Mr. Leo Pentti Ahtila, age 60 years, resident of Thunder Bay, passed away unexpectedly at home on February 23,2010.

Born on April 5,1949 in Port Arthur, he resided in Port Arthur until the age of 13 when he and his family moved to Hamilton, Ontario. Leo graduated from Westdale High School were he met and made life long friends Ed and Bonnie Wanagat. Leo returned to Thunder Bay with his family in 1970, after the death of his step-father Mike Brodack.

Leo married his wife Arlene in 1973. He greatly enjoyed the time he spent playing drums for the Country Rovers with his brother-in-law Barry. Leo had three sons that he is very proud of, Micheal, Keith and Darren. Leo was a construction millwright with local 1151 in Thunder Bay until an accident in 1988 forced him to stop working. He took great pride in working with wood, cars, playing on his drums, and especially spending time with his 6 grandchildren. Many summers were spent making his unique projects around the yard, along with the special gifts he made for his family.

One of Leo's biggest passions was the time he spent playing his drums to music, either by himself or with the company of his sons. His chest grew several sizes when he got the opportunity to watch his sons, Mike and Darren play in their band live. Leo also enjoyed the many times he was called on for advice by Keith dealing with mechanical problems, until the day he had to call Keith for help. Arlene has lost her companion and best friend, he will never be forgotten.

Leo will be greatly missed by his wife and best friend of 37 years Arlene, his children Micheal (Mandy); Grandchildren Barry, and Violet, Keith (Michelle) grandchildren Leo, Kyle, and Sarah, Darren (Victoria) granddaughter Emily. He will live on in our hearts and memories. Leo is survived by sister Vivian, Sheila (Victor and family), Bonnie (Dan and Erin), brother Alan (Linda and family) and brother-in-law Dave McCool.

Leo was predeceased by his parents Pentti and Senja Ahtila, step-father Mike Brodack, in-laws Stan and Mary McCool, his brother-in-law and band-mate Barry McCool.

As per Leo's wishes, there will be no service, cremation has taken place. Friends and family are invited to a luncheon at 455 Jameson. St., Sunday, February 28th, 2010 from 1 pm to 4pm for a celebration of Leo's life, best wishes or best stories only. If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, donations to a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated by the family.

Leo, you will always have my heart and soul, I will always love and miss you. Love Arlene On line condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com