James Leon LaLonde

June 5, 1940 - February 4, 2021

James Leon LaLonde, 80, of Mt. Dora Florida, passed away peacefully on Thursday February 4 2021 at Advent Health Waterman Hospital in Tavares. James was born in Midland Michigan on June 5 1940, to late Joseph James and Blanche LaLonde. He attended Midland High School. Known as “Jim” by all that knew him, he enjoyed hard work, riding motorcycles, playing guitar and organ, model railroading, and of course his passion automobiles. Jim truly loved working on cars and was fortunate enough to pursue this passion in his working life as a paint and body man. He was a perfectionist and an artist which worked well for him in this line of work. In the few instances when he wasn’t working on cars, he enjoyed attending car shows and races with some of his many friends. Jim never met a stranger and would strike up a conversation with everyone he met. He had a unique gift of bringing joy to others around him. He wasn’t one to think that having too many friends would be a problem. This attitude toward others yielded him many lifelong friendships which he treasured and held close. Those of us that called him Dad know him as loving, caring, funny and a generous man. We have been blessed with much of these traits and he is in us forever. Jim is survived by his wife Patricia A LaLonde, brother Jerry LaLonde - San Jose Ca, sisters Ann Kreh - Traverse City Mi, and Jan Bell – Auburn Mi, his three daughters Angela LaLonde – Palm Bay Fl, Kate Wheeler – Tavares Fl, Kelly LaLonde- Ponte Vedra Beach Fl, and his son David LaLonde –Nebo NC. Jim is also survived by two grandchildren. Jim is also survived by two stepdaughters Tommie Williams – Tavares Fl, Kathy Brown – Tavares Fl, and a stepson James Johnson – Waco, Tx and six step grandchildren. Jim was predeceased by two stepchildren, Maurey Johnson and Debbie Hahn. In Lieu of Flowers, Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Please visit Alz.org to donate.