Samuel Leto
November 18, 2008
Samuel Joseph Leto, 60 passed away from cancer on November 18th 2008 at his home surrounded by his family. Visitation will be held at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home on Friday, November 21st from 2-8 PM with a Rosary at 5 PM and a scripture service and tributes at 6:30 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church on Saturday, November 22 at 10:30 AM.
Sam was born on August 17, 1948 to Ralph and Victoria Leto in Des Moines. He graduated from Dowling High School and Simpson College before starting a career that spanned almost 37 years with the State of Iowa. He worked in the Dept. of Revenue, The Dept. of Human Services and The Legislative Services before retiring on May 31, 2007.
Sam married Joyce Costanzo on November 7th 1970 and she was the Joy /ce of his life. One of Sam’s greatest loves was spending time with his 5 children and 9 grandchildren. He was an active member of St. Anthony’s and was involved in the choir, school board, Fall festival and many other volunteer efforts. Sam enjoyed playing slow pitch softball and was an avid sports fan. Go Hawks, Cubs, Bears and Celtics.
Sam is survived by his wife of 38 years, Joyce; 5 children, Jennifer (Joe) Muccianti, Michelle (Chip) Murrow, Jeff, David (Joann) and Joe (Sara); 9 grandchildren, Robbie and Brooke Murrow, Sam, Charlie and Clare Leto, Olivia Leto, Anthony, Nicholas and Ann Muccianti; his father, Ralph Leto; 5 siblings, Ralph (Jane), Tony (Mary), Paul (Lisa), Victoria (David) Pruin and Patricia (Frank) Fazio. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Victoria (DeFrancisco) Leto
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Anthony’s Church Foundation or the John Stoddard Cancer Center.
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Anna Muccianti
09/28/2021
Dear Papa Sam,
I really wish I could get to know you. From other people, I could tell that when you walked into a room, everybody smiled. I really wish you were still here. We love you!
Amy Bregman, RN NICU
12/05/2008
Dear Jennifer, I have been thinking about you and I am so sorry for your loss; I hope you were able to get to Iowa with the babies. I hope Anna, Nicholas and Anthony are all doing great and bringing you some joy during this very sad time of your life. I am so sorry about the "car seat screen" fiasco; I feel terrible that you were delayed in leaving the hospital. It was a pleasure to care for you children and know you. Take Care, Amy Bregman
Mark Broderson (Brodie)
11/21/2008
Joe and Family, so sorry to hear of your loss. Try to remember all the wonderful times you shared. Just remember it's not goodbye, because you will meet again. Anything I can do please let me know. Brodie
Janine Whipps
11/20/2008
I never met Sam, but feel like I know a little about him through my friendship with Victoria. She speaks so highly of him, his devotion to his family, and I know this "rock" will be greatly missed by many. Know that you're in my prayers - for strength and the comfort and peace that only God -- and the people He puts in your lives -- can provide. Your sorrow is a tribute to the tremendous impact of this man on your lives. Enjoy the memories of a life well lived. Peace to you.
Anita O'Gara
11/21/2008
My sympathy is with all of you. I knew Sam as a member of St. Anthony choir and his welcoming spirit was always a big part of our familys choir experience. He was such a thoroughly kind man! We loved his big smile and the attention he offered to every individual. I often witnessed his attitude of service and his thoughtfulness of others. (For example, Sam was the one who would remember to bring water to Midnight Mass and brought enough for everyone!) My sons sang with him during their high school years, and I am grateful for his influence and example to them.
I will keep your family in my prayers. May you receive some comfort as Sams years of thoughtfulness bounce back in acts of kindness to all of you.
Gayle Pohl
11/20/2008
God has Sam in his arms and has sent angels to protect and guide you,his family, through these very difficult times. May His peace envelope you. My prayers are with you.
Nikki Johnson
11/20/2008
Victoria,
I'm so sorry to hear of your brothers passing. I will keep you and your entire family in our thoughts and prayers. You are on all of our minds....
Peace to you in knowing that he will rest comfortably with his maker while waiting to rejoin his family.
Love -
Nikki
Chris, Jennifer & Kaitlyn Roberts
11/18/2008
Our deepest sympathies during this very difficult time. Please do not hesitate to call if you need anything. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.