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July 3, 2020
Born in Thunder Bay, Ontario in the late summer of 1930
Resident of Stories Beach, Campbell River, BC.
Passed away peacefully, on his own terms, at the Campbell River Hospital July 3rd, 2020.
Les grew up in Thunder Bay and as a young man he went west. He worked in the carpentry trade as a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America in 1949. He worked in Terrace, Ocean Falls and other large construction projects in BC. He later became a Charter member of Local 2300 in Castlegar. He built the family home in Kinnaird where he and his wife raised 7 children.
Work and fairness on the job had Les fighting for the underdog throughout his career. He was the Kootenay area Trustee to the Carpenters' Workers' Welfare and Pension plans. As a trustee for the Carpenters' apprenticeship Board of BC, Les arranged upgrading courses for over 300 trades people from Fernie to Grand Forks. Les was the first person to pass the trade's qualification test in the Kootenays and later became an Examiner for the Department of Labour on the trade qualifications tests.
The Nelson - Trail District Labour council had him sit as Vice President and shared the duties of Labour rep on the Appeals Board of the UI commission.
Life seasons changed and Les moved to Vancouver Island for a fresh start.
Once settled in Campbell River, Les again served the call to help workers and his community. He held the Vice President then the President position of Local 1989 of the Carpenters' Union. He retired in 1991 with an Honorary Lifetime Membership and received his 50 year gold card.
Pre-retirement, Les ran a small friendly fishing charter business, which allowed him to share his passion for the ocean with many new friends. He and his new partner Helen travelled Cuba and Central America. They enjoyed learning together about Mayan culture and meeting new people.
Community was always important to Les. He helped in election campaigns for all levels of government. He also spearheaded the campaign for free parking at the local hospital and networked with other concerned citizens to shorten wait times for heart procedures. He made a difference and left behind a big set of shoes to fill.
Les will be greatly missed by his partner of 40 yrs, Helen, his sisters Faye and Marilyn, brother David, his adult children Gerald (Vera), Bruce, James (Rose), Donald, and Leslie Jr. , many grandchildren, nieces and nephews and dear friends. Les was predeceased by his parents, his sister Carol and his children Debra and Robert. His canine pal Teddy is missing his cuddles and their walks at the park.
Thank you to the excellent nursing staff in ICU, Dr Stern, Dr. Eckford, and Dr. Dhansay for their expert care.
A private graveside service was held Tuesday July 14th at the Elk Fall cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Campbell River branch of the First Open Heart Society c/o Lois Jarvis, 221 McLean St, Campbell River BC V9W 2M4

" When the trials of life resolve into peace, the soul finds its way to the light"


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