WILLIAM LEANDERS

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WILLIAM LEANDERS It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Bill Leanders on March 19, 2015 with wife Jean by his side. He was predeceased by his parents Betty and Peter Leanders, and mother and father-in-law Bert and Harold Christiansen. Bill is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 59 years, Jean, daughters Kathi Gudmandson, and Terri (Rob) Kaufmann, and granddaughters Jill and Kim Gudmandson, and Ashley Kaufmann. Bill was born in Ottawa, Ontario on January 17, 1933 and grew up in Calgary. He came to Winnipeg at age 18 and worked with MTS in various positions for several years. In 1965 Bill was given the opportunity to work with NORAD for two years on a telecommunications project in Ottawa where he and his family enjoyed exploring Eastern Canada. Upon returning to MTS in Winnipeg he discovered his talent for marketing. After further successes in sales, Bill went into business with best friend and best man Bill Hansen. He eventually owned a restaurant equipment company in Florida where he was able to pursue his passion for golf. Bill loved Lake of the Woods where he built a cottage for his family. He had wonderful memories and stories of hunting and fishing at "the lake" with good friends. Bill was a big believer in giving back. He was a driver for CancerCare and because of his own successful recovery from cancer, he had great empathy for the people he drove and always had time to listen. Bill was so proud of his granddaughters and took pride in their accomplishments. They had a special relationship and he happily attended all their activities. The family wishes to thank Dr. Cam Lowden for his compassionate care over the years, and also appreciates the kindness shown to Bill by the staff at Victoria General Hospital during his extended stay. At Bill's request there will be a private family interment. In lieu of flowers, to honour Bill's memory please make a charitable donation or perform a random act of kindness. Bill tried to live his life like his favourite hymn "If I can help somebody along the way, then my living will not be in vain".

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 21, 2015