
Milton H. "Milla" Lehto
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Milton "Milla" Lehto, age 93, of Maynard, MA, passed away on December 4, 2019 with his family by his side, leaving this world a sadder place. Milla had a zest for life and lived it to the fullest. He often said "I hope when I die no one cries for me because I have had a great life." He enjoyed traveling, a cold beer and any type of party. He was admired for his mind and vitality by all who knew him.
He was well read on a variety of subjects including, but not limited to, taxidermy, home canning, beer and wine making, all things western, woodworking and gardening. His interests were wide but he especially enjoyed anything outdoors, including winter mountain climbing, fishing, canoeing, skiing and camping. He would talk to anyone about anything and they always liked hearing his tales.
His accomplishments were many, but chief among them were his four daughters -- three athletes and one engineer. He rarely missed a sporting event or science quiz competition. Once asked if he minded not having any sons, he said, "I never noticed."
He was a feisty prankster. He had a multitude of tricks for those uninitiated, namely the snake box, potato gun and "electric" chair.
Milla was predeceased by Connie, his wife of 67 years, who was a saint to put up with his antics, but who left him with enough money to buy the Rapid Red Ford 150 of his dreams. He will also be reunited in heaven with his daughter, Karin Viafore, and his two favorite dogs, Smokey and Goliath. He is survived by two sisters, Charlotte Anderson and Mary Case and three daughters and their husbands, Stephanie and William Susetka, Kristin and Robert Herrick and Suzanne and John Morgan and son-in-law, Ken Viafore. He has nine grandchildren who know him as Bappy and look up to him as their hero. He also has eight great-grandchildren who will hear about his legacy.
His wish was to be interred in Nantucket, his summer home for 60 years, so that he could come back as a ghost to continue his pranks.
He will be sorely missed, but warmly remembered with love.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a future time.
Steph
I am so sorry to hear this. Milla was a wonderful man. Deb and I were just talking about him earlier this evening. So many wonderful memories you have of this special Man.
Seize The Day.
Posted by Dan and Deb Ignatuck - Palm Coast, FL - friend February 29, 2020
You will be in our prayers. Your dad was a pleasure to know, a really special guy.
Posted by Jan and Steve Davis - Palm Coast, FL - friend February 29, 2020
What an icon! Your dad had that special gleam in his eye that said, "I may be old in years but I'm young at heart!" I'm sure he was the best tour guide on the island and definitely my favorite part of our trip to Nantucket! Sad for your loss but glad you were so blessed to have him!
Posted by Becky and Bob Lindhorst - Daytona Beach, FL - friend February 20, 2020
Dear Stephanie and family, Your dad was the highlight of our trip. What a treasure and we were so sorry to hear of his passing. I remember sitting in the back seat of your truck and listening to his tour of the island - so many memories he shared. Thank you for sharing HIM with us.
Posted by Val and Terry - OH - friend February 20, 2020
Stephanie, we are so sorry to hear about your father's passing and are grateful we had the opportunity to meet him last year in Nantucket. Our visit to your home and the subsequent tour of the island by your dad was the highlight of our trip. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Posted by Mike and Lisa Fondella - OH - friend February 20, 2020
Steph, I was so glad I had dinner with your dad one night in Pound Ridge. I know you have wonderful memories of him as a dad, grandfather and great grandfather! I am sure your slideshow and wonderfu memories willhelp you through the months and year ahead.
Posted by Karen Aarts - Bradenton, FL - friend February 14, 2020
Suzie, We are sad to hear about Milla. Oh , how he touched our lives! So many memories for all of us. We hope they will bring you joy and strength. Its difficult as we turn into the oldest generation, but your strong roots will keep you in bloom. Sending you a warm hug.
Posted by Susan and David Hardy - Mohawk, NY - family February 12, 2020
Suzie, We were saddened to hear of your Dads passing. I know having him with you has been a gift to everyone. Sometimes it seems difficult but the time together can never come again. Please know you are in our thoughts. He was blessed to have to all.
Posted by Steve and Gail Bunnell - MA - friend February 12, 2020
Im sure you are so sad to have lost such an incredible human being-but so happy to have had him by your side.
Posted by Deb Morgan - Marstons Mills, MA - family February 12, 2020
Thinking of you Suzie. You were a wonderful daughter and how nice that you were able to take care of your Dad. I know you are sad - Im very sorry - Just remember how lucky you were to have had such a great Dad!
Posted by Doreen LaBaire - MA - friend February 12, 2020
Suzie, I was sorry to hear about your father. We hope youre coping as well as can be expected. John, my father told me how much time you spent looking after him. Were thinking of both of you.
Posted by Don and Joceyln Morgan - MA - family February 12, 2020
Thanks for the call. I had no idea that the situation was so severe. Bless you all for the good care you were able to give him. Hes probably making jokes with Ag now!
Posted by Fi Marble - West Yarmouth, MA - friend February 12, 2020
My favorite memory was at the wedding when he threw is cane. I know you will miss him, I still miss my Dad after 25+ years, feel comforted that you had him in your life for so long. He will continue to make you smile (and cry) for many years. He was an AMAZING man!! Like his daughtervery special indeed.
Posted by Lauren DeAngeles - NC - friend February 12, 2020
Sorry you had to say your final goodbye to Bappy. May you find comfort wrapped in a warm blanket of loving memories.
Posted by Lisa Harper - MA - friend February 12, 2020
Suz,
Sending lots of hugs, love and prayers. He was such a wonderful special man. God Bless. I have such awesome memories of our trip to Nantucket and he met us for a beeronly one of many! Wish I was there to give you a real hug. Hang in there. I know how special you are to him and vice versa.
Posted by Darlene Curly - MA - friend February 12, 2020
We were so sorry to hear to the loss of your dear father. He was an amazing person and a terrific father to have raised a daughter like you. May God keep you in his care and give you peace.
Posted by Lois and Nugget Swindler - Canfield, OH - family February 12, 2020
We are so sorry to hear this news. Miller was a grand gentleman who indeed had a zest for life. He will be missed by all who knew him. If there is anything we can do to be helpful, please do not hesitate to call.
Travel safely to Nantucket and know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
All our best,
Bonnie and Carol
Posted by Bonnie Newman - Palm Coast, FL - friend February 09, 2020
Dear Steph, I will remember your Dad helping us with the raft for the Hudson River crossing event. I always thought he was a great guy when you told us about family hiking and backpacking trips on the Appalachian Trail. He obviously taught you a lot about how to create a great family and a wonderful life. Hats off to him and the terrific life he led. The loss of a parent leaves a huge hole in your heart. I am thinking about you at this painful time.
Posted by Nancy Risso - Carlisle, MA - friend February 08, 2020
Dear Kris and Harry,
We were so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. Please know that you're all been in our thughts and prayers! Keep those great memories close to your hearts!
With our sympathy and love,
Mark, LIsa, Alyssa, Mitch, Austin, and Griffin
Posted by Mark Herrick - Blackstone, MA - family February 01, 2020
Dear Kris and Bob,
Milla was someone who was an honor to know. While we did not know Milla for many years, any of our times with him bring very fond memories. The potato cannon on the beach in Nantucket is something we will always remember. Milla was one of a kind. We are so sorry for your loss.
Love Tara and Alan
Posted by Alan Dean - Bedford, NH - friend February 01, 2020
Kris,
I hope your memories of yur father comfort you in the days ahead. I am so sorry for your loss.
Kach
Posted by Steve Kuchan - New Boston, NH February 01, 2020
Dear Kris,
My deepest sympathy for the loss of your dear father. He was a wonderful man who lived a beautiful life! May his love and memories comfort you in the days ahead.
Love Judy
Posted by Judy Baluha - Norwalk, CT - family February 01, 2020
We are so sorry to hear about Milla-oh how he touched our lives! So many memories. We hope they will bring you joy and strength.
Love Dave and Sue
Posted by David Hardy - Mohawk, NY - family February 01, 2020
The care and dedication you gave to your father was a very special gift. may the lifetime of love and memories bring you comfort in the difficult days ahead.
Love Kevin and Rachel
Posted by Kevin McCullough - Bedford, NH February 01, 2020
Sending healing thoughts to you.
Meredith
Posted by Meredith Bastine - Newton, NH - coworker February 01, 2020
I's so sorry to hear of your loss. May the thoughts and prayers from all around bring you comfort at this difficult time.
Love,
Linda
Posted by Linda Simone - Atkinson, NH - coworker February 01, 2020
Thinking of you and sending you thoughts and prayers.
-Ellen
Posted by Ellen Keefe - Haverhill, MA - coworker February 01, 2020
Our sympathy to you and your family.
Love Peggy, Jennifer, Danielle, Kathy and Marcia
Posted by Marcia Emerson - Hudson, NH - coworker February 01, 2020
Just wanted to let you know how sorry we were to hear about your loss. We will keep your family in our thoughts over the holidays.
Warmly,
Jon, Jaci, Teddy, and Harry
Posted by Jon Stone - Bedford, NH - neighbor February 01, 2020
Dear Kris and Harry,
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
All our love,
Joey and Crissy
Posted by Joseph Buscemi - Wells, ME - family February 01, 2020
Dear Kris,
My deepest sympathy on the loss of your dad. Losing a parent is a difficult moment in life-just hold on to the wonderful moments you shared to get you through difficult periods. I was certainly blessed to spend time with Milla in Florida the past few years. He was such a wonderful man-full of life and wisdom. Take good care.
Love Bill H.
Posted by Bill Humphrey - Norwalk, CT - family February 01, 2020
Thinking of you. Milla was a special man- full of life!
Love Maryann
Posted by Maryann Waterman - Falmouth, ME - friend February 01, 2020
Dear Kris and family,
I am thinking of your dad today and what a great and long life he lead. He certainly enjoyed as many fun times as he could possibly embrace. He loved all of you, his extended family, and friends.
I am smiling when all the great times I spent with him. In the garden in Maynard and Nantucket, fishing for blue fish at Great Point, getting the tour of Nantucket, golfing, all of the parties and weddings, and his pranks. His legacy is his love of family, friends, and life.
I raised a craft beer in his honor the other day and of you,
Love Brophy
Posted by Susan Brophy - Waltham, MA - friend February 01, 2020
I was genuinely sad to hear about your dad. One of the high points of my visit to Florida each year was having lunch with you both. What I saw was an outstanding man with an encompassing ability to enjoy life and his family. I'm sure you provided many moments of happiness and memories are everlasting. I shall miss our visits! Affectionately,
Posted by Guilia McCarthy - Media, PA - friend January 24, 2020
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Your "Red Sox" dad is in Heaven still rooting for the greatest team in all of baseball! Love and blessings.
Posted by Judi Jodoin - New Smyrna Beach, FL - friend January 24, 2020
im so sorry to hear about the passing of your father. in hindsight, my decision to visit maynard alone (i.e. without you there) many years ago was one of the best decisions i've made (one of many truly off the wall decisions yet memorable i've made since then). it gave me the opportunity to chat and get to know your parents one on one. and i still remember, your father giving me a guided tour of the town, pointing out what you did where. there's no doubt he was immensely proud of you and i can see much of him in you.
Posted by Woody Khoman - Bangkok, Thailand - friend January 16, 2020
Greg and I want to extend our condolences for the loss of your Dad. We truly enjoyed spending time with him a couple of years ago while visiting Bill. There is no greater gift than being blessed with good parents. Milla had a good, long life - - we loved listening to his many stories! please know we are thinking of you.
Posted by Nancy Montgomery - Mt. Wolf, PA - family January 16, 2020
So sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May he rest in peace.
Posted by Debbie and Keith Hansen - Palm Bay, FL - family January 16, 2020
We are so sorry to hear about Milla. We will certainly miss him! So many memories!
Posted by Susan and Dave Hardy - Mohawk, NY January 16, 2020
I am so very sorry at the loss of such a vibrant man, filled with love, determination, pride and certainly a wealth of humorous antics! His laughter and sparkling eyes will continue to bring a smile and encouragement during this difficult time. We are all so lucky to have had him in our lives. There could be no other like him.
Posted by Janice Anderson - Concord, MA - family January 05, 2020
He was my role model no man can match. Cheers to your dad. Cutest, most fun, positive, strong, talented and, again, cutest man on earth!
Posted by Donna Dahlke - Mill Valley, CA - family January 05, 2020
I loved playing bocce with him in Nantucket. His electric blue eyes.
Posted by Jen Police - Marstons Mills, MA - friend January 05, 2020
Great life. Our condolences to you and your entire family. He touched many lives.
Posted by Carey Dassatti - Chicago, IL - friend January 05, 2020
Great man. Great life. I feel blessed to have known him! Look forward to him "haunting" me on Nantucket!
Posted by Brant Smith - Essex, CT - friend January 05, 2020
I just wanted to tell you how sorry I was to hear that Bap passed away but how grateful I am to have known him for as long as I did. Your dad was one cool guy! I'll certainly miss him and I'm thinking of all of you.
Posted by Bard Kligerman - Stamford, CT - friend January 05, 2020
So sorry to hear about Bap. He was such a legend and will b e deeply missed. So many great memories with him. We're glad we knew him and that Nantucket gets to carry on his legacy.
Posted by Jason Danielli - Raleigh, NC - friend January 05, 2020
I loved your dad and mom. They reminded me of my parents and I felt drawn to both of them. Bap will always hold a special place in my heart and thank you for sharing him with me. I know your mom and sister came to meet him, because your mom always looked out for him and loved him very much. Just wish we could see them walking hand in hand and happy. It will never be the same here on Earth without Bap, he was a ray of sunshine in our lives and Heaven gained a wonderful man this morning. Bap loved his girls so much and our lives will have an emptiness without him. My heartfelt love comes to you and all your family.
Posted by Marlene Spaulding - Palm Coast, FL - friend January 05, 2020
I'm so sorry, he was a great man and I'm so glad we got the opportunity to spend some time with him.
Posted by Barb Pierce - Fairfield, CT - friend January 05, 2020
Mom and I are with you in your grief. What a kind, gentle soul Milla was, and we truly loved his spirit and zest for life. Please let us know where the family will be and we will send sustenance. Love you.
Posted by Julie Cook - Palm Coast, FL - friend January 05, 2020
When thinking about your dad, it is impossible not to smile. It has to be hard without him. We are thinkging of you all and please let us know if there is anything we can do to help.
Posted by Karen Anderson - Littleton, MA - family January 05, 2020
Thinking of you and all your family and of course dear sweet funny Milla.
Posted by Jody Newman - Nantucket, MA - friend January 05, 2020
Very sorry for your loss. He was an amazing man and today is a tribute to him! May he be happy in heaven with a cold beer in one hand and Connie in the other.
Posted by Tim Herrick - Marrietta, GA - family January 05, 2020
I'm so sorry for your loss, thank you for everything you did to help keep him going as long as possible.
Posted by Brendon Herrick - Foothill Ranch, CA - family January 05, 2020
Been thinking about you out there on Nantucket, imagining all gathered in the living room with so many memories. Bill H. tells me Milla will enter his final resting place tomorrow. So been thinking about him too, of course, and the "end of an era" as you said. I realize it's the cycle of life but there are some, like my dad and yours, that when they leave, we feel an unmistakable void. My love to all.
Posted by Joyce Clark - Redding, CT - friend January 05, 2020
Although not surprised by the news of Milla's passing, given his health issues since his stroke, it still hit a chord of denial. Not Milla! We are so glad we had the opportunity to come by the house to see him before you left Nantucket in the Fall. He was your father and I know that loss, but you and your family are special . . . because he was special. So full of life and unwilling to let anything get is way. We regret not being with you on Nantucket for his burial but we were there in spirit. You have lots of memories and great pictures but here are a couple more. Marcie could always get a laugh out of Milla!
Posted by Terry McGovern - Long Boat Key, FL - friend January 04, 2020
I was just reading a back issue of the Inky and read that your father passed away. What a character he was. I wish I had the good fortune to have met him. I do know from what you have told me that you were a devoted daughter which I admire. I hope that the stories and fond memories of him will replace your sadness of today.
Posted by Jackie Kupper - Nantucket, MA - friend January 04, 2020
We are so sorry for your loss of Milla. He was a wonderful man who touched the lives of so many. His memory will always remain alive in the hearts of all who loved him. With our love and prayers for peace.
Posted by Barb Walsh - Armonk, NY - family January 04, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family.
Posted by Diane Bagnall - Palm Coast, FL - friend January 04, 2020
Our thoughts are with you at the sad time.
Posted by Ladies Golf Association Hammock Dunes - Palm Coast, FL - coworker January 04, 2020
Thinking of you at this difficult time and wishing you peace.
Posted by Penny Decker - Ormond Beach, FL - friend January 04, 2020
I was so very sorry to hear the sad news about your dad a few days ago from Gary. I do know that as prepared as one might feel, when the loss of one's parents or someone very close actually comes, one is not ever ready and it is a very difficult time. I'm so glad that I had the opportunity to meet your father, and although I didn't know him well, it was obvious to me that he was a very special man. He certainly did love Nantucket and he was so fortunate to be there with you so much of the time. I do appreciate how great that is having Gary here at the Cape with me.
Posted by Mimi Wheeler - Wellington, FL - friend January 04, 2020
There are no words to say how sorry I am that we have lost Bap! He was a very special man that touched so many people's lives. His spirit will always be with us in our life here on Earth.
Posted by Marlene Spaulding - Palm Coast, FL - friend January 04, 2020
Keeping you and your family in our prayers. With deepest sympathy.
Posted by Anne Beysteiner - Palm Coast, FL - friend January 04, 2020
Trust in the hope and comfort of time.
Posted by Dee McEvoy - Palm Coast, FL - friend January 04, 2020
I share your sorrow - Milla will be missed.
Posted by Barbara Kotalac - Nantucket, MA - friend January 04, 2020
Hope the memory of his love will surround you now and bring you peace. All our love and prayers.
Posted by Becky Bush - Palm Coast, FL - friend January 04, 2020
My deepest sympathy on the loss of your dad. Losing a parent is a difficult moment in life - just hold on to the memories of the wonderful moments and life experiences you shared with your dad to get you through. It was truly a blessing for me to get to know and spend time with Milla. Such a wonderful man, full of life, fun, kindness and wisdom. Most importantly, he was full of love for his family and he was loved by many.
Posted by Bill Humphreys - Palm Coast, FL - family January 04, 2020
Sorry to get the news. may you find kindness to warm you, sympathy to comfort you, and cherished memories to bring peace to your heart.
Posted by Fi Marble - South Yarmouth, MA - friend January 04, 2020
Please accept our sincerest condolences for your loss.
Posted by Laura Hanley - Southport, CT - friend January 04, 2020
Your dad will be missed by his family and ME! My deepest sympathy.
Posted by Martha Butler - Nantucket, MA - friend January 04, 2020
Blake and I were so sorry to hear about your dad's passing. He was such a kind man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Posted by Kelli Marshall - Palm Coast, FL - friend January 04, 2020
We just want to say again how sorry we are for the loss of your dad. So glad that we got to meet him! Thinking of you this season.
Posted by Nancy McDaniel - Palm Coast, FL - friend January 04, 2020
My deepest sympathy for the loss of your dear father. A man of many talents and experiences that he loved to share and we loved to learn from. I will cherish our long chats together and how special he always made me feel. May your eternal connection together bring you comfort in the days ahead. With blessings and love.
Posted by Judy Baluha - Norwalk, CT - family January 04, 2020
Please know that Bob and I are thinking of you and your family. We were so sorry to hear of your father's passing. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Posted by Stephanie Drab - Palm Coast, FL - friend January 04, 2020
Please accept our deepest sympathies for the loss of your father. The greatest gifts a child can give his/her parents are to grow up strong, independent, loving and well disciplined. Even though this is a sad time for you, take solice in knowing how much your father loved you and how proud he was to have you as his daughter.
Posted by Michael O'Bryan - Palm Coast, FL - friend January 04, 2020
He was the man who gave me so many childhood memories from causing trouble at Bartlett Farm (which is where my daughters middle name came from), teaching me how to make the best soups (which my daughter loves eating) and so many laughs that I have been lucky enough to have had because of the greatest bap and friend! I know I will see him soon with YoHo and that will be my next best memory
Posted by Julianne moore - Fairfield, CT - Grandchild December 23, 2019
I am so sorry for your loss. He was a great man.
Posted by john moynihan - camdenton, MO December 12, 2019
Stephanie and Bill-
My sincere condolences on the passing of your Dad. Milla was a terrific person who was a delight to play golf with at Miacomet's Senior League. He will be missed.
Posted by Gene Briskman - Nantucket, MA - Friend December 12, 2019
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