Leo took his final flight on April 30th, 2018. An educator in the Cowichan Valley and flying instructor in Victoria and Nanaimo, he was a life-member of the Duncan Flying Club. An avid reader, he was interested in everything, particularly in the people he met and their lives.
Born in Temiscaming, Quebec, he joined Canada Services College Royal Roads from 1956-58 where he met his soulmate, Valerie, with whom he spent the next 55 happy years. He was a kind, gentle soul, and a wonderful, loving father to three daughters. Hockey, boating, flying and travelling were his passions. He visited many parts of the globe which included many air museums!
He is survived by his sister, Lola (Cobden, Ontario); many nieces and nephews; his wife, Valerie and their three daughters, Melissa (Dave), Monica, Heidi and his cat ‘Meeko’.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Mike Coleman
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Lise Pagé Mes sincères sympathies to Léo’s family. I had the pleasure of working as a teacher under Léo’s leadership. I have very fond memories of him.
He had an authenticity and integrity that inspired me.
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Wilma Millette I would like to offer my sincere condolences. I worked with Leo for many years at Duncan Elementary School in the French Immersion program. He was a beloved principal, well respected and well liked. I remember fondly staff parties at his home and plane ride adventures with Leo. Sincerely, Wilma Millette.
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Graham Thwaite (aka Limey) My deepest sympathy to Leon’s family on his sudden passing. I and his other friends in the 45th flew on line many hours and enjoyed his company. He was a real gentleman and will not be forgotten.
Rest in peace Rap.
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Brian Stott Dear Valerie, Missy, Monica and Heidi,
My sincerest condolences to you all. Leo was the most vibrant man I’ve ever met. He will be sorely missed by everone who knew him.
My thoughts are with you,
Brian Stott
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Guy Violette Dear Valerie and family,
Thinking of you and your loved ones at this sad time.
There are no words that can truly ease the pain of a loss like this … but if caring thoughts can help, they are with you right now.
May he rest in peace.
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Don Unger Dear Valerie and family,
I have good memories of chatting with Leo ” after hours ” at Koksilah Elementary. He had a fine sense of humour and was a great team leader in our Open Area days.
I had several opportunities to fly with him, including a flight with my boys to Tofino, and was impressed by his attention to safe navigation.
My sincerest condolences.
Don Unger
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Philp family Dear Valerie – So very sorry to read the sad news that Leo has taken his final flight. We all send you and your family our love and deepest sympathy. We know you will miss him very much. John, Beryl and family
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Lise Lefebvre Campbell Condolences to the family. Leo was my mother’s (Léatrice Vaillancourt Lefebvre) cousin.
Lise Lefebvre Campbell
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Peter and Heather Lord Leo was always the perfect Gentleman as a fellow Educator, and the consummate Family Man in all he accomplished.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
Peter and Heather Lord
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Leslie Rejminiak My dearest Monica and family,
You join a club no one wants to. The more you love and are loved the harder it is. I am holding you in my heart and feeling your pain. I am here and I love you.
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Deb Williams I would like to offer my condolences to Valerie and family. I worked for Leo when he was V.P. at Duncan Elementary School and also the Coordinator for French Immersion for the District. He was always such a joyful man, and very proud of his family. It made working in that dungeon of an office much more enjoyable. I know you must miss him terribly. Best wishes to you all.
Deb Williams
Leo was a fine educator and a committed citizen. I worked with him in his political role and always found him pleasant and positive. He was a good man. My deepest condolences to the family.