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ROBERT FRANCIS DE LEEUW
Date of Passing: Feb 08, 2016
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryROBERT FRANCIS DE LEEUW It is with heavy hearts that the family announces the sudden and unexpected passing of Rob De Leeuw on Monday, February 8, 2016 at the age of 45 years. Rob will be lovingly remembered by his parents, Bert and Marilyn and brother Chris. As well as, Rob's uncles and aunts, Lorne and Wendy Novak, Harry and Jane, Danny, Marcel and Beverly, David and Cathy De Leeuw, grandmother Madeleine De Leeuw, and many cousins and friends, especially Tom Dampsy. He was predeceased by grandparents Edward and Evelyn Novak and Harry De Leeuw. Rob was born on November 11, 1970, and was raised and educated in Winnipeg. Rob was a very affectionate, loving and expressive child, with a head of white blonde hair that you couldn't miss. Rob attended Christ The King School and graduated from Dakota Collegiate. His love of football brought him to the St. Vital Mustangs as a wide receiver. His pride and joy was when his team won the Provincial Midget Championship in 1988 and the M.M.F.L. League Championship in 1989. His career ended in 1990 with a "blown knee". He always wore his championship ring with great pride. Besides football, he enjoyed hockey, golf, target shooting, fishing and hunting. During his work career he was a security person at St. Boniface Hospital, and a machinist at Palliser Furniture and Monarch Industries. He was exceptionally creative and was always looking to improve the workplace. He loved working with his hands and was ready and able to fix anything. The things that were dear to him over the years were his time at Lake of the Woods, his angel of a dog Keana, his yellow jeep, the surf board he brought back from Hawaii, his house and his many good memories with family, especially cousins, whom he loved dearly. Rob lit up the room with his beautiful smile and no one could forget his wicked sense of humour. We will remember his laughter, his kindness to others, friends and strangers alike, his loyalty and friendship. Grandma is going to miss his regular phone calls as they discussed life and the world around them. He had a quiet and strong relationship with God and the Blessed Virgin Mary. The family would like to thank Dr. James Krahn and his uncle, Dr. Frank Renouf, for all their care and effort in helping to support Rob over a number of years. You are both very exceptional people. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations in memory of Rob may be made to the Children's Wish Foundation. Cremation has taken place and a funeral mass celebrating Rob's life will be held on Tuesday, February 23, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. in the Roman Catholic Parish of St. Timothy, 135 John Forsyth Road. The Coutu Family in care of arrangements: E.J. COUTU & CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 680 Archibald Street 204-253-5086 ejcoutu.com
Publish Date: Feb 20, 2016
ROBERT FRANCIS DE LEEUW It is with heavy hearts that the family announces the passing of Robert Francis De Leeuw on Monday, February 8, 2016 at the age of 45 years. Robert will be lovingly remembered by his parents, Bert and Marilyn and brother, Chris. Funeral arrangements are pending and a longer obituary will follow. The Coutu Family in care of arrangements: E.J. COUTU & CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 204-253-5086
Publish Date: Feb 13, 2016
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 20, 2016
Condolences & Memories (45 entries)
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I think of Rob often. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. - Posted by: Kelly (Friend ) on: Feb 07, 2019
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to Bert Marilyn and Chris . It is with great sorrow I heard of Robbie's passing. There is no grief worse than the passing of a child. I will always remember Robbie with his blonde hair and jovial personality..As a quote by Sir Walter Scott Is death the last sleep? No it is the final awakening. Thinking of you always Dr.Gaeth Carrick. - Posted by: Dr.Garth Carrick. Ozark Ar Usa (Freind) on: Mar 11, 2016
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Rob and I have some very special memories from a few years back. He will always be in my heart and be a part of my soul. I respected Rob and his views of the world and how he trusted and opened his heart to everyone. He did make me a better person. Rest in peace in the arms of God. I will never forget you, Rob. - Posted by: Erika Reynolds (Close friend) on: Mar 01, 2016
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We are thinking about your family and the loss of your son, who will be greatly missed. - Posted by: Cynthia and Bob Nash (Friend of Bert and family) on: Feb 24, 2016
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I am heartbroken for you all. You are in my heart and prayers - Posted by: Paula MacMillan () on: Feb 23, 2016
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Dear Marilyn, Bert & Chris, I was so very sorry to read of Rob's death upon returning from vacation. I cannot imagine the depth of your grief. Please know that my heart and my prayers are with you through this time. - Posted by: Linda Wilton (Friend) on: Feb 23, 2016
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Dear Marilyn, Bert and Chris - We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult. - Posted by: Gus and Agele Scouras and Helena Wall (Friends of the family) on: Feb 23, 2016
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It was with sadness that we learned of Rob's sudden death & we send you & your family our deepest sympathy. - Posted by: Dale & Don Bedard (Friends of Bert & Marilyn & former co-worker at SBGH) on: Feb 23, 2016
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To Marilyn, Bert and Chris, I just heard through mum and dad that Rob passed. I am soo sorry to hear this news, stay strong and keep his memory in your heart...that way he will never be gone. Hugs -Pamela - Posted by: Pamela Lammersen (Friend) on: Feb 23, 2016
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I had the pleasure of meeting Rob at Kiwanis events like the annual Sportsmens Dinner. He was always so willing to lend a hand at getting final logistics ready, selling tickets, etc...all to help his father and his community. Deepest sympathies to the family - Posted by: Juliette Mucha (Friends to Bert & Marilyn) on: Feb 22, 2016
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We are just so sorry to hear about Rob's death....our thoughts are with you..parents should not bury their children...he was such a cool kid!!! - Posted by: Janice and Charlie Braekevelt (friends of the family) on: Feb 22, 2016
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To Marilyn,Bert,Chris,Rob's family and loved ones. Sending my sincere condolences during this very painful time. I, like so many others remember Rob's infectious smile and outgoing friendliness.The yellow jeep was such a familiar sight in St.Vital,and Rob loved to give friends a ride in it,sharing his excitement.Prayers and and much love. May Rob rest in peace. - Posted by: melanie joss (High school friend) on: Feb 21, 2016
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We were terribly saddened to have just heard the news of Robert's passing today, as we are currently out of the country. We extend our heartfelt thoughts and condolences to the De Leeuw family on their loss. Rob was a great son and we cannot imagine the scope of your despair. - Posted by: Roger and Joan Tychonick (Friends of family) on: Feb 21, 2016
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I was part of a fortunate set of high school friends, who were able to share so many fun and happy times with Rob. We spent some May long weekends with silly antics and campfires on the beach at my parent's cabin. High school lunch hours packing into someone's car and heading to St. Vital park. Weekends looking for a place to all hang out together. But, my most fondest memory I will hold is his smile and gentleman like demeaner. Thank you for those memories Rob. My deepest sympathies to Rob's family and his friends. May God grant to him eternal peace... - Posted by: Yolanda McGowan (Janik) (Friend) on: Feb 21, 2016
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Dear Marilyn & Bert, my sincere condolences at this most difficult time. I can't imagine the pain in loosing a child. You are in my thoughts & prayers, love, Marianne Ostermann - Posted by: Marianne Ostermann (Friend from Healing Ministry) on: Feb 20, 2016
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I still find it so surreal that your gone Rob....we had many years together of wonderful times and memories. You were my first true love and my best friend. Many years of holidays out at the cabin with our dogs and some great friends....great Christmases with our families, lots of laughs and lots of love. You were such an incredible man, smart, witty .... Oh and funny guy...I still laugh about funny things that went down. My parents send their condolences to your family as so I. I will never forget you Robbie, you were one of a kind.... I will miss you Always In My heart my dear friend.....Lisa McCrie - Posted by: Lisa McCrie (My first tl) on: Feb 20, 2016
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Oh the stories that Jeep could tell....... Awesome person, hilariously nerdy, heart of gold and overall nice guy! rip my friend. - Posted by: Krystal M (Friend) on: Feb 20, 2016
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Bert, Marilyn and family, There are no words that can be said when a child (regardless of age) predecesses a parent. I am so sorry for your tragic loss. Jocelyn Greenwood - Posted by: Jocelyn Greenwood (family friend) on: Feb 20, 2016
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Dearest Bert,Marilyn & Chris Our hearts ache for you , in the loss of your precious son, we pray that the wonderful memories of Rob will give you comfort & peace, to go through this very hard time .you are in our thoughts & prayers. We think of you often & miss you so much , where does the time go ? Sending you lots of love , Hugs & healing prayers for this very hard time .Claude & Agnes Roziere - Posted by: Claude & Agnes Roziere (Friends ) on: Feb 20, 2016
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Dear Marilyn , Bert and Chris, So very sorry for your loss. Please accept my deepest sympathy. - Posted by: Madeline MacKenzie (Friend) on: Feb 20, 2016
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I would like to extend my condolences to the De Leeuw family. I had the pleasure of coaching Rob during that championship season as his receiver coach. Although our time was brief, I remember what a committed and hard working player Rob was. He will be sorely missed along with his teammate Rick Cancilla. Maybe they're playing ball on another field somewhere....along with coach Ladd. - Posted by: Jeff Anderson (coach) on: Feb 20, 2016
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We were neighbours with Rob living just a few houses apart. Rob was a kind hearted, generous, sincere person. Rob 's front door was always open, greeting you with his friendly smile. He provided a safe space for my three boys rambunctious boys whenever they forgot their house key. I would find them having snacks and video games and when it was time for them home to come home they would say "can we stay another five minutes? The five minutes often turned to half an hour as the boys loved hanging out with Rob. Rob would also take my boys to his cabin for a weekend. They would come back very excited. Knowing my kids, I would would ask Rob if they behaved. He would only have kind and encouraging words, "Tia they were great, my brother and I put my mom through a lot worse! He was a sweet soul. To Rob's family, our deepest condolences. RIP Rob. - Posted by: Tia Metaxas (Friend) on: Feb 20, 2016
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My heartfelt condolences go out to Rob's family. I will surely miss the presence of a great friend. He is always cheerful and gets along well with others. Rob, may your soul rest in peace. We will miss you... - Posted by: Bernie Barrion (Supervisor Monarch Industries) on: Feb 20, 2016
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"And all the roads we have to walk are winding And all the lights that lead us there are blinding There are many things that I Would like to say to you but I don't know how..." - Posted by: Randy Buttassy (friend) on: Feb 19, 2016
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My deepest condolences Bert & Marilyn. I can't imagine the pain of losing a son. I hope you find much strength in the memories of the man you raised. He was blessed to have you as parents. - Posted by: David Claeys (Friend & Family) on: Feb 19, 2016
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I couldn't ask for a much better cousin than Robbie. I have some great memories growing up. Although he was a much older cousin, he always did his best to make me forget the age difference. He was always cracking jokes and bringing smiles to everyone's faces. I enjoyed each time we spent together. Every time I think of him, I always think of that great smile that could light up a room. I miss you and love you Robbie! - Posted by: Marco De Leeuw (Cousin) on: Feb 19, 2016
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Our son, Trevor was a good friend of Rob & lived with him for awhile. Trevor has some very nice memories of Rob. We are so sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Carol & Jon Kreviazuk (Fiend) on: Feb 17, 2016
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Dear Bert, Marilyn and Chris. We were shocked and saddened to hear of Rob's passing. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Love Wendy Ross and Kerry - Posted by: Wendy marsch (Cousin) on: Feb 16, 2016
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My heartfelt condolences to you all. Rob was one of a kind and all around great person. The yellow jeep was how we became friends. I was driving home from the lake with a few friends and Rob was as well. He liked my car and I liked his jeep, so we thought it was a great idea to switch vehicles on the number 1. When we got to the city we came to realize our cabins were only 5 minutes away from each other and our friendship was formed. Our paths crossed often but unfortunately we lost contact over the last few years. Mr. & Mrs. De Leeuw your son was a incredible person and I feel very blessed to have known Rob. I am so truly sorry. - Posted by: Kelly Fawcett-Neufeld (Friend ) on: Feb 16, 2016
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Bert Marilyn and Chris, we are so very sorry to hear of Robbie's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredibly painful time. We have fond memories of the kids growing up on Speers. - Posted by: Philippe & Jacqueline Lavack and family (former neighbours) on: Feb 16, 2016
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A brother from another mother at one time. I too have countless memories of rob from cruising in the yellow jeep, fishing at the cabin to crashing in his basement countless times and I will cherish them all. Bert Marilyn and Chris you have my deepest condolences at this time try to find comfort in knowing be him a son a brother or friend he will remain in the hearts of all the people he touched rest in peace my friend . - Posted by: Raymond ward (Friends ) on: Feb 16, 2016
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Rob and I attended school together at Holy Cross and our paths crossed many times throughout the years; he used to take me driving in his big yellow jeep - his pride and joy at the time. I'd see him driving all over town because it was one of a kind! I'm sorry to say that we did eventually lose touch but I'd hear about his shenanigans from some of our mutual friends. He always had a big bright smile and a twinkle in his eyes; he was always polite, a real gentleman. Mr and Mrs De Leeuw, you have every reason to be proud of your boy. I am so very sorry to hear about this tremendous loss. - Posted by: Monique (Viallet) Stratton (School Friends) on: Feb 15, 2016
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Dear Bert and family: My sincere and deepest condolences on your loss. Kind regards, Bob Greenhalgh - Posted by: Bob Greenhalgh (Former Realtor) on: Feb 15, 2016
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Bert and Marilyn, there are no words... ...please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your Family at this most difficult time. We had the pleasure of knowing your son for many years. Robbie was always friendly and took the time to enjoy conversation with us. It was just a few short months ago when we once again sat at the same table with Robbie at the annual fundraiser at The Norwood Hotel and caught up with each other's lives. There are no words...His memory will live on in our hearts. Love, Bob, Deb and Ashley Goodfellow - Posted by: Bob and Deb Goodfellow (Friends) on: Feb 14, 2016
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I worked with Rob for many years.He was always cheerful and happy and made me and everyone else laugh. He will be sadly missed - Posted by: Warren Falk (friend) on: Feb 14, 2016
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I will always remember Rob as this curlied hair ball of fire. I went to school with him at Hastings where the three musketeers ran the yard ,Paul Kevin and him. After he left Hastings I was lucky enough to meet him again at Holy Cross school. Where we again got I to lots of trouble. You will be missed Rob, rest in peace my friend. - Posted by: sharon nowrang nee Thevenot (friend) on: Feb 13, 2016
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My heart goes to his family. Rob was part of our close group in high school. He was so good to me at one of the toughest times of my life. I'm forever grateful. He was a super funny, sweet, handsome guy. May he be at peace. Until we meet again Rob. Xoxo - Posted by: Ivy bagg (Friend ) on: Feb 13, 2016
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I always remember that Cheryl baby sat the boys and what a hard time they gave her! That was quite a long time ago. I always remember as well what a wonderful mentor you were during our time in Emergency. I ache for your loss, I pray for you and pray that God gives you the strength to see you and Bert through this. Grace and Jerry - Posted by: Jerry and Grace Lawrence (Co worker at SBGH and friend) on: Feb 13, 2016
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may the memory of Robbie bring you strength and comfort .our sympathy goes out to you. - Posted by: maurice and yolande manaigre (former neighbor) on: Feb 13, 2016
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RIP Rob. You will be greatly missed. I figure i would write on here since i never was able to sign your chimney. - Posted by: richard schade (friend) on: Feb 13, 2016
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Dear Bert, Marilyn & Chris, Our very sincere and deepest sympathies go out to all of you. You have been dealt the toughest card that life has to deliver.....our thoughts and prayers are with you. Hugs, Brian Baizley and Janice Day - Posted by: Brian Baizley (Friend of the family) on: Feb 13, 2016
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About 25 years ago I worked with Rob at a local car dealership.. We only worked together for the one summer but I have good memories of that time. In fact, I have one recurring memory that still makes me laugh to this day. The two of us were asked to each drive a car back from Steinbach to the dealership in Winnipeg. I remember Rob passed me on the highway and all I could see was the top of his head (it looked as though no one was driving the car). It made me laugh then, and to this day, I can't have someone pass me on the highway without thinking of Rob. I know this may seem silly to some people, but it's those "silly" moments in life that are important to remember. I just wanted to share this memory with you. Take care. Jason Wells - Posted by: Jason Wells (Friend) on: Feb 13, 2016
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Rob was life of the party !! He will be greatly missed by all his friends..... Bye rob - Posted by: Jim and jeremy rogowski (Friends) on: Feb 13, 2016
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I never met Rob but talked to him on the phone several times when he always sounded so cheerful.But I know how he struggled and my heart goes out to you all as I know how you have worried for so long.God bless. - Posted by: Skye Harte (Mother of Kevin Harte.Robs room mate.) on: Feb 13, 2016
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Dear Marilyn, Bert and Chris. We are terribly sorry for the loss of your beautiful son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Love, Cam and Michelle - Posted by: Michelle and Cam Thompson (Friends of the family) on: Feb 13, 2016