With great sadness and heavy hearts, the family announce that Leonard passed away on Sunday, October 17, 2021 at St. Boniface Hospital surrounded by loving family and a very dear friend; he was 69 years old.

 

He is survived by his siblings Lillian Nast (Ed), Pat Payne, and Glen (Brenda); twin sister Diane Rybczuk (Walter); his dear special friend, Pearl Gordon;  step-grandchildren, Christopher, Kali, Abby and Dom; numerous nieces and nephews, Harold Nast (Denise) and family, Karen Kristjanson (John) and family, Corrinne Baker (Vince) and family, Kenny Payne (Lisa), Gary Payne (Beverley) and family, whom he adored so much.  Leonard was especially fond of the newest generation of great-great nieces, Sadie, Kelita and Hadley.  He called them his little munchkins. Also surviving are his cousins, Theresa (Reuben) and family, Violet (Dave) and family, Margaret and family, Pam (Gerry) Pineau, Steve (Candace) Prozyk. He also leaves behind numerous friends. He was predeceased by his parents Bill and Mary Payne; sister Marlene Baker; brother Lloyd Payne; and his very special cousin Steve Prysiazniuk.

 

Leonard spent his entire working career in the welding profession. He was happiest in the outdoors, whether it was camping, boating, fishing or feeding the wildlife. One of his other passions was karaoke. Leonard was the life of the party and usually very mischievous. He was at his best with a drink, a guitar and karaoke system, belting out one off his favourite Elvis or Johnny Cash tunes. He would love to sing to the ladies in his life and family "Hello Darlin', nice to see you...."

 

In Leonard's final weeks of his life, he was able to spend some quality time at his nephew Harold's cottage. He enjoyed the peace and serenity during that time. He even got to feed a fox which thrilled him

 

Thank you to the staff at St. Boniface Hospital for Leonard's care. A special thank-you to nurse Dave, unit E5 for the special care given to Leonard in his final hours.

 

In accordance with Leonard's wishes, cremation has taken place and no formal service will be held.

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Leonard's 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.

 

A celebration of Leonard's life will be held in early summer 2022. Date and location to be determined

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TO THOSE I LOVE AND WHO HAVE LOVED ME

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When I am gone, release me, let me go

I have so many things to see and do,

You mustn't tie yourself to me with tears;

Be happy that we had so many years

I gave you my love, you can only guess

How much you gave me in happiness.

I thank you for all the love you each have shown,

But now it's time I traveled on alone.

So grieve for a while for me if grieve you must;

Then let your grief be comforted by trust,

It's only for a while that we must part,

So bless the memories in your heart.

I won't be far away, for life goes on;

So if you need me, call and I will come.

Though you can't see me or touch me, I'll be near

And if you listen with your heart, you'll hear

All my love around you soft and clear.

And then when you must come this way alone,

I'll greet you with a smile and say

"Welcome home"