On January 19, 2024, we lost our devoted mother, Lesley Anne Scheeren. She passed away peacefully and with grace at her Metchosin farm, surrounded by her loving family. Lesley was 65 years old.
Lesley was born on July 21, 1958 in Comox, BC to parents Fred and Joyce Phillips (both predeceased). Her family eventually made their way into the Greater Victoria, BC area when Lesley was at a young age, where she spent most of her life. She would marry her high school sweetheart, John Scheeren, where they would begin their journey as parents in 1980 with the birth of their first son, John Richard (J.R.), and then, a couple years later, would add the final member, their second son Robbie. After spending many years in Victoria, Lesley and John eventually moved out to Metchosin, BC in 2007 into their little piece of Heaven that they cherished.
Lesley had a career of over 25 years working for the Provincial government, most notable with the BC Pension Corporation, where she made many close friendships and was very dedicated to her profession. Lesley also had a short career after her retirement where she provided childcare at her home that she loved. Nana Coco, as she was known by her little ones, loved caring for the children and watching them grow up. Lesley, during that time, also housed high school exchange students and exchange program students from Wild Arc, where she formed very strong relationships with. Lesley was also part of the horse community as she had three of her own. She was always thankful of the support of this community and the wonderful people she met along the way whom she loved.
Lesley’s (Mom’s) true passion was her family whom she was ever so dedicated to. Her absolute love and support for us through the years will carry within us forever as her flame burns bright. Mom is predeceased by her beloved husband John, and deeply missed by her son’s J.R. (wife Kate) and Robbie (wife Patti) along with her most cherished grandson, Brooks. Mom was in her most happy place when she was surrounded by the family. She was a beautiful soul and we were blessed to have her as our mother.
Mom, you are free of pain. Go and ride into Heaven with the same grace you lived your life, and know that the love you had for your family is forever imprinted in all of us. Go be with Dad.
The family requests that donations be made in her name to the BC SPCA Wild Animal Rehabilitation Centre (Wild ARC) in lieu of flowers. https://spca.bc.ca/locations/wild-arc/
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
19 Responses
JR and Kate and family, I’m so sorry for your loss. What a beautiful soul your mom seems to have been. I’m thinking of you during this most difficult time.
My husband and I send our sincere condolences to you all. I only met Leslie a couple of years ago through her Uncle Arnold. My mother Betty Gotfredsen spoke often of Leslie and John and how kind they were to my mom (and Arnold). I got to know Leslie more after my mother passed. I do not make friends easily but there was a connection between us that we both kind of felt for one reason or another, who knows, other than I am extremely grateful and thankful to Leslie for the all too brief time we enjoyed together. My husband Rob and I always wanted to make time to see Leslie when we travelled to Victoria from Ontario. Leslie was a unique sole, extremely strong and compassionate and saw the good in everyone, Mother Earth is crying after her loss, as she lost one of her earth gardians. You can rest now and find John. If you see my mom please give her a hug.
J.R and Robbie my deepest condolences as you mourn your Mom. I remember you both from Saint Andrews High School. May forever memories comfort and be assured of my prayers.
JR, Robbie and families,
I’m so sorry to hear about your Mom. She was such a lovely person – a beautiful smile, twinkle in her eyes and a deep love for her family. Both your folks were great people. Even though I didn’t see them much lately, I always enjoyed my time with them.
Deepest condolence JR,Kate,Robbie,Patti and Brooks.
I will always cherish the beautiful memories I had with Lesley.Going to the farm was something I looked forward to and was always welcomed with opened arms and always over the top meals.Lesley was a kind beautiful lady with a heart of Gold I loved helping her with the farm animals which she had a huge love for especially her horses.
RIP my beautiful Sister,you will always be in my heart and always be my Angel ❤️
You are with your Love now ❤️
So sorry to hear about your loss.
I worked with Lesley for a couple of years at Pension Corp. She was a beautiful & fun loving lady.
It’s been several years since I’ve seen her but I will never forget her. My thoughts are with you.
We will miss Lesley , the bright and shining light of her smile, down at the mailbox, or on occasion when she rode down on her Gator, to hang around the campfire with us on Friday nights . Dave and Franci . Neighbors❤️
Growing up with Lesley’s sons, her and John’s house was where we all wanted to hang out. They always felt like your parents away from home but also they felt like friends at the same time. As sad as it is to lose Lesley so young it is comforting knowing that she is now able to grab John a beer again.
I met your mom at minor hockey where she became the President of VMHA and I was the registrar. We got to be friends and enjoyed our time together for those years, which included games, meetings and travelling to conventions. She had an incredible way of seeing ‘what needed doing and got it done’. She was a woman of strong values that she stood for staunchly. After hockey days we occasionally ran into each other always meaning to get together and catch up. I’m so sad that I let that opportunity get away. Lesley had so much to feel proud of. She was a strong, smart, kind, funny and extremely honourable woman of character. Will always remember her for her incredible qualities. My heart goes out to you JR and Robbie and your families.