Leon Arie Sponko

We mourn the loss of Leon Arie Sponko-- a strong, passionate, and successful entrepreneur, husband and father. Born in rural Romania to Jewish parents Miriam and Koppel, Leon immigrated to Israel as a young boy seeking new opportunities. He traveled to many countries and lived in Hamburg, Germany for several years where he owned and operated successful dance clubs.

Little did he know he would find the love of his life at a bank in Israel. Dolly stole his heart and they married one year after and subsequently had two children, Yariv and Liora.

Leon was always seeing new opportunities and possibilities to provide for his family. They immigrated to Montreal for only 6 months and then moved to sunny California. In Los Angeles, Leon built an extremely successful business developing condominiums and apartment buildings. Leon was an extremely hard worker, always wanting to provide for his family. In 1980 they gave birth to another child, Orna, and soon after became US citizens.

Life in the Sponko household was full of fun, food, loud voices and love. Leon enjoyed having a good time with friends, laughing and grilling steak. He would always make sure his family had everything they wanted. The family would often take trips, go out to eat, and spend vacations in Las Vegas. The family grew with the birth of Jacob in 1989.

“Leon” and “Arie” both translate into “lion.” A lion symbolizes strength, courage, leadership, and the ability to create your own destiny. This perfectly exemplifies our beloved Leon Sponko.

Leon lived a long and exceptional life and truly demonstrates the American dream is possible. He didn’t mind working hard because he was motivated by his love for his family. Even though we no longer can enjoy his physical presence, his spirit now lives through the memories, his jokes and his love for his wife and children. This is his greatest legacy.

Leon passed away peacefully at 90 years old in Las Vegas, NV.  He is survived by Dolly Sponko (wife); Yariv, Liora, Orna, and Jacob (children); Rachel Cynamon (sister); and Sammy and Mimi (nephew and niece).