Leonard Kantola

With heavy hearts, the family announces the passing of Leonard Matthew Kantola, aged 75 years. Leonard passed away on September 5, peacefully with his son by his side, leaving behind a legacy defined by his hands-on craftsmanship, his passion for mechanics and aviation, appreciation for fishing and the outdoors and his love for his family.

Born March 15, 1951 in Port Arthur, Leonard grew up on Victoria Ave. until his marriage to Lynne Lessard (Glen) where he then lived in Thunder Bay’s Northwood Area.

A lifelong handyman and skilled mechanic by trade, Leonard was happiest when solving a tough engine problem or bringing a complex project to life. Whether he was building airplanes from the ground up or painstakingly building his beloved cabin at Larry’s Cabins at Sandstone Lake, Leonard approached everything with determination, ingenuity and a true craftsman’s pride. The cabin at Sandstone Lake was particularly special—a place built with his own hands where countless memories were shared with those he loved. His cabin will continue to host family & friends.

Larry’s Cabins was a huge part of Leonard’s life; he enjoyed taking care of the grounds on the riding lawn mower, keeping the golf greens perfect and doing his best to ensure the campers had a good time while they were at Sandstone. Tinkering in the sheds on motors and the heavy equipment, using the sawmill to make boards for projects on and off the property and spending as much time as he could on the water fishing and discovering new lakes with Micheal were some of his favourite hobbies.

He moved to British Columbia in 2021 and a new chapter began. 

Leonard will be missed by his loving children, Krista White (Ryan) and Corey (Lianne). He was a proud grandfather to Taylor, Kai (Shawna), Aurora, Star and Tennyson. Leonard was excited to become a Great-Grandpa, looking forward with love to the arrival of Kai and Shawna’s baby due this December.

He is survived by his brothers Ken (Brenda), Roy and John (Suzanne) and will be missed by his nieces & nephews Kris, Michael (Genelyn), Jessy (Colin) & Danielle (Gab) as well as many friends from Larry’s Cabins, who held a special place in his heart. Leonard was predeceased by his parents, Laurie and Laila Kantola, and his brother Andrew.

Leonard’s life was built on hard work, family and doing what he loved. His presence, stories and the fruits of his labor will continue to surround and inspire his family for generations to come.

Special thanks to the teams at Hillside Center & Sun Rivers Community for their ongoing care and support.

A Celebration of Leonard’s Life will be announced by the family at a later date, to be held in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Arrangements entrusted to

Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-554-2324

Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services: