Leo H. Sorel Jr.

began his last TREK on April 28, 2026, at the age of 86. Leo loved his family with all his heart and was held in that love as he peacefully passed.

Leo was born April 6th, 1940, in Washington DC, the son of Leo and Dorothy Sorel. After WW2, his family moved to Hollywood, Florida. After graduating from South Broward High School (amazing “wet” class of 1958), he served 30 years in the U.S. Navy of which eight years was at sea. He swam in six of the seven seas. He taught Aerology at the U.S. Naval Academy and retired from the Navy as a Senior Chief Aerographer's Mate. He went to college, earning a terminal degree (MFA) in Fine Art, at the Maryland Institute in Baltimore, MD. Having found a talent for teaching at the Naval Academy, he taught college for a second career of 25 years.

Leo was devoted to his family. Leo’s son, Scott David Sorel and his youngest daughter, Deborah Renee’ Sorel Hall, both born in the Philippines, preceded him. His two sisters, Leona McGee and June Tomasulo, his grandma Edna S. Robinson, and his loving, hard working parents also went ahead.

One of the greatest joys of Leo's retirement was the birth of his grandson, Nicholas Ethan Katz, CAA. He relocated to Florida at that time to be close to his immediate family. He is survived by his loving daughter Denise Sorel Katz and her husband Marvin, who held a special place in his heart. His memory will be cherished by Nicholas (Daniela), Denise (Marvin) and a large, beloved family spanning Florida, Staten Island, NY, Massachusetts, and Oklahoma."

Leo loved his family with all his heart and was held in that love as he peacefully passed. He loved his G-d, friends and the United States Navy.

Leo was a man of great kindness, humor, keen intellect and an adventurous spirit.

In recognition of Leo’s life and military service, his cremains will be inurned at Hunter’s Hollywood Memorial Gardens during a ceremony that will also serve as a celebration of his life. The family looks forward to gathering with all of Leo’s dear friends at that time to share stories and toast to his memory. Details regarding the date and time of this gathering will be shared once finalized.