Leo Ray Banks

Leo Ray Banks (August 30, 2001-June 6, 2011) although a heartbreaking experience, Leo's transition began peacefully surrounded by the multitude of family and friends. As he was held in his Mama's arms in a beautiful garden, drums played and water flowed. Leo passed away early Monday morning at Boston Children's Hospital, holding hands with his Father, Curtis Banks and snuggling with his Mama, Valerie Accetura. Leo loved all the children at Willard Elementary School and they loved him. He was in third grade and worked hard at all his "jobs" there. Despite many challenges, through the dedication and determination of the Berlin School Professionals, he learned to walk, ride a bike, feed himself, and dress himself. His beloved Luanys Betts helped Leo everyday for five years, through inclusion and believing, Leo inspired everyone he met. Leo's greatest passion was music and he was recently featured in Aha! a documentary about the power of the arts in the lives of children with special needs. He had great natural rhythm and Loves his drumming. Leo was an honorary member of the band FBI and was often found onstage with many local bands, touching the hearts of many. Leo performed onstage in a real rock concert with Imagine Stage Productions last summer. Leo's summer Love is boating on his Captain Leo's Aqua Therapy' and daily driver' on his lake, Leo's Utopia. Leo had a special love for American Muscle cars and Native American Powwows. He also enjoyed his quad, sledding, kayaking, cuddles, and making mischief. Leo lived life to the fullest, participating happily in everything he did. He loved learning and trying new things, without fear, always with a smile, wanting more. "Mo" He had many amazing caregivers, family and friends helping his Mom over the years, who implored an out of the box' method of teaching. In particular, Old MacDonald which was used as a bridge to communication that allowed Leo to learn so much. Leo also learned to count by tapping his hand to the back of his other wrist, both amazing accomplishments! Leo simply didn't believe in giving up or giving in. "Because that is how Leo rolls." Calling hours will be held at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home 411 South Main Street, New Britain, CT 06051 on Friday, June 10th from 5PM-8PM. On Saturday, June 11th, all those who loved Leo are invited to meet at there by 9:00AM to follow a motorcycle procession past his school to a memorial service at Berlin Congregational Church 878 Worthington Ridge, Berlin, CT 06037 that will start at 10AM. In lieu of flowers, donations to The Leo Ray Foundation can be made at/ mail to Webster Bank 40 Webster Square Road, Berlin, CT 06037 The family of Leo Ray Banks would like to send a special thank you to The Berlin and New Britain City Police, The CT State Police Motorcyclists, Robert Chadwick, Bobby Parker and Steve Houle, also Stephanie Blouin Patterson, Julianna Sgro-Sartini, The Son's of Abraham, Iron Legend, Thug Ryders and Trantolo & Trantolo that escorted Leo on his final ride through blocked streets while in the rain with sirens blaring and The Grunts Veteran Group with American flags flying. Thank you for such a grand tribute to Leo as that is how he rolls ? A heartfelt thank you to Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home of New Britain, Pastor Matt McCaffrey of Berlin Congregational Church and Leo's speakers, Paula Riley-Friedman and Nora Matthews, for such wonderful services; as well as the Emma Hart Willard Staff, PTO and The Rock Cats for the firework dedication to Leo. We'd also like to offer our warmest appreciation to the many musicans who took part in Leo's services: Chris Newell, Chris Marolda, Lee-Ann Lovelace, John Ryan, Art Loomer via proxy and Explicit Rock-Band as that is how Leo rocks ? We'd like to express our very deepest gratitude to Robert Chadwick, Ernie LaMadeleine, Gina Parker, Carlane Riston, Nancy Renehan-Houle, Nora Matthews and Luanys Betts for handling the many logistical details throughout the week and for their invaluable emotional support through this very difficult time. Finally we wish to thank all the many family and friends holding us up along the way... so much love to you ALL ?