With sadness the family of Leslie (Owen) announce his peaceful passing, surrounded by love, at the Espanola Regional Hospital on October 18, 2024.
Predeceased by his beloved wife Bennie (Margaret Isabel Benedict) (July 30, 2021) after 69 years of marriage. Together they raised 4 children who will forever live in gratitude for the time they had them. Cherished Dad to Susan (Tony), Thomas, Sandra and Marlene (Kelly). Predeceased by infant son Kenneth (1955). Adored Papa to Rebecca, Ryan (Amanda), Liz (Landon) and David (Carly). Loved and remembered by great grandchildren Brooke, Taylor, Lauryn, Lleyton and Emery. Also remembered by many nieces and nephews and extended family.
Dad was born in 1928 in Hamilton, Ontario to Efrosina and John Owen. He was the youngest of 6 children (all pre-deceased). Mom and Dad raised us kids at Community Beach by the shore of Lake Ontario in Stoney Creek. It was a great place to raise a family…the lake, a skating pond and a huge field for adventures. Dad loved the outdoors and was always happiest puttering outside. In 1976 they moved north and landed in White River, Ontario where they ran the White River Freezer and Trading Post for many years. Dad also had a trap line and trapped well into his 90s. We all carry happy memories of time spent with Dad/Papa at “the cabin”. In 2021 they left White River for Espanola.
Dad, some days we’ll be strong, some days we’ll be weak, some days we’ll be so broken we can barely speak but the light and love you and Mom leave us will fill our hearts and hold us up.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
The family would like to thank Dr. Alison McMillan and staff at Espanola Regional hospital for their kindness and care. Thanks also to Dad’s PSW, Sylvie.
“In the sweet by and by we shall meet on that beautiful shore”.
Cremation services provided by Simple Wishes of the North, Sudbury.