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NICOLE MARIETTA LESLIE
Born: Sep 21, 1955
Date of Passing: May 17, 2021
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to Winnipeg Humane Society
NICOLE MARIETTA LESLIE
Born on September 21, 1955 in Winnipeg Manitoba, Nicole is survived by her two younger brothers, Guy (Stephanie) and Alain, her five children, Stéphane (Brandie), Robert (Dawna), John-David, Heather (Paul) and Jasmine. Another title she proudly wore was that of "Grandma Nini" to her three grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Bennett and Colt.
Nicole studied at Université de Saint-Boniface and her professional life guided her down many paths that explored her various talents and passions, ranging from an entrepreneur to a LPN. She had a vivacious personality and a "gift for gab" that allowed her to foster wonderful connections everywhere she went. She could tell you all about the local butcher or the girl at Starbucks, and remembered the smallest of details. She showered people with compliments and even during her last days was raving about the nurses' beautiful eyes or hair. Perhaps, Nicole's love of fashion stemmed from her days working with modelling agencies and applying stage makeup, a talent that came in handy for halloween costumes that were sure to win first place!
Nicole had a gift for cooking and was famous for the extravagant holiday meals she would host and her decadent birthday cakes. For each of her children's birthdays she would cook their favourite meal, which was far better than any gift that could be bought. To our family, her most prized possession was her recipe box. She loved hot summer days picnicking on the beach or finding tranquility while tending to her garden. On these outdoor ventures, she'd often find injured or abandoned animals to rescue. Whether it be a raccoon or baby sterlings that had fallen from their nest, she'd nurse them back to health. Nicole was very proud of her family's musical background and music played a large part in her daily life, often performing kitchen concerts with her youngest daughter Jasmine. She loved the stylings of Céline Dion, Carole King and The Carpenters, to name a few. It's likely that Nicole's knack for thrifting solely funded Sally Anne's business, as she enjoyed granting items a new life... and would brag about a good deal for weeks!
She was extremely resilient and grounded in her Faith. In fact, it's possible she holds the record for "the most bibles to ever have been found in one apartment!" She spent much of her time studying the word and making notes on scripture. She will be happy to meet her Lord and Saviour and to be reunited with her mother Janine and father Hector.
She promised to announce her spiritual presence to us here on earth in the symbol of a hummingbird. Nicole was a lot like a hummingbird, as she couldn't sit still!
Memorial donations or volunteered time may be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society (45 Hurst Way, Winnipeg, MB R3T 0R3) where she had adopted many of her beloved pets.
A Celebration of Life will be held much later, when social gatherings have returned to semi-normal standards. Make a donation to

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 22, 2021
Condolences & Memories (8 entries)
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My deepest condolences to Nicole's family. We were in the same 8th grade class and shared our teenage years together. Nicole was the sweetest, most generous soul. She was beautiful, musical, artistic, kind and bigger than life. "How does one become a butterfly?' Pooh asked pensively. "You must want to fly so much that you are willing to give up being a caterpillar." Piglet replied. "You mean to die?"asked Pooh. "Yes and no" he answered. What LOOKS LIKE YOU will die but what's REALLY YOU will live on. A.A. Milne Peace be with you. - Posted by: Helene Cormier Compton Leipsic (childhood friend) on: May 24, 2021
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My sincere condolences to her family of their huge loss, especially Stephane to whom I still consider my nephew. We shared a lot of good times her and I, we had fun introducing ourselves to folks as we both shared the same name. Sometimes we would reply at the same time echoing our name proudly. You will be missed "ma belle Nicole" may you rest in peace. You will never be forgotten. God bless! - Posted by: Nicole Rondeau (Former sister in law) on: May 23, 2021
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We are cousins and I'm so sorry to hear this news. Although I've been far away my heart is still in WPG. never forgetting the famiy I left behind. I remember Nicole's beauty and talent. I remember her mother & grand-mother . My husband , Ron & I and family send you ou deepest sympathies & prayers. I'm so sorry for your loss. Just keep the memories close to your heart. Lots of love, Claudette from LA CA - Posted by: Claudette LaFleche-Giesinger (cousin) on: May 22, 2021
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My condolences to all the family of Nicole. Her cheerfulness and loving nature will always be remembered. - Posted by: Fran (Friend) on: May 22, 2021
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Awe Nicole I will miss our conversations and laughs. You are definitely one of those women who impacted people with your presence and life experiences, a lived life. An inner strength beyond comprehension. I will forever remember your smile through all adversities ! Love you... fly high my friend fly high... - Posted by: Pamela (Friend) on: May 22, 2021
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I had met Nicole once, she was a bright soul. May your family find peace. Fly high, Nicole. 🕊 - Posted by: Casey (Daughters Friend) on: May 22, 2021
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Our sincere condolences to all of the family. Leo & Anne Emond - Posted by: Leo Emond (Friend of the family ) on: May 22, 2021
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I am so sorry to hear of Nicole’s passing. I got to know her through our children attending Victor Wyatt school and always loved chatting with her. She was beautiful inside and out. Always smiling and happy. She always complimented me on something and I remember thinking this stunningly beautiful woman is complimenting me wow I wonder if she knows how beautiful she is. Sending hugs and prayers to the family - Posted by: Linda Gammon (Friend) on: May 22, 2021