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LT.-COL. (RET.) WILLIAM (BILL) GORDON LESLIE
Born: Mar 10, 1934
Date of Passing: Oct 01, 2012
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryLT.-COL. (RET.) WILLIAM (BILL) GORDON LESLIE March 10, 1934 - October 1, 2012 Peacefully with family at his side our beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away at the age of 78. Bill is survived by his wife Marlene, brothers Ron (Babs), Barry (Marlene), sister Bernice (Kaz); son Terry (Peg); grandchildren Jessica, Mackenzie and Alexander, daughter Lorilee (Vernon); grandchildren Taylor and Aidan, daughter Zoe and grandchildren Melanie, Andrew, Jo, and Shannon; Marlene's family: Kelly (Peter) grandchildren Kendra, Kiera; son Kirby (Debbie) granddaughter Jayelyn; daughter Jody (Stephen) grandchildren Alyssa, Ian, and Caitlyn. He was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Anne, his brother Douglas (Theresa) and his late wife Arlene. Bill discovered his passion for flying at the age of 10 when a disoriented student pilot crash landed on the family farm in Minitonas, MB. Bill's flying career started after high school when he joined the RCAF. Bill flew everything from fighter aircraft to helicopters at bases in France, California, and all across Canada. After retirement he enjoyed a successful 20-year career with Maritime Life Assurance Company. He also became an ardent member of the Masonic Lodge. Dad/Bill was the embodiment of the Leslie family motto Grip Fast. Throughout his life his character and actions displayed self-discipline, integrity, kindness, and commitment and love of his family. Although Dad could not carry a tune in a bucket, he was a music lover and amassed a large collection of his favorite recorded tunes. Dad's patience and nerves of steel were demonstrated in his flying skills but tasks such as setting up tents or assembling anything with instructions easily got the better of him. Thanks, Dad, for all your help and support over the years. Thanks also for instilling in us the fine qualities of your character. Rest assured we will pass those traits to your grandchildren. Well done, good and faithful servant. Matt 25:21 In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice. Funeral service will be held on Friday, October 5 at 2:00 p.m. in the Trinity United Church, 933 Summerside Ave., Winnipeg. Funeral service in Swan River will be held on Tuesday, October 9, 2012, at 2:00 p.m. in the Paull Funeral Home. Interment and refreshments to follow at Heritage Memorial Gardens. For online condolences or to light a memorial candle please log on to www.mosaicfunerals.ca 1839 Inkster Blvd. 1006 Nairn Ave. (204) 275-5555
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 04, 2012
Condolences & Memories (6 entries)
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Dear Marlene & family: We have many good memories of Bill on 430 Squadron in France in the 50s. We recall he was an Elvis fan and could do a good imitation of Elvis and "Nothin' But A Hound Dog". Our sincere condolences to everyone. Fondest regards, John & Joan - Posted by: John & Joan Farnham (Squadron friends) on: Oct 06, 2012
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We had some good parties in Bill and Arlene's trailer at Gros Tenquin! - Posted by: Gerry Thorneycroft (430 Squadron buddy in early '50's at 2 Wing, France.) on: Oct 06, 2012
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Bill and I flew together during our tour on squadron. We were also close friends in the Officers Mess and at many parties. Bill was a gregarious, easy to like guy and viewed as such by all his squadron mates. I had the pleasure to host Bill and Marlene at dinner in Winnipeg a few years ago. A great loss. - Posted by: J.A. (Blackie) Belanger (Squadron friend on 430 (F) Squadron,2(F) wing. France.!954-57) on: Oct 05, 2012
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Bill was a friend of my husband Joe (passed away 2003. My sincerest condolences to his family and Marlene (we met at the SPAADs reunion in Winnipeg 2004) Bill & Joe flew together in 2wing France - Posted by: Beda StAmand (friend) on: Oct 05, 2012
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We send our sincere sympathy to his family. We have fond memories of your Dad. We hadn't seen him since we moved to Calgary in 1995. We were at a couple of the family weddings and at Bill & Arlene's 25 th Wedding Anniv. & they were at ours so we have lots of fond memories of your parents. I am sure you will miss him very much. He was a fine & handsome man. Sincerely, Joy & Frank - Posted by: Joy & Frank Van Dusen (Old friends of your Mom Arlene & Bill. I was a Robinson from Swan River.) on: Oct 05, 2012
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Marlene, I am sorry to read about Bill's passing. You were both such good neighbors to us across the street on Thurston Bay. Reading his beautifully written obituary was proof that he certainly lived a full life. Marlene, you are in my heart and prayers at this very sad time. - Posted by: Lorna Conway (OLD NEIGHBOR ) on: Oct 04, 2012
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