May 8, 1938 – September 28, 2026

Les was born in Puslinch, Ontario, and died in his 99th year. He grew up attending a one-room school in Crieff before going to high school in Guelph. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Education at the University of Toronto, where he also played hockey for Knox College.

His first teaching job was in Thessalon, where his ability to play hockey for the local team helped him land the position. It was there that he met Roberta Marian Duncan (Bobbie, who predeceased Les in 2006). They married in August 1956 and moved to Dryden, where they both taught at Dryden High School. They later built their family home on Dingwall Parkway. Mary Lea arrived in 1958, and Doug followed in 1965.

For 20 years, Les organized the conservation camp at Dryden High School, giving students a chance to see forestry in action. His own children, Mary Lea and Doug, attended as well.

In 1968, Les and Bobbie built a camp on the north shore of Ghost Lake, where the family spent many happy summers together. Les enjoyed playing hockey and baseball and was known for his pitching. He stayed a loyal fan of the Winnipeg Jets and the Toronto Blue Jays, too.

Les gave generously of his time to his community, serving on the board of First United Church, supporting the Dryden Legion and serving as Captain McPherson with the Dryden Army Cadets, which took him to Churchill for training. He retired in 1983 as department head of Pure and Applied Science.

Retirement gave Les more time to explore Canada, spend winters in Jamaica, and enjoy cruises.

Les will be lovingly remembered by his daughter, Mary Lea (Matt); his son, Doug (Amanda); and his granddaughters, Sarah Onyschuk and Melanie Osborne (John).

A celebration of life will be held at a future date.