LEONARD ALEXANDER JOHANSSON

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LEONARD ALEXANDER JOHANSSON July 20, 1933 - January 19, 2018 Peacefully and on his own terms, Len Johansson passed away in the early hours of January 19, 2018 at the age of 84. Len was predeceased by his wife Helen Johansson in November of 1993. He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his very special partner of 23 years Naomi Jensen, his only child Ron Johansson and wife (Sue Ruff); granddaughters, Kara (Luke), Stefanie (David) and Emma. Also left to mourn his loss are Naomi's children, Naomi Schaap (Gill), Chris Schaap (Carol) and Peter Jensen (Cindy); and his sisters, Margaret of Kindersley, BC and Helen of Stockton, California. Dad was born in and grew up in Vancouver, BC. His childhood wasn't an easy one, but at a young age, he willingly took on the role of caregiver to both of his sisters. He held a special place in his heart for his younger sister Margaret, which persisted even after many years apart and distance between them. He joined the Canadian Military in 1951, and went on to fight in the Korean War, which had a significant impact on him and would directly influence his life in the years to come. After returning from Korea, the military took him to Manitoba where he met his wife Helen, and they began their family. Dad was never short on words and always had a story to tell whether it was about his time working as a kid in logging camps, fighting in Korea, being a bartender at the Pembina Hotel or a salesman for Sunbeam. Dad was proud to be a Mason and ultimately a member of the Shrine. He began with the Drum and Bugle Corps and ultimately played an integral part in the circus management. This work allowed the Shrine to help fund the Shriner's Hospital which gave him a great sense of accomplishment. As his son, I was excited and proud to watch my dad march out with the band - he couldn't be missed at a towering 6'5". He was also a member of the Fort Rouge Legion and Rockwood Army and Navy. In his retirement, he worked tirelessly for the Korean Veteran's Association and The Last Post Fund where he was able to help numerous veterans. Stories of his leisure time at Grand Beach playing crib, horseshoes and snowmobiling were always legendary. He told epic tales of his hunting and fishing and amassed a museum of taxidermy thanks to his "hunting son" Ron Dare. He loved curling and was a member of the Fort Rouge Curling Club where he ultimately played in the Provincial Finals in the Winnipeg Arena. Later in life he was able to share this love of curling with his partner Naomi. In their 23 years together, Len benefitted from her nurturing ways, love, care and dedication. For many years she put his needs ahead of herself becoming his ultimate caregiver. The day before he passed, he gave us the gift of laughter, with his gestures and whispering words, as he "held court" one last time. After many years of struggling with his health, Dad is finally at peace. We all love you and hope your journey was a smooth one. You will always be my giant of a Dad!! Special thanks to Dr. Fayez Salem for his care and compassion, and for going the extra mile with all your home visits. Heartfelt thanks to Yesel who became part of our family with her dedication to his care over the last two years. Also thanks to HCAs Maria, Lawrence, Lizbit, Janet, Imelda and our first healthcare aide and friend Daphne. Cremation has taken place. A spring graveside memorial at Thomson "In the Park" Cemetery and a celebration of his life at the Rockwood Army and Navy will follow. Date and details will be posted here at a later date, as well as on dignitymemorial.ca
Publish Date: Jan 27, 2018

LEONARD ALEXANDER JOHANSSON July 20, 1933 - January 19, 2018 Peacefully and on his own terms, Len Johansson passed away in the early hours of January 19, 2018. A longer obituary will follow on Saturday, January 27, 2018.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 27, 2018