JEAN WIGGINS LEECH (JEFFERY)

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JEAN WIGGINS LEECH (nee JEFFERY) Jean Leech passed away peacefully on June 24, 2010 at the age of 85 following a courageous battle with cancer. Remaining to cherish her memory are: daughter Karen Stewart-Paley (Ted), son Randy Leech (Darlene), daughter Tannis Kotchon (John), son Jeffery Leech (Trish); grandchildren, Marina (Trevor), Gavin, Jared (Hope), Lindsey, Tyler and Kyle; great-grandchild Payton; sister Pearl Snodgrass; brother-in-law Everett Barton, and sister-in-law Marlene Dickson (Fred). She was predeceased by her husband of 57 years, Lorne, son Derry, mother Alice, father Isaac, brothers, Beecher, Bruce, Alfred, Amos, Gordon, Harold, sisters, Lottie, Mae, and Louise. Jean was born in Young's Cove, NB on May 3, 1925. She moved to Winnipeg as a young woman in search of a career. It was in Winnipeg where she met her husband Lorne. They were married on July 17, 1948. Jean had a great zest for life and loved to spend time with family and friends. Her home was a constant bustle of activity. Jean loved to cook, and Sunday was reserved for family dinners. During the summer, the family cottage at Falcon Lake was a place of enjoyment. Over the years there was many a card game played at the kitchen table. Early on, these games were played under the light of coal oil lamps. While mom didn't really like water, she ensured that her children and grandchildren learned to swim, water ski and drive the boats. One day, under pressure from the kids, she water skied one lap just to prove she could. What a way to quiet the crowd! Throughout their married life, Jean and Lorne traveled to many warm parts of the world. In retirement, Jean found her permanent winter home in Bradenton, Florida at Bayshore on the Lake. She and Lorne spent many winters enjoying Florida with family and friends. Jean was an astute businesswoman and was involved in many enterprises during her career including Lance Distributing, Lance Developments and the Dakota Hotel. Jean loved to spend time at casinos trying her luck at the slots. She was very lucky and according to her math, she always came out ahead. Jean's favourite sport was curling. She played the sport actively for years. Recently, she could be found in front of the TV whenever there was a televised bonspiel. It was a well known fact not to visit when a game was being played, unless you agreed to watch! Jean believed in education for success. She spent many hours encouraging her children and grandchildren to continue to a higher level of education. In her 60s, she went back to school and achieved certificates in both Hotel Management and Interior Design. Jean was an avid reader throughout her life. A novel, magazine or newspaper was never far out of reach. Above all, Jean was dedicated to her family. She continually offered guidance and support whenever it was needed. We will all miss her dearly. The family wishes to extend thanks and gratitude to the staff at Grace Hospice, St. Boniface Hospital, CancerCare Manitoba and the Palliative Care Program for their care and compassion. Following Jean's wishes, there will be a private family service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jean's memory to the Grace Hospice, c/o Grace Hospital Foundation, 300 Booth Dr., Winnipeg, MB R3J 3M7 or CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, 675 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0V9. GREEN ACRES Funeral Home and Cemetery 1 Green Acres Lane, Springfeld (204) 222-3241 Hwy. #1 E. inside the Perimeter at Winnipeg Condolences may be sent to: www.greenacresfuneralhome.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 03, 2010