LEONARD DONNELLY PETO

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

LEONARD DONNELLY PETO It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our husband, father, and grandfather, Leonard D. Peto on Saturday, March 24, 2001, at Riverview Health Centre. Leonard is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Pauline; his daughters, Leona (Murray) Brown, Joan (Dr. Fraser) Linklater; his cherished grandchildren, Christopher and Heather Brown and Shannon and Kevin Linklater; his brother Donald (Beth) Peto; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father Walter, his mother Kate, and his sister Margaret Peto. Leonard was born July 19, 1918 in Virden, MB. He graduated from University of Winnipeg (United College) with a BA degree and from University of Manitoba with a B.Ed. He married the love of his life and soul mate Pauline in 1947. His teaching career was interrupted in 1953 when he contracted polio. After a year and a half in the iron lung, he was able to continue to teach from a wheel chair at River Heights Junior High School for 23 years as Head of the English Department. He inspired many students through his great determination, encouragement and his own personal triumphs. In 1983 his lungs deteriorated and he returned to the King George Hospital (Riverview Health Centre) where with the help of a respirator, he continued to do volunteer teaching throughout the community. His accomplishments were aptly recognized in 1998 when he received the Governor Generals Award as a "Caring Canadian" and in 1993 when he received an award from the Independent Living Resource Centre. The United Nations "Year of the Family" selected the Petos as the "Family of the Year" for Manitoba. His familys love was indeed strongly felt by his two daughters, Leona and Joan. Leonard was a member of the Mentors Club, President of the Toastmasters group, honorary member of the Princess Elizabeth Guild, member of the Post Polio Club and worshipped at St. Aidans Anglican Church for over 50 years. He was a member of the board of Riverview Health Centre when the new complex was built. Leonard was known for his fantastic sense of humour, his patience, kindness, even temper and above all his very strong religious beliefs. Our family is grateful for the kindness and care extended to Leonard by all of the staff at Riverview. We would especially like to thank Charles Ponce for his unselfish devotion and help given to Leonard and Pauline throughout the years. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, March 30 at the Riverview Health Centre Worship Centre, 1 Morley Ave. In lieu of flowers, if friends so wish, a tribute may be given to the Riverview Health Centre Foundation, 1 Morley Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3L 2P4. "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." NEIL BARDAL INC. 949-2200

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 28, 2001