Mario Lena, who had one of the biggest hearts around, died unexpectedly at age 75 when that heart stopped beating. And now this legendary Kansasville character is sharing jokes and dumpster bagels with Saint Peter.

Mario spent his childhood enjoying adventures on Eagle Lake and shadowing the elders of Eagle Lake Terrace, learning as many trade skills as he could. The best part was meeting his future wife on the school bus, forming a friendship with Helen Lavin that lasted 60 years. They married on January 26, 1967, the same year he became a father and opened Mario's Auto Service in Kansasville where he eagerly served customers for more than 37 years.

Mario and Helen raised five children:  Marie, Mario, Joe, Tony, and Juliet. His seven grandchildren — Shelby, Zach, Francesca, Max, Anthony, Violet, and Bennett — affectionately called him Grandpa Towtruck.

He learned from his mother, and our Savior Jesus, to hear the cries of the poor, always coming to people's rescue during hard times. In fact, there are thousands of stories out there of Mario helping out others whether it be getting their car back on the road, sharing food, comforting people in times of need, or getting someone out of a bind. He was particular about people's safety. Mario was a father figure to many.

As a successful businessman, Mario was a master at bartering and trading favors. He could repair, fabricate, and tow just about anything. An original picker, he loved the challenge and hunt of finding something a friend needed.

In retirement, his philanthropy involved bread and bakery, garlic, fresh produce, and other items rescued from dumpsters. Mario was also secretly employed by Volvo as an endurance car test driver for its food storage models.

He is survived by his wife, Helen; children, Marie (Brian) Frederick, Tony (Peggy Skyles) Lena, and Juliet (Dan) Roszkowski; grandchildren, Shelby (Nolan) McCourt, Zach Frederick, Francesca (Connor Mullooly) Frederick, Max Frederick, Anthony Lena, Violet Lena, and Bennett Roszkowski; siblings Fran (Bobby) Hinostro, and Mike (Margaret) Lena; sisters-in-law Genie (Dan) Bosch, Mary Flynn, Dr. Maureen Lavin; brothers-in-law Barney (Harriet) Lavin, and Greg Lavin; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sons, Mario and Joe; parents Vince and Maryann Lena; in-laws Gene and Helen Lavin; brother-in-law, Mark Flynn; and nephew, Nathan Lavin.

Visitation will be held Friday, October 18, 2 - 5 p.m. at St. Mary of the Assumption, Kansasville, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 5:30 p.m.

Mario will be deeply missed by many. There will never be another like him.

The family suggests memorials be made in Mario's honor to St. Francis Xavier, Catholic Central High School, Kan-Do 4-H club, or Love, Inc.