LESLIE GEORGE HOOPER

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LESLIE GEORGE HOOPER

Leslie George Hooper passed away
suddenly, yet peacefully, at his home in
Paradise Village, MB on October 24, 2020. He was 82 years young.
He was predeceased by brother Jack and parents George and Emily.
Les is survived by his children, Warren (Carolyn) and Joni (Brad), his granddaughter Lila, and his brother Ken (Darlene). He is
lovingly remembered by his children's
mother, Donna, numerous nieces and
nephews, and close friends, Silvia, Larry and Pat.
Dad was born in Portage la Prairie on May 25, 1938. The son of a railroader, his family moved frequently, resulting in Dad enjoying a unique childhood with boyhood experiences that were rich and authentic. He was a
master story teller and his adventures were endless.
From an early age, Dad was resourceful, smart and hardworking, finding various odd jobs to earn pin money. He loved games of chance, was a fierce competitor, and a
natural born athlete. He enjoyed many sports and was a proud member of the 1960s Portage Dodgers Fastball Team, who were crowned National Champions. Dad excelled at curling, a sport in which he remained active most of his life. A highlight was skipping his team to the Canadian Men's Masters in 2003, and
returning on Team MB in 2007.
Dad followed his brother Jack in joining the RCAF, serving from 1956-1961. In the mid 60s, he started a family and obtained a
Psychiatric Nursing Certificate, which led them to the West Coast for three years. He moved the family back to Portage in 1972 and started a business with brother-in-law Kelly McIvor. Sun and Snow thrived for many years. We learned much from Dad's
industrious and hardworking ways during this time, particularly the skills and dedication
required to start and grow a small business. He was involved in our lives and there when it counted most, cheering us on in sports, and helping us navigate the challenges of life with his wisdom.
In the 80s, Dad moved to Winnipeg, where his career focused on the world of real estate. In 1994, he attained his CRA certificate in
record time.
His gifts of being personable, engaging and charismatic, served him well, along all his
career paths. He touched many people throughout his life and had a wonderful sense of humour, one that dared you to smile.
His retirement years in Paradise Village were among his happiest and most creative. He enjoyed working in his yard and not only collected, but fabricated unique metal
creations that he displayed with pride. A
natural leader, Dad organized many events that brought people together in Paradise. He loved entertaining and lending a helping hand to his friends, family and neighbours. He was a true animal lover and spent many contented hours with his beloved companion and dog Emma.
Dad was always vibrant and full of life. He referred to his granddaughter Lila as, "an
extension of his dreams." At family
gatherings he would proclaim, "I couldn't want for more". Selfishly, having known the true gifts of Dad's humour, kindness,
generosity and love, we, his family and friends, find ourselves left wanting more.

If Someone gave us wishes,
We would wish for one last embrace.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 14, 2020