Leonard George Gwilt

With deep sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Len Gwilt, our dear Father and Grandfather, at the age of 96 on September 25, 2024, in North Vancouver. Len was predeceased by his beloved wife Sonia in 2018 and brother Donald in England in 2020. He is survived and terribly missed by his children, Mary (Frank Battista), Alex (Wendy) and Jessica; grandsons Stephen Battista (Rebecca Schmunk) and Thomas Battista; extended family in England and Chile and lifelong friends here and beyond.

Dad was born in Bournemouth, England on August 30, 1928. He and older brother Don were brought up by their mother Elaine. His British upbringing shaped his character as a true gentleman. He was also creative and adventurous and had a long career as an Architectural Association Graduate Architect, Project Manager and Planner extraordinaire living and working in England, Chile, Venezuela and Vancouver where he worked for many years and retired from H.A. Simons. A trip to Chile in 1954 changed the course of Dad’s life when he met our Mom Sonia Castillo, whom he married in 1956. Our family grew and emigrated to Vancouver in 1970. Thanks to our parents we had an incredible family life including travel and interesting adventures. Some of Dad’s favorite activities were spending time with his grandsons, reading, and watching sports on TV including golf, World Cup soccer and his favorite EPL Bournemouth Cherries.

We wish to thank the amazing care aide team at Sunrise of Lynn Valley for the wonderful care they gave Papa Len during the last 16 months of his life. We are heartbroken at the loss of our Dad and Grandpa but we are so grateful for all the wonderful memories we have of his long life. A Celebration of Life and reception will be held on Friday, October 18, 2024, at 10:00 AM at First Memorial Boal Chapel, 1505 Lillooet Road, North Vancouver.