Leon Alfredo Varsano

Leon Alfredo Varsano passed away peacefully on October 7, 2024. He was a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Leon was born in Brazil on March 11, 1935, to Moyses Varsano and Albertina Viera. He was a proud Brazilian and also a proud naturalized US citizen. He lived a long and impactful life.

Leon was a world-class photojournalist and cameraman. He worked in film in Brazil, as documented in his IMDB page, and traveled the world filming the Brazilian National Soccer team. He counted Pele as a friend. He eventually moved to San Diego in the mid-60s where he embarked on a 37-year career with KGTV News Channel 10, earning multiple awards and countless accolades, including having a Leon Varsano Day bestowed on him by the City of San Diego. As a cameraman, he filmed the extremes of shootings, crashes and disasters, as well as covering restaurants with his acclaimed partner, Jack White. He was the consummate professional.

Leon always enjoyed a great meal, watching soccer, relaxing with family, and traveling. He liked to play golf, goalkeeper in a soccer league, ping-pong, and the slots at the casino.

Leon's first marriage was to Maria Guimarães. They had two daughters, Monica (Fraker) and Isabela (Sessions), and then 8 grandchildren. Sadly, Maria predeceased Leon after 39 years of loving marriage.

Leon is survived by his wife of 25 years, Antonieta Varsano and her two children, Rinaldi Pisani and Antonella Pisani, as well as Rinaldi’s wife Christina and their children Julia and Mia. He was a wonderful, doting husband to Antonieta, a “bonus” grandfather to the girls, and a friend to Rinaldi and Antonella. Leon and Antonieta were able to share many wonderful trips during their years together; they visited Europe and joined the Pisanis on spring break trips around the country and holidays on the East Coast. He was known as the great Mr. Lion to the Pisanis and their friends.

He is also survived by Monica, her former husband William Fraker, and their children Fallon, Brandon (deceased), William, Wyatt (deceased), Darryl, and Dylan, and 9 great-grandchildren. He is survived by Isabela, her husband John Sessions, and their children Kathryn Nicole Mayer and Trent Sessions, and their spouses Kevin Mayer and Elissa Autumn Sessions and 2 great-grandchildren.

Leon’s trademark was his wit and majestic mustache. He was a big presence and he will certainly be missed.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity.