Obituary of Leonhard Biller

Leonhard F. Biller, 96, of Basking Ridge, NJ, passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 29, 2025.

Born in December 1928 in Germany, Leo immigrated to the United States with his wife, Erika, where he built a life marked by intelligence, dedication, and innovation.  Leo embraced the new opportunities in his adopted country.

Leo earned his bachelor’s degree from Seton Hall University and began a long and accomplished career in Research and Development at American Hoechst Corporation. He invented an assembly for processing photosensitive materials—an innovation that led him to travel extensively across the U.S. and abroad, promoting the product on behalf of his company.

Leo was deeply committed to safety and leadership in his field, proudly serving as President of the Industrial Fire Chiefs’ Association of New Jersey from 1989 to 1991. He was also a dedicated member of the Masonic Lodge.

Leo also had a passion for amateur (ham) radio, through which he connected with people around the world.

In his later years, Leo remained intellectually curious and socially active. He kept in touch with the daily news and events of his hometown Hassfurt, Germany.   Leo and his longtime companion, Gerda, enjoyed traveling together and were active members of the community at the Deutscher Club in Clark, NJ, where they shared many meaningful moments.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nickolaus and Kunigunde; his wife, Erika; and his brother, Hans. He is survived by his beloved partner, Gerda (McGinnis); his brother and devoted caregiver Hartmut and sister-in-law Gertraud; and his nieces Barbara and Christine and their families, who will remember him with much love and admiration.

A private service will be held at the Bailey Funeral Home in Mendham, NJ, with interment to follow at Somerset Hills Memorial Park in Basking Ridge NJ. 

Leo will be remembered for his inventive mind, generous spirit, and the captivating stories he loved to tell.