Gabryelski III, 59, Martinez, Ga., entered into eternal rest with our heavenly father on March 15, 2013, surrounded by those who loved him, after a brave battle with cancer.

The son of the late Leonard A. Gabryelski Jr. and Marilyn Brown Gabryelski, he was born in Fort Dix, N.J. He was the beloved husband of Janet Jacobs Gabryelski, who survives.

He is also survived by four children, Andrea (Marcus) Peterson, L. Adam (Lindsay) Gabryelski IV, Douglas (Nora) Gabryelski and Julie (Tyler) Gabryelski; four siblings, Diane (Rich) Hurley, Michael (Susan) Gabryelski, John (Anne) Gabryelski and Steven (Sandra) Gabryelski; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, and dear friends. He was a beloved "Poppy" to his four grandchildren, Hannah, Brice and Cooper Peterson and Callie Blair Gabryelski.

He spent his childhood in Niagara Falls, N.Y., with his four younger siblings and frequently spent time on Lake Erie, where he developed his love for boating and water activities.

He began his 39-year career with Bechtel Power Corporation in 1974, which took him to Maryland, Ohio, Mississippi and Kansas. He settled his family in Georgia in 1989, where he became a devoted employee of SRR at Savannah River Site.

His wife of 35 years was the love of his life, and the memories they had will be cherished forever. Together they raised four children who loved and respected their father for the tough yet gentle and caring dad he was. Even in his final days, his example of strength and courage will impact many lives for years to come.

He never met a stranger and was always the life of the party. He will be remembered by those who loved him for his music, boating and camping. Family time was one of his greatest joys. Many will share stories of fun, laughter and love around the campfire for years to come.

Funeral services are 11 a.m. Friday at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church, Rev. Michael Roverse celebrant.

Calling is 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Platt's Funeral Home, Evan, Ga.

Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society, 2607 Commons Blvd., Augusta, GA 30909.

Condolences may be left at www.plattsfuneralhome.com or sent to Platt's Funeral Home, 337 N. Belair Road, Evans, GA 30809.