Leland John McQuade

Leland John McQuade, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, died on July 5, 2026, with his family by his side. Born in Teaneck, NJ, Leland lived a life rich in love, adventure, and service.

Leland proudly served in the United States Air Force Europe from 1954 to 1958 with the 36th Tactical Fighter Wing in Bitburg, Germany. While stationed there, he toured Europe extensively in his prized MGA convertible, an experience that helped shape the man he would become. Following his service and studies at Fairleigh Dickinson University, he began a 35-year career in sales management with McBee Systems, then "retired" only to spend another 24 years working at Enterprise - continuing to work right up until two weeks before his death.

In 1969, Leland married his wife, Eileen, and together they began a lifelong journey of building a loving family, traveling to new places, and embracing everything life brought their way. Leland was a man of many interests, from holding a private pilot's license, to co-owning a sport fishing charter boat with friends, to singing at Carnegie Hall with his men's choir group. He loved nothing more than taking Eileen up flying or out on his boat, a passion that fed his lifelong enthusiasm for being in the air and on the water.

A natural leader and devoted volunteer, Leland gave generously of his time throughout his life - coaching youth sports, serving with the Oakland First Aid Squad, volunteering at his church, with the Bergen Volunteers Chore Service, and in numerous efforts supporting the veterans community. An avid kayaker and cyclist, Leland found a way to combine his love of the outdoors with his passion for giving back - paddling with the Hackensack Riverkeeper on trips up and down the East Coast, and completing multiple MS150 and NYC 5 Boro Bike tours in support of causes close to his heart.

He also found great joy in hiking, camping, and tending to his garden, hobbies he took from his mother, whom he deeply loved and shared a special bond with. Leland cherished a lifetime of visits to Cambridge, NY, spending time with his mother, whose independent, adventurous spirit inspired him throughout his life.

In his later years, Leland found his greatest joy in his grandchildren - looking forward to every game, dance recital, and sailing event, and cheering them on at every turn.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Eileen McQuade, and their three children, Craig, Brian, and Colleen, along with their respective spouses who Leland deeply adored, Lenore, Sally, and Stephen. Leland also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Charlie, John, Chloe, Charlotte, Emily, Owen, and Claire, and his sister, Barbara Rhodes.

Leland's spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him. He will be remembered for his warm heart, his laughter, and his unwavering love for his family and friends. A celebration of Leland's life will be held to bring together all who had the privilege of knowing this extraordinary man.

Visiting will take place on Tuesday, July 14 from 4pm to 7pm at Oakland Memorial Home. The funeral Liturgy will be Wednesday, July 15 at 10:30am at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Pompton Lakes, followed by interment at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington.

The funeral service will be livestreamed by St. Mary’s for those who may not be able to attend in person. To watch the Mass from either facebook or youtube:

https://www.facebook.com/StMarysPomptonLakesFunerals

https://www.youtube.com/c/StMarysPomptonLakes