Our loving father, husband and grandfather passed away on May 23, 2022 at home after a brief illness. Leonard is lovingly remembered by his two sons Curtis (Betty) and Ian (Andrea) as well as his grandchildren Carter and Alina. He is also survived and missed by his brother Leo (Shirley) and sisters Leona Wilson, Lucy Gray (Bernie) and Mary Gavin (Jim). Also left to mourn his passing are his god children, many nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends.
Leonard was predeceased by his parents, John and Sophie as well as his loving wife of fifty three years, Julia. He was also predeceased by his brothers, Joseph and Edmund and sisters Rose and Stella.
Leonard was born and raised near Wishart, Saskatchewan where his family operated a mixed farm. In 1963, Leonard married Julia Lib and for short time lived on the family farm. In 1965 their first son Curtis was born and shortly thereafter the family moved to Saskatoon. Even though Leonard and Julia moved away from Wishart at this time , the community always had a special place in their hearts, with many relatives and friends present there. Leonard spent many hours helping his relations on the farm over the years, whether it meant driving a grain truck or combine or helping out anyway he could. In 1976, their son Ian was born in Saskatoon.
Leonard spent many years in travelling sales as a young man, working for Electrolux Canada and General Foods. During the mid seventies Leonard was hired by Schenley Distilleries where he remained for the rest of his career, first as a sales representative and later as Sales Manager for Saskatchewan, retiring in the early 2000’s.
Leonard was a true “character” who loved life and those close to him. He was a devoted family man who also treasured his extended family. He was always good for a joke or a laugh and lived to tease his many nieces and nephews. He was a crafty three spot player (at least that’s what he told everyone) and he loved to entertain and was a very hospitable host. Julia and Len loved to garden and summers were spent watering, picking weeds and preparing vegetables and growing beautiful flowers.
As important as family was to Leonard, so too was his faith in god and his response to those in need. Leonard was a proud 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus and a long time member of Holy Spirit Roman Catholic Parish.
Julia passed away in 2016 and Leonard lived his remaining years at the Knights of Columbus Manor in Saskatoon. He became an active member of the community there and made many friends over a game of cards or a drink or two… He will be missed by all his friends there.
Leonard lived a good life, a full life, filled with laughter, good times and some not so good times. He loved his family and his wife very much. He is now reunited with her in heaven under God’s grace.
The Vigil of Prayer will be held on Monday, May 30 at 7:00 pm, and the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, May 31 at 10:30 am. Both liturgies will be celebrated at Holy Spirit Parish (114 Kingsmere Place, Saskatoon). Rite of Committal to follow at St. John’s Columbarium (816 Spadina Crescent East, Saskatoon).
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to KC Charities, 2940 Louise Street, Saskatoon, SK S7J 5K2. Arrangements entrusted to David Polzen.
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K.C. Charities2940 Louise St, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7J 5K2
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