Perhaps it was his first-hand understanding of growing up in poverty, or his dedication to the memory of his supportive and determined parents, or even an appreciation for his citizenship in a country which he truly felt “Opens all the world’s doors”, that gave him the incentive to maintain his extensive schedule. Most likely, it was a combination of all of these and more, that made Les the man and businessman that he will always be remembered as.

Armed with only a wheelbarrow and a shovel, Les started Modern Continental Construction Company, in 1967, with his partner and friend, Kenneth Anderson. His unbreachable foundation of principles and values lef the company to consistently surpass expectations for quality, growth, and innovation.

In leading the company, Les Marino stressed the importance of extensive organizational communication, management approachability, employee participation at all levels, and a well established overall company mission. Through effective management and the realization that an organization’s greatest resource is its people, Les showed that a company can thrive and grow far beyond expectations. At weekly meetings open to all employees, Les shared his personal and business philosophy, which he based on four principles: love, discipline, justice, and respect. “I love my employees the way a man loves his children,” Les admitted, “You give them the opportunity to realize their potential while instilling discipline”

From his first project (a $4,000 sidewalk rehabilitation) through the later multimillion dollar highway project, Les Marino prided himself on delivering the highest quality services. As strong as was his commitment to delivering a high quality product, so was his commitment to on-the-job safety. Modern became a leader in safety management within the construction industry in the New England region. Often recognized for excellence in safety, Modern was the recipient of several Gold and Silver Safety Awards from the Central Artery Tunnel Project’s safety incentive program.

Modern also underwent an extensive diversification process to broaden both the company’s scope and its expertise. From agriculture to transportation, to healthcare and beyond, with Les Marino’s leadership, Modern became a leader in many industries. Marino threaded his own convictions throughout the fabric of the company. His personal commitment to a healthy life-style brought Ristorante Marino, Marino Lookout Farm, and The Marino Center For Progressive Health into existence, along with joint venture partnerships into the transportation industry with both boat and bus operations.

With good reason, one might wonder how a construction company related to a restaurant, a farm, a clinic, and transportation businesses. But the answer is simple. Lelio Marino; a man who stood on the foundational belief that “success is manifested through the degree of commitment.” And, what was the secret behind all of his success? “The secret is, there is no secret,” Les would reply with a smile.

Les Marino passed away on November 12, 2004. "Les tirelessly pursued the American dream and built one of the nation's largest construction companies," said Ken Anderson, his dearest friend and business partner since Modern Continental's beginning. "His passion and dedication will be sorely missed by everyone he touched."