LESLIE ESMOND DOOKERAN

With heavy hearts, we announce that Les passed away on March 26th at St. Boniface Hospital at the age of 86 years.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Irene (née Baptiste); children Randy (aka Sanjiv), Neesha Dookeran-Gibson (Paul Gibson) and Sheerene; grandchildren Eric, Sarina and Reid Gibson; sisters Linda Ramkalawan (Carl), Grace Ramsingh (Berry); and brothers Ivan and Eddie. He was pre-deceased by his mother Myrtle (née Kokaram), father Norman, and sisters Elvira and Dorinda (aka Judy).

Leslie immigrated to Winnipeg from Trinidad & Tobago in 1962, following and promptly marrying his true love, Irene. This was the beginning of a bold adventure that spanned 60 years together. Les and Irene benefitted from the loving support of the United Church community and many close friends. They settled in St. Vital where they raised their family. A dedicated husband, Les would bring Irene breakfast in bed (tea and toast, with the newspaper) every single morning. Les was also a dedicated father, selflessly taking his children to a broad array of activities including early-morning hockey practices, figure skating, dancing and piano lessons.

Les initially acquired his Auto Mechanic certification from Red River College and worked mostly on classic Fords and Chevy’s. He subsequently had a long career as a Motor Vehicle Standards Officer for the Province of Manitoba. This job, filled with travel and camaraderie, brought him great joy. He often reminisced about the many wonderful people he worked with and met along the way, and the myriad of places he visited throughout Manitoba. One of Les’ proudest moments was becoming a Canadian Citizen in 1992.

Les was an enthusiastic fisherman and a Master Angler. He fondly recalled many great times fishing with his buddies. He was an enthusiastic participant in All Fours, spending many hours with family and friends laughing and playing into the wee hours of the morning.  He was also a serious audiophile, amassing a huge vinyl record collection and an insane audio system that would literally shake the house. He loved "his" music including Elvis, Jim Reeves, Charlie Pride and Calypso music from Trinidad.  Les was also a big Winnipeg Jets and “True Blue” Winnipeg Blue Bombers fan – cheering loudly for each goal and touchdown throughout his life. He was also an avid cook, mainly specializing in Trinidadian favourites including curried goat, lamb and concocting his home-made pepper sauce. 

Les dearly loved his grandchildren (Eric, Sarina and Reid) and was very fortunate to have a prominent role in their lives growing up. He definitely had that magical ‘Grandpa gene’ and the kids loved him dearly right back … he was very proud of them all. He also loved and enjoyed spoiling the dogs they had throughout the years ... most recently their beloved Toby, a loyal Yorkie-Spaniel who we recently had to say goodbye to.

Les was a kind man with a very soft heart. His family and many friends will fondly recall his sense of humour and infectious laugh. He will be dearly missed by all.

Les’ family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by watching the photo-biography above. Please, also consider sharing your own photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.

In Accordance with Les’ wishes, cremation has taken place and no formal service will be held.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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