Leonard Roy

Born to Leonard and Myrtle Roy on September 27, 1951 in Sioux Lookout Ontario, Len was the oldest of six siblings. He was predeceased by both of his parents, his sister Laurel, mother-in-law Eva, great-grandson Kayden and his niece Cheyanne.

Len is survived by his loving wife of 30 years Darlene, his daughter Lisa, grandchildren Tyson (Delicia), Emma, great-grandchildren, Mila and Ava, siblings Larry (Brenda), Carolyn (Yvan), Brad, and Janeen.

Uncle Lenny also loved his nieces and nephews, Lisa (Jeff, Evan, Charlie), Shawn (Krista, Emery, Isabelle, Kate, William), Melanie (Dave), Andree, Danielle (Brady), Stephan, Nikki (Kylee, Drew), Keanna, Kerriann, Trisha, Caitlin & Aimee.

Len always understood the value of hard work which resulted in a variety of accomplishments throughout his career. He started his career with CN Rail and left after 10 years to pursue opportunities with the Manitoba NDP government. Len spent 10 years as the Executive Assistant to the Minister of Health before returning to CN Rail until his retirement. He spent many hours regaling his family and friends with his stories of being a Trainmaster. One of his proudest career achievements was a letter of recognition from the CEO of CN Rail.

Len was involved in many things in his life including playing and coaching hockey at high levels. He was scouted by the Chicago Blackhawks as a teenager. He also coached the Selkirk Stellers of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. In his mid-years his love for curling took him to many bonspiels. He had a love for gardening, woodworking and general fixing and building. Len “always knew the best way” to do things and wasn’t afraid to share his thoughts with anyone, sometimes diplomatically.

Len’s favorite place on earth was at the cottage at Rice Lake, Ontario. He was 14 years old when his parents bought the cabin. Len spent 57 years on the family land loving absolutely every aspect of the lake. We will always remember Len wearing his railroad striped coveralls, no matter the weather, enjoying his lake life. He achieved his goal of building his dream cottage there. Len and Darlene enjoyed many years of sharing good times with lake friends, feeding the Jacks and Jays, swims in the waterfalls, hotdog roasts, fishing with the kids and quad rides to the lakefront, enjoying every day to the fullest.

Len fought a long valiant battle against cancer with determination, humour, and grace. He will be remembered for his love of his family and for how he strived for fairness and compassion for all no matter the circumstance. Len will be deeply missed by his family, his dear friends and close neighbours.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the MS Society of Canada or Kidsport Canada in Len’s memory.

Arrangements entrusted to Mandi Wasylkowski