Len Lo Presto, 81, of Las Cruces, New Mexico, 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 February 26th, 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 University of Nevada in Las Vegas. He was drafted by the Marines in 1962, serving in Vietnam, 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 serve in different branches of 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 New Mexico counties' first computers; most recently programming at WSMR. He was a NFL scout for the Chicago Bears, so traveled to all 50 states numerous times each, and very good at statistics. His nickname was "Coach."  He supported Aggies football at NMSU. While in Chicago, Len took chef classes and became a very good cook, especially with gravies and sauces. 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, Arizona, sister Nancy (& Steve) Slokowski, brother Jim Lo Presto, both of Indiana, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A viewing is planned for Friday evening from 4 to 9 p.m., April 26, 2024 at The Elms Funeral Home, 7600 W. Grand Ave. (turn north at 76th Ave.,) Elmwood Park, Illinois. Interment in the family plot to be held in private at St. Joseph Cemetery, River Grove, Illinois. A memorial celebration of life will be held in New Mexico, likely in May, at the VFW Post #6917 on 5845 Bataan Memorial Hwy.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in Len's name to Salute, Inc. would be appreciated. For information, The Elms Funeral Home at 708-453-1234 or www.elmsfh.com