Len Lo Presto, 81, of Las Cruces, NM, passed away on April 11, 2024, at 1:20 p.m. while in ICU at Memorial Medical Center, with wife Linda, and his daughter by his side. He'd had lung surgery 2/26, with subsequent treatments at different facilities, and very recently diagnosed with mesothelioma.
Len was born August 25, 1942, to Geno and Nancy (Giovenco) Lo Presto in Chicago, IL. He attended Lane Technical HS, running track, jumping hurdles, and studying a new field in data processing, with the early computers. He received a scholarship to the University of Nevada in Las Vegas. He was drafted by the Marines in 1962, serving in Viet Nam, but medically discharged in 1963 after receiving treatment for a bullet wound, of which he was awarded a Purple Heart ribbon. He had 17 uncles who served in different branches of the military, in different wars. He graduated with his bachelor’s degree in May 1966.
He was a computer programmer for a wide variety of businesses all over the world, including installing most of NM counties' first computers; most recently programming at WSMR. He was an NFL scout for the Chicago Bears, so traveled to all 50 states numerous times ea., and was very good at statistics. He also took chef classes in Chicago and was a very good cook. His nickname was "Coach." He supported Aggies football at NMSU. He was also an avid fisherman, studying Ichthyology on-line, volunteering with NM Game & Fish, and occasionally taking disabled vets out fishing. He was active over the years with different United Methodist congregations.
Len was predeceased by his mother and father. He is survived by his wife Linda, his children Gena (&Shane) Sluga and Kevin (&Jennifer) Lo Presto, both of Phoenix, AZ, sister Nancy (&Steve) Slokowski, brother Jim Lo Presto, both of IN, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Interment was in a family plot in St. Joseph cemetery, River Grove, Chicago area. A memorial ‘celebration of life’ will be held at the VFW Post #6917 on 5845 Bataan Memorial Hwy, June 8, 4-8 p.m.
