Vance R Leavitt

Vance R Leavitt passed away peacefully on August 10, 2025, at the age of 93, after a long and wonderful life. He was born on November 9, 1931, in Cardston, Alberta, to Thomas and Gretta (Remington) Leavitt, and was raised on a farm in nearby Glenwood. Growing up during the Great Depression and World War II left a lasting impression on him, shaping his resilience, work ethic, and character. Vance was a good student, worked hard on the farm, and as a teenager he enjoyed basketball, and worked building grain elevators.

After graduating from high school, Vance served nearly three years as a missionary in Australia for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He loved the people and places he encountered, and this experience deepened his faith in Jesus Christ and sparked a lifelong love of living abroad. When he returned to Alberta, he met his beloved wife, Marquitta Elton, in Calgary. They were married on July 18, 1957, in the Cardston Alberta Temple. Together they began their family, welcoming a son and three daughters while living in Calgary and Edmonton.

In 1963, Vance, Marquitta, and their young family emigrated to London, England. From the moment he stepped off the plane, he felt inspired that he could make a life there for his family-and he surely did. They settled in Surrey and later North London, where they lived for 56 years. During that time, Vance built a successful sales business, welcomed four more daughters, and worked tirelessly to provide for and nurture his family. A skilled craftsman, he renovated their home and garden with care, creating a beautiful place filled with love.

Vance was blessed with a keen, curious, and creative mind. He loved reading and learning, especially about history, and his sharp memory made him a living encyclopedia of information. He held deeply considered thoughts and opinions. His life was faith-driven, grounded in a deep conviction of his Savior, Jesus Christ. In his church service, business, and family life, he was selfless with his time and resources, always putting others’ needs ahead of his own. He showed wisdom, patience, and love as he counseled and encouraged others, striving to live a principle-centered life with Christ as his constant guide.

Vance was a devoted father, enchanting his children and grandchildren with humor, stories, and games. He brought creativity and joy to every holiday and celebration. Even while living an ocean away from his grown children and grandchildren, he visited whenever possible and dearly loved each of his eight children, 33 grandchildren, and 66 great-grandchildren. Above all, Vance cherished the great love of his life, Marquitta. Their life together was a grand adventure filled with love and loss, trials and triumphs, all faced with courage and unity. With her passing in 2023, they were separated only briefly and are now joyfully reunited forever.

Vance was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Gretta; his twin sons, Derek and Darren, who were born prematurely; his grandson, Thomas Sandgren; and his siblings, Clark, Lorna, and Wyona. He is survived by his sister, Valda and his children, Melanie Sandgren, Lisa Leavitt, Timothy Leavitt (Dana), Shannon Hawkins (Matt), Suzanne Pericle (Tony), Natalie Cobb (Nathan), Vanessa Sutton (Thomas) and Jessica Cook (Michael); along with his 33 grandchildren and 66 great-grandchildren. Vance will be dearly missed. His large presence leaves a void, but his example and legacy will continue to inspire all who loved and knew him.

A Funeral Service will be held for Vance at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - 24th Street Chapel (10923 - 24 Street SW, Calgary) on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 11:00 am with a viewing being held prior at 9:30am in the Relief Society Room. Those that wish to watch the webcast of the service may do so at this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83848439431