LOUIS IRVING LEIBL

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LOUIS IRVING LEIBL After a full and vital life, Lou Leibl died peacefully at his home in Winnipeg on December 27, 2002. He will be greatly missed by his wife Kassie; his children, Raymond, Susan, and Ashley; grandchildren, Phillip, Jennifer, Jonathan, Sara, Marli, Lexi, Benji, Aaron; and great-grandchild Samantha; as well as daughters-in-law, Ingrid, Nona and Susan; and son-in-law Bill. Lou had friends of all ages, whether on the golf course, at the bridge table, at work, or in the many other aspects of his life. People loved being around him because of his quiet, easygoing manner, humility, and sense of humour. He was a true friend and always good company. Street smart, savvy, yet always forgiving and open-minded, people respected his ability to cut to the heart of any issue and provide genuine advice. Lou Leibl was born August 20, 1917 in Shaunavin, SK. He was married to first wife Freda for 40 years. Lou was a successful businessman, and worked in the tire industry for over 65 years - right until his death. His workplace resembled the United Nations, and people who have worked for and with him have shown enduring loyalty. In life and in work, Lou was at once the master and the student. During the Depression, he learned how to survive in lean times through his enviable talent for innovation and persistence until he achieved success. He never forgot that success in life was built upon honour and integrity in relationships. He was a skillful and fair negotiator in business, which earned him respect and long-term relationships with many of his associates and colleagues. He also valued the importance of ongoing learning and regularly hired a tutor to upgrade his computer skills. One of Lous favourite places was the Winnipeg River - where he loved to fish. He also loved horses - a modern cowboy with his various hats, suspenders and distinctive walk. Lou learned to rollerblade not too many years ago, and was an avid golfer, getting three holes in one. He was famous for his inspired cooking - pickles, salmon patties, chicken jarkoy were his specialties. Finally, Lou loved music. He took piano lessons in his 70s and enjoyed singing at spontaneous gatherings with friends and family. His character always emerged through his kindness and generosity of spirit. He helped others around him in profound ways, expected nothing in return and wished to remain anonymous. He celebrated others successes as he would his own. He had great dignity and even at the end of his life, was more concerned with everyone around him than with himself. Each of Lous children feels very fortunate to have had him as their father. He was an inspiration to his grandchildren, taking an interest in their lives, always encouraging and supportive. He shared a special relationship with his grandson Benji, recognizing Benjis unique strengths and taking pride in his accomplishments. One of Lous favourite mantras, which seemed to guide his life was: "Do it by the book... but be the author!" Donations may be made in Lous honour to CancerCare Manitoba, care of Dr. James Johnston, Leukemia Research, 675 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 04, 2003