Leo Lanzon

1944 - 2021

Leo Lanzon

Bunnell - Leo Lebert Lanzon passed away on June 18, 2021 at AdventHealth Hospice Care in Palm Coast, FL at the age of 76. Leo, the oldest of 6, was born in Detroit, Michigan to Leo and Germaine Lanzon on December 1, 1944. Leo grew up in Hazel Park, Michigan. His Dad owned automotive paint and body shops in nearby Detroit, and in those shops Leo's lifelong fascination with cars took root. He hung out at the body shop every chance he had and started painting cars as a very young teen. He absolutely loved painting vehicles of all types. Detailed work and perfection were a must. He would often say if you think it's perfect, you haven't missed very much, always give people more than they expect to receive, and do things right the first time.

Leo took a break from the body shop to serve his country in Germany and Vietnam. He often spoke proudly of his time served in the U.S. Army. Leo said his tenure in the military was the best job he ever had.

After Leo returned from Vietnam, he decided he had enough of the Michigan winters. He and a friend rode their motorcycles, another passion of Leo's, to Florida. Eventually he settled in the Daytona Beach area and shortly thereafter opened Autocraft Paint & Repair. His shop specialized in expert paint and body work and automotive restorations for over 40 years. During that time he amassed a large number of loyal customers and trusted friends. It wasn't uncommon to drive by the shop well past 5 PM and find one or more customers turned trusted friends hanging out in the office with Leo discussing cars, life's ups and downs, or a combination of both. His office could turn into a classroom in an instant. If he was in a teaching mode and you were paying attention, you could walk out of the office a far wiser person than when you entered. Many times you would swing by with a car question and leave having a completely unrelated life problem solved.

Leo was a private person, but once he felt comfortable, he blossomed like a flower. He was wonderfully deep with many layers and truly had a heart of gold. He paid attention to you and what was going on in your life. Many times that attention led to a unique nickname that made you feel special. His kindness and attention, however, did not stop Leo from being brutally honest if the situation called for it. You always knew where you stood with him.

Leo's pets were as important to him as the people he cared about. He never met a dog he didn't like. He had a special affinity for boxers and later in life, his attention turned to pit bulls. He was involved with Boxer Rescue for years. To keep his dogs on their toes, Leo was a great Dad to several cats as well.

Leo is survived by five brothers and sisters....his beloved sister Beverly, brother Ed, and as Leo referred to them, The Three Stooges....also several nieces and nephews, and too many friends to name.

Leo will be sorely missed. His impact was far and wide, and all who knew him are enriched from the privilege. A service will be held at a later date at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, Mims, Florida.