Leonard G. Hunter

Leonard G. Hunter, 81, of Meadville, passed away Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at home, surrounded by his family, and not far from where he grew up, spending his entire life on Neason Hill.

Leonard was born in Meadville, on October 18, 1942, a son of the late Paul G. and Winsome (Peterson) Hunter.

Leonard attended Meadville Public Schools and graduated from Meadville High School academic and vocational programs in 1960.  Subsequently, he enrolled in Allegheny College and achieved both his BS and MS degrees from the University of Pittsburgh.

Sergeant Hunter enjoyed the camaraderie of his fellow soldiers in the US Army and National Guard for six years.  He was an expert with the rifle and military communications.

Leonard started repairing radios while in grade school, and was fortunate to become a service man with the former Bob's Home Radio when in high school.  He stayed with Bob's for 23 years.  Additionally, he joined the staff of the Crawford County Vo-Tech where he taught electronics for 35 years.  Leonard developed expertise in industrial electronics, and he designed and built control systems for several area manufacturers.  He learned electrical discharge machine technology, and repaired many of these machines.  The ELTEE brand became a favorite, and ultimately he bought the company.  Along with the conventions, classes and collections, Leonard has been a "casual carpenter."  He spent many happy hours sawing and hammering on the old farmhouse, where he and Toni nested for 50 years.

His interest in electronics led to Ham Radio, and he joined this group as KA3DBJ.  Len attended many Ham radio meets, where he noted few WW II German radio sets.  Knowing that WW II was the first technological war, he became curious about German and Japanese electronic equipment of that era.  Finding little information in the US he traveled to Europe learning about Axis equipment.  Subsequently, Leonard has acquired a large collection of such equipment.

Having an interest in cars, he hung out with local hot rod guys at Gawne Bros. Esso Gas Station.  Much to his father's chagrin, he towed home his first car when he was 14, and he still has that '58 Corvette.
  
Leonard was fortunate to catch the eye and heart of Toni LaPuma.  They married on Dec. 12, 1971.  For over 50 years he cherished and she tolerated.   They have four children, with unique interest and talents; they are Kelly Fulghum de Simone (Christopher), Robin Fulghum Wisdom (Norton), Rachel Hunter (partner John Coke) and Nathan Hunter; his grandchildren are; Jonathan de Simone (Tiffany Wood), Devon de Simone (partner Christopher Brashear), Samuel de Simone (Melody), Ireland Wisdom, Chloe Wisdom; his great grandsons are; Julius de Simone, Kye Brashear, Kobe Brashear;  his sister is Paula Hunter Uglow (Tim), his brother is Timothy Hunter (Michele); niece Amanda Hunter (fiance' Greg); nephew; Mike Uglow (Kodjo) and their children Tobias, Lennox, Finley.

Family and friends are invited to call from 3-7 PM on Monday, June 10, 2024, at STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 404 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE, where  a Funeral Service will take place at 11 AM on Tuesday, June, 11, 2024, with Senior Pastor, Rev. Allen Kreckel of Lighthouse Community Church officiating.  Full Military Honors will follow.

Leonard will be laid to rest in St. Brigid Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Leonard's memory to Hospice of Crawford County, 766 Liberty Street or The Academy Theatre, 275 Chestnut St., both in Meadville, PA 16335.

Share a memory or condolence at www.miznerfuneralhome.com