More than 400 people gathered together for a candlelight vigil Aug. 9 to honor the life of longtime local businessman Fabian Lenis, 43, who was found hanged last week in his FedEx store at 8 Bond St. He is survived by his 19-year-old daughter Jenelle, who attends college in New York City.
Friends and Bond Street neighbors Patty Foley-Davis and La Rotonda owner Luigi Muto collected donations for Jenelle Lenis, which they had planned to present at the vigil. Together they raised more than $7,000.
“You feel very good seeing all those people that care,” said Muto, who also organized the vigil. “I was very surprised. Very touching.”
Police blocked off Bond Street to vehicular traffic for the hour-long Spanish language ceremony whose theme was togetherness and keeping faith in God. The crowd sang traditional songs and prayers, including “Hail Mary” and “Our Father.”
After the crowd was sprinkled with holy water, the FedEx was unlocked for those who wanted to pay their respects.
Foley-Davis said Lenis was perhaps the first Hispanic business owner in the Village of Great Neck Plaza. He is the former owner of a UPS store, also located in the Village of Great Neck Plaza.
After his death, a makeshift memorial was immediately created outside Lenis’ storefront.
Longtime friend Ruben Lopez described Lenis as a very kind man and was shocked by his death. Although Lopez said Lenis had his own demons, he never expected him to take his own life.
Jenelle Lenis is currently in talks with the landlord and might continue to operate the FedEx, Muta said.
Additional reporting by John D’Olimpio.
