Asmo Ilkka Tapani Leppanen

SURPRISE - Asmo Ilkka Tapani Leppanen, slipped quietly back to his Heavenly Father on May 29, 2012, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born January 29, 1953, in Kannonkoski, Finland. He married Ruth Diane Funkhouser on August 21, 1978, in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. Ilka was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who enjoyed being with his family. He was an excellent listener, counselor and teacher to his family and friends. He valued hard work and was always willing to help a friend or family member in need. He is survived by his wife, Ruth; his sons, Mikael (Rebecca) and Erik (Keara); his daughter, Elisa; sister, Asta; brother, Asko (Aila); and three grandchildren, Brayden, Kylli and Landon. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Pekka and Aino; and brother, Arto. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends who look forward to the day when they will see him again. A Funeral Service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 14878 N Verde Vista Drive, Surprise, AZ on Friday, June 1, 2012, at 6:30 p.m. A Viewing will be held immediately following the service. Internment will be Saturday, June 2, 2012, 2:30 p.m. at Sunland Memorial Park, 15826 Del Webb Blvd, Sun City, AZ. Arrangements are entrusted to Surprise Funeral Care, please visit Ilkka's online memorial, www.surprisefuneralcare.com (623) 546-8002.