Leonidas V. Lantzounis' Obituary
Leonidas “Leon” V. Lantzounis, 80, of Fort Myers, FL passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 5th, 2019, while in hospice. He fought hard against several medical issues that he could not overcome. Born in Manhattan to Vrasidas A. Lantzounis and Mary Angelson, he lived in New York until he, his wife, and son moved to Fort Myers in the early 90s.Leon was held in high regard by his friends and peers and very much loved by his family, who were by his side throughout his struggle. A tough guy on the outside, he was very gentle and caring on the inside. His loyalty could always be counted on. His sarcastic and sometimes questionable sense of humor always made people laugh.An athlete at heart, Leon loved sports. In his 20s, he joined the Yankees minor league team as a pitcher. In 1962, they brought him up to the majors for a short period before an arm injury ended his career. He was physically active throughout his entire life, going to the gym, lifting weights, swimming, bike riding, jogging, and walking. Most recently, in his 60s and 70s, he enjoyed playing several positions in the 50 Plus Softball League of Cape Coral.He was fascinated by nature. He would often relax out in his lanai, listening to the birds and watching them fly around his back yard. Going to the beach, swimming in the ocean, and laying in the sun were also things he thoroughly enjoyed.Gianna, his beloved wife of 48 years, and he were successful business owners in New York and in Fort Myers. He loved being his own boss and working beside the love of his life. Their latest business continues on in Fort Myers, with their son as manager.Nothing made him happier than being with his wife and family. He was always very grateful for both and was never shy about saying so. He will always be remembered as a loving, kind, and supportive husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. His legacy will live on with his family.Leon is survived by his spouse Gianna, son Greg, daughter Debbie, grandson Sean, granddaughter Nicole, great grandchildren Sean and Pearl, and sister Helen.A service will be held on Friday, October 18th (his birthday), 2019 at 1pm to celebrate his life. Guests will be received an hour before the ceremony, at 12pm. At the conclusion of the service, Leon will be laid to rest at the Memorial Gardens Cemetery. There will be a celebration honoring his life afterwards at 504 SW 10th Place, Cape Coral, 33991.The family would prefer to have a plant or flowers sent to the funeral home for the service.Arrangements for final care have been entrusted to Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers, Florida 33907, (239) 936-0555. To share a story or photo, leave a tribute or to offer a condolence at this difficult time please visit www.fortmyersmemorial.com and sign the guestbook.
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