LEONARD (LEN) HARGRAVE

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LEONARD (LEN) HARGRAVE Len Hargrave, born Leonard Wilfred Hargrave October 18, 1920 in London, England passed away peacefully on October 9, 2005. He put up a courageous fight with a lengthy illness in and out of hospital, but thanks to the wonderful care provided by the palliative care people and Tracey and staff of 7AW, St. Boniface Hospital his wish was granted and he was able to spend his final weeks in his own bed at home, surrounded by his family and friends. Len was a wonderful dad to daughter Jackie (Roger) and sons, Alan (Ruth) and Andrew (Clare). He was granddad to Simeon (Joyce), Dale (Georgina), Brian, Cherissa, Allysha (Fran), Brendan, Kevin and Michael. More recently he was blessed with great-grandchildren, Kimberly, Nyko, Ashley, Noah, Brenna, Braeden, Jordyn and Rylee. He spent the last two of his well years caring for his beloved wife Paddy, who eventually preceded him on September 21, 2003. He was also preceded by his daughter Pat in 1961. Len first experienced life in Canada for three years during the Second World War where he was assigned as an instructor in the Commonwealth Flight Training Program. This taste of life on the prairies prompted him to bring his wife and three children back in 1954. They left their family and possessions behind in England and faced many lean years as they struggled to establish roots in Canada while raising a family. In order to support a young family back in the 1950s he sometimes held two jobs. However, even though there were financial struggles he always found ways to put food on the table and ensure his children had gifts for Christmas and on birthdays. Thanks to a young William Mercer who recognized Dad's skills he was started on a long and successful career as a pension administrator. His most enjoyable days of work were his years at James Richardson Sons where he eventually retired. Len was baptized in the Anglican faith shortly after the tragic loss of his daughter Pat. While developing his new found Christianity he was able to combine his natural gift of music. He was a talented, self taught pianist and singer who brought joy to many people, young and old, through his music. For many years he led the choir at St. George's Anglican Church in Transcona, and more recently, at St. Paul's Anglican Church in Middlechurch. He was an unselfish, caring person who always put the needs of others before his own. During the early years in Canada he loved to take the family on camping trips. He has certainly passed on the joy of the outdoors to the younger generations of his family. After retirement he and Paddy continued to travel in their camper all over North America, with the occasional trip back to England where they maintained family ties. While struggling with his illness he missed Paddy terribly and in the end was granted his wish to be with her once more. Very special thanks to his friends, Sheila and Madelaine who provided him with so much love and support and to Fraser, Helen, Bill, Robin and all the wonderful people of St. Paul's. God bless you all! There will be a service to celebrate the life of Leonard Hargrave at St. Paul's Middlechurch at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 12. Please, no flowers. Contributions may be made in Len's name to the St. Paul's Middlechurch, 299 Balderstone West, St. Paul, MB R4A 4A5 (marked building fund ) or to a charity of your choosing. Thank you! CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 11, 2005