Leon D. Lancto

Leon D. Lancto, 80, of North Port Florida and formerly of Champlain, passed away Wednesday August 27, 2014 surrounded by family at the Tidwell Hospice House in Venice Fl. He was born in Lyon Mountain on July 30, 1934 son of the late Clifford and Laura (Varin) Lancto
Moreover, Leon’s entire life encircled his passion for music and his gift to entertain. In the band, his talents included lead guitar, the fiddle, and singing. At the young age of thirteen years old, Leon and his brother Jimmy won a contest at a church hall in their home town and this is the moment when his career within the music industry began. From that point on, the Lancto Brothers began making their name throughout the North Country. Not only did Leon play in local areas, he also played music during his enlistment in the United States Army from 1957 to 1959. After this particular stepping stone in is life, he went on to have his own band for many years. Leon Lancto and his Swing Kings became very well known throughout the North Country as well as Canada. With that said, he played music with many local talents, and he has influenced several musicians. His music has been heard on the radio, watched on TV and enjoyed in person on many stages during his many years of playing.
Leon, better known a “Stringbean” in his younger years moved to Florida with his wife, Mona (Lucas) in 2007. He married Mona, the love of his life, in 1957. Leon, born on July 30, 1934 was son of late Clifford and Laura (Varin) Lancto, and he was survived by his children Kirk Lancto and his wife Julie of Mooers, Todd Lancto of Champlain, Lynn Laurin of Champlain, and Chad Lancto of North Port, his siblings Shelbie Donahue, Elsie Schmeelke and her late husband Bill, Earl Lancto, , his twelve grandchildren Heather Lancto, Tommy, Alie and Tyler Babbie, Tonya Lancto, Ian, Joel, Stephanie, Brandon, and Hannah Laurin, Taylor Benoit, Joey Garrand. He is also survived by four great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and he is predeceased by his brother Jimmy Lancto. Over the years, Leon has led a very interesting and fulfilling life and has touched many people. The memories and music by Leon will be truly missed by all.
Calling hours will be 12:00 to 2:00 PM Sunday August 31, 2014 at Heald Funeral Home, 48 Court Street, Plattsburgh. A funeral service will follow in the Heald Funeral Home Chapel. Entombment will follow in Whispering maples mausoleum on the Tom Miller Road in Plattsburgh. Arrangements have been entrusted to Heald Funeral Home, 48 Court Street Plattsburgh. To light a memorial candle or leave an online condolence please visitwww.healdfuneralhomeinc.com