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Len Kelly

Obituary Photo

LEONARD JOSEPH KELLY

November 8, 1950 – March 26, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Len Kelly on Thursday March 26, 2026, with his soulmate and wife of 50 years by his side.  


His memory will be cherished by his wife, Donna; children, Jeremy (Donna), Tara (Frank), and Erin; and grandchildren, Sydney (Marc), Delaney, Ellena, and Isaura; Sisters, Clare (Derm) and Alma: Siblings-in-law, Myron (Janet), Larry (Marjorie), Allan (Sandy) and Arlene; his O’Reilly family, many nieces, nephews and cousins. 


He was predeceased by his parents, Cyril and Mary; sisters, Winnie (Gerry), Gabriella and Madeline and brother Cyril; Mother-in-law Romana and brother-in-law Rev. Fr. Leonard Romanow.


Len was born in Freshwater, Placentia Bay, Newfoundland.  Len’s vivid memory and eloquent words painted a beautiful picture of his birthplace, and he was proud of both his Newfie and Irish heritage.  His life was turned upside down when, at the age of seven his mother passed away and he and his siblings were sent to be raised in orphanages.  Len held a special place in his heart for Skipper and Mother O’Reilly who loved him and took him into their home on holidays, making him feel like one of their many children.  Despite his circumstances, Len never felt sorry for himself.  He was kind to everyone, resilient, courageous and developed the ability to adapt to any situation life threw his way.  After completing grade 11, Len set out for Ontario where he lived with Clare and Derm where Derm took Len under his wing, becoming both a father figure and mentor to him during these formative years.  In 1968 heeding the advice of his cousin John O’Reilly, Len entered the Canadian Armed Forces.  Soon, he was off to HMCS/CFB Cornwallis in Nova Scotia where completed his training in the Military Police. He was then stationed at CFB Portage La Prairie, MB. As with every phase of his life, Len made fast friends, he was the life of the party and looked back on these years fondly.  


In 1973, he was accepted into the R.C.M.P.  This led him to Depot in Regina, SK.  It was the beginning of his impressive career with the force and the start of his family life as a casual blind date would result in him meeting the love of his life, Donna.  Upon graduation, Len was stationed in “D” Division with postings in Shoal Lake, Souris, Jenpeg-Cross Lake, Leaf Rapids, Headingley and Winnipeg.  It shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone that knew him that Len aced his French Language training without any prior French language education.  His ability to learn and love of knowledge came second to none.  Len cherished his time with the force.  He made lifelong connections and enjoyed the challenges and camaraderie his career provided.  Upon retirement, Len’s experience, charisma and wealth of knowledge led him to teach at the Northwest Law Enforcement Academy, followed by his final professional accomplishment becoming the Director of Security at Health Sciences Centre.  He was highly intelligent, logical and calm diving into and excelling at this new role where he was respected immensely by his colleagues.  


Of all his accomplishments, Len was most proud of his family.  Len and Donna were married in 1975.  In addition to a wife, Len also gained Donna’s extended Saskatchewan family.  They loved him instantly and he was welcomed into fun family gatherings, too numerous to count.  Soon after came the children, Jeremy, Tara and Erin. Len and Donna provided them with a loving home and a childhood full of activities, celebrations and road trips.  Having the family that had long eluded him brought Len endless joy. He immersed himself in fatherhood.  Len had a way of reading people and making them feel seen and in true Len fashion, he became the father to each of his children that they needed him to be.  Being the baby of the family, Erin held an extra-special place in his heart.  Len imparted lessons of respect and humility and the importance of family.  Family is what mattered most.  Before Len passed away, he expressed gratitude that he lived long enough to see his children grow into the adults they are and was proud of their choices.  Len had an incredible relationship with his daughter-in-law, Donna and son-in-law, Frank and loved them as if they were his own.  The arrival of Len’s four granddaughters; Sydney, Delaney, Ellena, and Isaura, made his family complete.  He got to spend precious moments with each of them and was their most enthusiastic supporter in all their endeavours.  


With their children grown and out of the house, Len and Donna moved into the Enclave. They built a new community of friends, participating in celebrations where Len would lead in sing-alongs, showcasing yet another of his many talents.  Being back to just the two of them, they grew even closer and enjoyed this time immensely, travelling to Clear Lake, Mexico and their favourite spot Hawaii.     


Len was generous and devoted.  He will be remembered as a man who loved fiercely and laughed often.  His legacy is reflected in his children and grandchildren who were his pride and joy.  He was deeply grateful for the family that surrounded him and his spirit will continue to shape their lives forever.


The family would like to extend their appreciation to the dedicated staff of the Riverview Palliative Care unit for the kindness and compassion they provided Len.   


Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 A.M. on April 24th 2026 at St. Timothy’s Parish, 135 John Forsyth Road. Private interment will take place at the RCMP cemetery at Depot Division in Regina at a later date.


In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Riverview Health Centre Palliative Care Unit 3E or the St. Boniface Hospital Foundation Cardiac Care.

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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Love, Aunt Effie, Keith, Tim, Michael, and Sharon

April 11, 2026 at 1:02 PM

Donna and Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of grieving. Please know that you are not alone in remembering a truly wonderful person that meant so much to so many. Len was always fun to be around at Romanow family functions! Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.🙏

 

Garry and Barb Sheldon

April 8, 2026 at 7:27 PM

Dear Donna, Jeremy, Tara, Erin and families. Our deepest condolences on the passing of Len. We were lucky to have spent some time recently with Len & Donna at our granddaughter's basketball games. He was always so friendly and greeted you with a big smile. May all your wonderful memories help in this very difficult time.

 

 

Danakas Family

April 7, 2026 at 8:19 PM

Dear Donna, Alma, Tara (Frank), Jeremy ( Donna), Erin, Sydney (Marc) Delaney, Ellena and Isaura, please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of Len. We will always remember his fun, joyful presence with great affection. May his memory be eternal. With Love, Peter, Fatima, Maria, and Costa Danakas

Arthur and Fernanda

April 7, 2026 at 9:13 AM

Dear Donna and family just to let you know we read the obituary and tribute what a great and amazing tribute you all did amazing job dedicated to an amazing person!!!

James Smith

April 7, 2026 at 8:05 AM

Len interviewed me and gave me my first job at HSC. I will always remember him and his openness to help but also learn from us as new guards. Widely respected amongst everyone in our department.

 

"The crow flys at midnight". - that's an inside joke for all my fellow HSC guards... If I make it to the service Ill explain it.

 

I wish all who knew him a moment of peace knowing Len had such an amazing and grateful life.

 

Loretta Kaczmarski

April 6, 2026 at 4:01 PM

Dear Donna, Jeremy, Tara, Erin, and extended families...

I express my deepest condolences to all of you on the passing of your husband, dad, father-in-law, and grandpa. Our family (Mom & Dad and my siblings) truly enjoyed visiting with Len at reunions and on occasions when we had the opportunity to see Len, Donna and family. Len's warm and caring personality shone through in his heartfelt, interesting, and entertaining conversations we had together. Our family always looked forward to receiving and reading his annual poetic Christmas letters.

May Len's memory be eternal and his soul rest in peace. ✝ 🙏

Dave Smith

April 6, 2026 at 11:47 AM

I met Len threw the RCMP along with his brother Syl and also being a Newfoundlander we had many greart conversations. Len was a very outgoing person who seemed to attract people to him. He always had time for a chat about any subject. My condolenses to Donna and family.

 

 

Craig Doerksen

April 6, 2026 at 9:49 AM

Had the pleasure of working alongside Len in his time at Health Sciences Centre. He was always focused on ensuring the safest for patients and staff, and holding his team to the highest standards. We spent many hours chatting and hearing his stories - and I was always waiting for the book that he said he would write - as he said that nobody would believe what happened in his career - particularly in healthcare. My condolences to Donna, the children, and the grandkids - he so often and fondly talked about.

Gord & Cheryl Savage

April 6, 2026 at 9:30 AM

Our deepest condolences to Donna and the family. Len was a great person to talk with and exceptional company to be around. We'll cherish the times we spent together, esspecially the fishing trip and morning walksand talks around the neighbourhood, with coffe after. Great memories. May he rest in peace.

Arthur and Fernanda Martins and family

April 6, 2026 at 9:29 AM

Our deepest condolences to the Kelly family and the Raposo family ! We had the privilege to meet Len first through our kids in the same neighbourhood and then he became a family member through our nephew . It was always a pleasure to meet Len at family functions he sure will be missed especially for his speeches to his granddaughters on their birthdays .

Rest in Peace Mr. Kelly you deserve the best, thank you for always being an amazing gentleman !!

Arthur and Fernanda friends of the family .

Wayne Mirrlees

April 5, 2026 at 4:34 PM

My sincere condolences to Donna and family. I have known Len for many year through association with the Force. Although never stationed together we just met and became friends. Len always had time for everyone and with his easy go attitude our conversations lasted and it was like we knew each other for a long time. My your wonderful memories easy your pain during difficult times.

Shane Devlin

April 5, 2026 at 3:45 PM

I was saddened to learn today of the passing of Len - my deepest condolences Donna and family.  I first met Len in early 1972 when I was stationed with the RCMP in Portage la Prairie and Len was at CFB Portage. We hit it off almost immediately. His warm personality and humour made it impossible not to enjoy the company of Len. We would coffee together often when our night or day shifts coordinated with each other. When he joined the RCMP we would see each other on occasions in the HQ building.  I left D Div in 90 and regrettably I never saw Len again however I have such fond memories of my time in the early 70’s spent in Len’s company.

 

Rest in peace my friend.

Danny Vande Vyvere

April 5, 2026 at 11:39 AM

I met Len in French Language Training. Loved his stories about his childhood in Newfoundland. Rest in peace good friend. It was good to know you.

Ed and Shirley Mahoney

April 4, 2026 at 4:59 PM

Len and I were never stationed together but somehow we met some 50 years or so ago somewhere in this vast province and we hit it off. I guess it was because we were both Irish and from the East Coast. Over those past years we would run into each other and it was always like we had never skipped a beat. Len always had a positive attitude, a smile on his a face and a kind word for all. Len was just an all around great guy to have the pleasure to know. Condolences to Donna, Jeremy, Tara, Erin and extended family.

Murray & Adele Wooden

April 4, 2026 at 9:38 AM

Sending Donna our sincere condolences. Len was a funny, caring guy and made people at the Enclave feel good. We will always remember Santa coming by during Christmas and enjoyed his singing. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.

Marlyn Harding

April 4, 2026 at 8:34 AM

My sincere condolences Donna and family.

Len was such a big part of our Enclave family.His booming voice singing Oh Holy night at Christmas .

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal but Love leaves memories no one can steal.

May all your wonderful memories you shared together somehow ease your sorrow at this very sad time.

Hugs Marlyn

Bruce Nicholson and Family

April 4, 2026 at 8:30 AM

It is with great sadness that I read of Len's passing. I am so sorry to you Donna and your family for your loss. Please accept my heartfelt sympathies. Our thoughts are with you during this time.

Doreen Geirnaert

April 4, 2026 at 7:08 AM

My sincere sympathy Donna and all of the families and relatives. Prayers and thoughts are with you all in this difficult time,

Sincerely, Doreen Geirnaert

Mike Menard

April 3, 2026 at 11:54 PM

Len was one of my instructors at NWLEA. He taught our class surveillance techniques. He was a great instructor and held onto what he taught me. After graduation I started employment at HSC Security and shortly after Len and I were reunited once again. It was a joy to work for Len and he was very supportive to helping me reach the next level and get into policing. I left to Depot in late 2007 with 5 days notice and he let me go with short notice and couldn't have been happier for me. Eventually I found myself in a surveillance section and everything I learned from him back in 2002 at the Academy was still with me and made that a very smooth transition which I recognized from the get go. Thank you Len for your support and help over the yearsnand getting me to the next level. Forever grateful. RIP

Ron & Wendy Morier

April 3, 2026 at 1:37 PM

I met and became friends with Len in 2001 when we worked together on contract for the RCMP Recruiting Unit at HQ on Portage Ave. Len and I again were colleagues at the Northwest Law Enforcement Academy. Into full retirement Len and I, Stan, Denis and Jean met for coffee on Tuesdays and would have many laughs but more seriously, solve many world issues. My Bride and I and the Kelly's attended the same Church and Donna and Wendy became friends sharing breakfasts at Smitty's. We stayed in touch when we relocated to Alberta sharing telephone visits. Over the last while it was evident that Len's health was deteriorating but he was always upbeat. Len was a man of strong Faith, he is now pain free and awaiting his loved ones in Heaven. Rest in Peace dear friend. Wendy and I extend our heartfelt condolences to Donna and all the Family

Gary and Cathy French

April 3, 2026 at 11:23 AM

Len & I formed an everlasting friendship after we met in Gonzaga High School in 1967/68. Through the years Len was a constant friend always remembering me on birthdays and at Christmas time. I could always depend on his phone calls with Donna by his side. Our deepest condolences to Donna and the family. He will be missed. Rest in peace dear friend.

Bill and Anne Locke, and Family

April 3, 2026 at 10:26 AM

Donna and Family...Our thoughts and prayers to you all on your great loss. Our friendship goes back many years and we will miss this wonderful man. Sending you peace and love.🙏

Val Oster

April 2, 2026 at 7:59 PM

Thinking about you Donna and all your family during this very sad time. Len will be missed by all who knew him. I remember how well he sang and knew every word to every song. He always was the life of the party. Lots of love to all of you. 🥰

Willa Semotok

April 2, 2026 at 7:26 PM

My condolences to Donna and Family. Len was a very kind man who always had the time to talk and make one feel better ...and laugh ! He made the world a much better place. Rest in Peace ,Len!

 

Lynda Hart

April 2, 2026 at 6:52 PM

My deepest condolences to Donna and Family. Len will be sadly missed by so many.

Such a Wonderful Man.

Rest in Peace Len.

 

Gregg Griffin

April 2, 2026 at 6:10 PM

Donna, my deepest condolences on Len's passing. I am so glad that we reconnected last year and had a few great chats. Watching his photo tribute brought back some very old and pleasant memories of our summers in Freshwater in the '60's. May he rest in peace.

Pat and Brenda French

April 2, 2026 at 3:55 PM

Pat and I had the pleasure to meet Len and Donna when we moved to Winnipeg 4years ago! He was a school friend of Pat's brother, Gary , and we connected with Len through him. We were so fortunate to meet them both for breakfast about once a month and became fast friends immediately! He was an amazing man with a big heart,

a lovely smile and a kind word always ! His deep love for his family was evident in the way he spoke about them. We will miss him deeply and treasure our fond memories with him.

A lovely soul gone much to soon. Rest in peace Len .

Our deepest condolences Donna and the family!

Karen Bajt

April 2, 2026 at 12:19 PM

I had the pleasure of knowing Len through their daughter Tara. Always a smile and a warm hello. Tara is an exceptional friend and was a great co-worker. She is a testament to how important family was to Len and how he cared for everyone. My heart goes out to all the family and I hope they find comfort that he is at peace now.

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