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RON WASYLYCIA-LEIS
Date of Passing: May 21, 2022
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or Memory
RON WASYLYCIA-LEIS
Ron, the rock of his family and an extraordinarily generous member of his community, died suddenly at home with Judy by his side after suffering a heart attack on Saturday, May 21, 2022.
Ron died just three months short of his 50th wedding anniversary. He was Judy's partner in life and in politics. He was the most amazing father of Nick and Joe, often handling house and home single-handedly and always loving and supporting his sons unconditionally through many challenges and adventures.
Ron was born in Wellesley, Ontario where he leaves his older brother Gary Leis (Brenda), and his sisters, Judy Johnson and Sandy Poole (George) to mourn his passing. He was predeceased by his parents, Harold and Ruth Leis. He was loved by everyone in the Leis and Wasylycia clans.
Ron was heavily involved in his community, an activist for equality rights, and a good friend to all who knew him - always bringing laughter and joy, as well as tech support, to every family and neighbourhood gathering. He was an invaluable member of the Bannerman Green Not-for-Profit Housing Co-op, loved singing in the St. John's Cathedral Choir, and was active on the board of EPIC Opportunities.
Ron loved playing his guitar for Nick and supporting Joe on his many marathon runs. He was an avid pickleball player and loved long bike rides with Judy. He read voraciously, enjoyed the theatre, symphony and opera, played to win at solo and euchre, and was already planning his weekend getaway with the guys at Betula Lake.
Ron graduated in 1970 from Elmira District Secondary School where he met Judy, and from the University of Waterloo in 1974 with an Honours BA in Math and Computer Science after which he worked as a computer technologist, most recently with Peaceworks Technology Solutions, a B Corp, using the power of business to solve social and environmental problems.
A celebration of Ron's life will be held at St. John's Cathedral, 135 Anderson Ave., at 2:00 p.m. on June 21, 2022. Masks and proof of vaccination for COVID-19 are required. The service will be available virtually, to be livestreamed at https://youtu.be/ceskU-WNsoM.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Epic Opportunities, www.epicmb.ca, the residential care agency that has supported Nick for almost 18 years, and where Ron continued to serve as an active board member until his death.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 04, 2022
Condolences & Memories (17 entries)
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I worked with Ron in the ICG building (16th floor) from spring 1983 to spring 1986. He interviewed me for that job. Besides Ron's working relationship excellence already commented on by others, my favourite anecdote was that Ron arranged for us to interview in Stratford, closer to his hometown. I only had to drive about 1 hour to the interview; he later confessed that he did that because he thought that's where I LIVED (see my last name); we never quite joking about that fiasco. My condolences to Judy and sons. - Posted by: Al Stratford (Co-worker/subordinate) on: Oct 08, 2022
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Only knew Ron through business with Peaceworks organization. Ron was a great people person, and he made our dealings with computer systems much more agreeable with his personable manner. He treated his customers in such a friendly way, and his staff did the same. From a customer's point of view, he seemed to lead with his heart and I really appreciated dealing with him for our small business. I sorely missed him when he left Peaceworks. Well wishes for the family. Sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Mireille Fiola-Hein (business) on: Jul 22, 2022
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May your heart and mind hold all the love that your husband gave you. Remember that there are many people who love you and will be there to love and support you at this time. Please let all of us know how we can be useful at this time. Much love. Stay well during this COVID time. - Posted by: Anne-Shirley Clough (Neighbour and Friend ) on: Jun 16, 2022
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Sincere Condolances to you Judy, Nick and Joe. Also Ron's siblings Gary, Judy, Sandra and families. We have many great memories as a child visiting your family in Wellesley. Always lots of fun and good food. Cherish your wonderful memories! Sincerely, Darlene Steinmann, Becky Cook-Alles (Vineland) - Posted by: Becky Cook-Alles (Cousin) on: Jun 16, 2022
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I was so saddened to hear of this news. I share my condolences with Judy and the family. Rob was a delightful and helpful man. I can not recall a service where I didn’t enjoy his booming voice. And thank goodness for his tech skills, he was such a great asset to the church and a compassionate and caring man! - Posted by: Trina Bourgeois (Former church member ) on: Jun 15, 2022
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We were deeply saddened to learn about Ron's passing. He was an exceptional man - totally committed to his family, his community and his political beliefs. His ready smile and quiet serenity clearly communicated that he had found the right place in life. We offer our sincere condolences to Judy, Nick and Joe. May your memories of Ron's commitment and devotion give you strength as you go forward. - Posted by: Doreen Penneys and Eugene Szach (Friends) on: Jun 09, 2022
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With sadness we offer our heartfelt condolences to Judy and family on Ron's passing. We are so grateful our paths crossed and thankful for a cherished friendship. Memories of time shared strengthen us. - Posted by: Joyce and Fred Harland (Friends) on: Jun 08, 2022
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To Judy, boys and extended families, I could hardly believe that Ron had suddenly passed away recently and so share in your shock and grief. I met Ron decades ago when Judy and I served as federal parliamentary interns - he was a true pioneering male feminist at that time and throughout their life together - truly remarkable fellow/husband/father supporting and enabling Judy to succeed in her public life career as she has done. - Posted by: AnnaMaria Maria Magnifico (Colleague/friend) on: Jun 08, 2022
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Judy, Nick & Joe, Sending you my heartfelt condolences. I am so sorry for your loss. May the years of beautiful memories comfort you during this difficult time. With Love, Victoria xoxo - Posted by: Victoria Marek (Mundie) (Friend and Neighbor) on: Jun 06, 2022
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Condolences to Judy and family, and to all Ron's first home family in the Wellesley Ontario area. Best memories of Ron, / carry them forward... Sincerely Dennis Helmuth, Rosthern SK - Posted by: Dennis Helmuth (acquaintance) on: Jun 05, 2022
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Judy, Nick and Joe; So sorry to hear about your husband and dad. He will be missed by many. Ron is now another star in the sky and he will shine for all of you. - Posted by: Donna Ansell (Friend) on: Jun 04, 2022
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We send our condolences to Judy and family on the passing of an extraordinary husband and father. Ron was recognized for so many years as the talented, strong and steady partner who shared Judy's unwavering commitment to social and economic justice for all. Together they inspired so many others to do the same for the community. Such contributions made for a better life for everyone. Rest in Peace Ron. Miigwetch and Thank you. - Posted by: Laura Steiman Shofley and Art Shofley (Admirers) on: Jun 04, 2022
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Our deepest condolences, our prayers are with you all. Our Lord has received another Angel in Heaven. Rest In Peace. Rob/Shirley Erstelle - Posted by: Robert/Shirley Erstelle (Friends) on: Jun 04, 2022
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Dear Judy and family, We are so very sad to learn of Ron's passing. During your Mayoral Campaign, I had the honour of talking to him a few times. He was so proud and supportive of you Judy. Ron struck us as being very kind and so genuine. Our heart ache for your pain. Please take care of yourselves. Rick and I wish you inner peace and comfort. Love lasts forever in our hearts. Love Elaine and Rick Stevenson - Posted by: Elaine and Rick Stevenson (Friend) on: Jun 04, 2022
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I am saddened to hear of Ron's sudden passing. Ron was my senior manager (MIS) with Centra Gas. He was dedicated to his staff and a role model of what a Manager should be - I will never forget my time working under his direction as one of the most positive work experiences of my career. My deepest sympathy goes to his family and the community he served. Ron was and always will be remembered as a great man. With great respect, Valerie Badlo - Posted by: Valerie Badlo (Work relationship) on: Jun 04, 2022
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A life so well-lived. Ron contributed so much to our community. Sincere condolences to Judy and family. - Posted by: Gerri Thorsteinson (Friend ) on: Jun 04, 2022
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Our deepest sympathies Judy. May Ron’s memories be a blessing to you and your son. May God grant Ron eternal peace. I recall Ron’s ever ready smile when at your side while attending many functions. He will be missed by all who knew him. Hugs from Vic & Sophia - Posted by: Sophia & Vic de Witt (Friends) on: Jun 04, 2022
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