Leonard Pelto

Tapiola, Leonard Pelto, 96, died Saturday, February 11, at the Houghton County Medical Care Facility, in Hancock, where he had been a resident for one and one-half years. He was born on the family farm near Pelkie, the son of Edward and Ilmi (Aho) Pelto. Leonard attended the Pelkie schools. On May 6, 1944, he married Irene Torro of Tapiola. The couple first farmed in Pelkie and then made their home in Crystal Falls for 34 years where he was employed by Malkin and Sons. Upon retiring in 1982, they returned to the Copper Country living in Tapiola and later in Houghton. They celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary in 2016. Leonard was a member of Mission United Lutheran Church in Pelkie, a charter member and past president of the Ottawa Sportsmen's Club, and served on the Pelkie Credit Union board of directors. Throughout his life Leonard enjoyed the outdoors - hunting, fishing and winter sports. He is survived by his wife; one daughter, Sandy (John) Giordana of Houghton; granddaughter Jena (Rick) Baker of Santa Rosa CA; grandson John (Sara) Giordana of Denver CO; and three great grandchildren - Ricky and Jordana Baker and John Burke Giordana. Also surviving is his sister Toini Alcenius of Dearborn, MI as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Alfred, Walter and August, and sisters Marie Alcenius, Hilma Bohto, and Helga Niemi. Friends may call Monday, February 20 from 10:00 to 11:00, prior to the 11:00 a.m. memorial service, at Mission United Lutheran Church in Pelkie. Officiating will be Pastor John Autio. To view Leonard's obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memorialchapel.net. The Memorial Chapel & Plowe Funeral Homes, Hancock, are assisting the family with the arrangements.Service Information