Leonard F. Lusitana

Leonard Frank Lusitana, age 76, of Carterville, IL, passed away on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 10:22 a.m.

Leonard was born on June 27, 1950, in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, to Conrado Ramirez and Maria Ramirez-Romero. He was one of 13 children. At the age of 11, Leonard was adopted by Leo and Olga Lusitana and came to the United States.

After graduating from high school in 1969, Leonard joined the United States Air Force. He proudly served his country for 20 years, 3 months, and 27 days, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant. During his military career, Leonard served a tour in Vietnam as an aircraft technician and flew 137 missions over Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and the Gulf of Tonkin.

Leonard enjoyed baseball, working on cars, and spending time visiting with fellow veterans. He was always quick with a joke and had a wonderful sense of humor. Leonard was also known for his generous spirit and his willingness to help others.

Leonard is survived by his two sons, Tim Lusitana and his wife, Adrienne, of Decatur, IL, and Tom Lusitana and his wife, Carolyn, of Carterville, IL; his daughter, Patty Gremm and her husband, Eric, of Henderson, NV; his grandchildren, Leilani Lusitana, Joey Medina, Victoria Medina and Sienna Gremm; nine siblings; and several nieces and nephews.

Leonard was preceded in death by his birth parents, Conrado Ramirez and Maria Ramirez-Romero; his adoptive parents, Leo and Olga Lusitana; and two siblings.

Funeral services will be held October 7, 2026, at Life Builders Church of God in Decatur, IL, with Rev. David Carreon officiating. Visitation will be at 10am with funeral service at 11am. Burial with military honors will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, IL, at 1pm. Memorials may be made to Life Builders Church of God. Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family in care of Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Homes at www.brintlingerandearl.com.