Doreen Leslie

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our mom and grandma, Doreen Leslie.
Mom left us Sunday, October 11, 2015 surrounded by her family after a brief but sudden illness.

Doreen is survived by her husband of fifty-seven years, Gil and her children Gale (Bert), Lori (Mike), David (Angie), and Scott (Debbie). She is also survived by her grandchildren Colin, Ian (Kyla), Cory, Cherie, Ryan and Christine and step grandchildren Sarah (Allan), Amy (Mark), Aaron (Ashley).

Mom immigrated to Canada in 1958 from Edinburgh Scotland. Dad had come to Canada in 1957 and following her heart and a long distance romance she joined him here, was married and they started their life together. Dad's job took the family to many locales. They started their lives in Toronto then moved to Thunder Bay where the girls were born. Next transfers to North Bay and Mattice. When their family moved to Smooth Rock Falls mom and dad changed the lives of two brothers by adopting them together...something they both dearly and continually appreciate. A quick stop in Geraldton and finally Winnipeg where mom and dad put down lasting roots. Mom really enjoyed getting involved in community activities like curling, bowling, golfing and Guides/Brownies. She loved playing Bridge and going to Bingo. Mom made lasting friendships no matter where she lived and the steady stream of visitors and well wishes this past month were a testament to how much she was loved and respected by all.

Mom enjoyed to travel. Cruises to Alaska, Panama, Caribbean and the eastern seaboard. Trips to Scotland, Italy, Malta, tours of Europe, and winters out west or down south with family or friends were always cherished.

Mom was also a very creative person. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, sewing and her latest passion was Swedish weaving. Mom was an avid gardener and each May after a winter of planning she would get to work getting her vision to become a reality. Her greatest gift was her abilities as an oil painter. She did beautiful work which was enjoyed immensely by family and friends.

The biggest joy of Mom's life was spending time with family. Christmas was always a special occasion for her. She greatly enjoyed an evening of playing cards, board games or going to the casino. Mom became an avid sports fan while living in Winnipeg. She loved her Bombers and more recently the Jets. You could always expect a phone call with a post game analysis on what she thought after every game. Mom was a big supporter of all of the activities and sports that all the kids or grandkids were involved in throughout her life. She was very proud of all our accomplishments and endeavours.

We are all very saddened and shocked with her passing. Mom/Grandma we love and will miss you so very much.

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2015 at 10:00 am at Thomson "In the Park" Funeral Home, 1291 McGillivray Boulevard.

A heart felt thanks to all of the staff of 4 South at the Victoria General Hospital for their care and compassion these last few weeks.

In lieu of flowers we would ask that a donation be made to The Heart and Stroke Foundation or to The Canadian Cancer Society, two of the charities Mom volunteered for during her life.