The family of LeRoy James sadly announces his passing on December 11, 2024, at the age of 72 years, after a lengthy and brave struggle with Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (COPD). Despite his failing health, he remained fiercely independent, and in keeping with his wishes, was able to remain in his home in Goodsoil, Saskatchewan until the time of his death.

LeRoy was born in Killam, Alberta and raised primarily in Edmonton. His father Thomas died in 1971 at age 51 and his mother Catherine died in 1981 at the age of 57. The family of ten children drew support from each other after the death of their parents and this strong connectedness amongst the siblings continues to prevail to this date.

LeRoy is survived by his sons Tommy Joe and Brian, siblings Darlene (John), Bev (Jim), Keith (Gail), Don (Marilyn), Donna, Doug (Christina), Darrel (Roxanne, Rosie), his sister-in-law Leona, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers Brian and Garry, his brother-in-law Ken Blanchette, and his nephew Robbie Crundwell.

LeRoy moved to Sherwood Park in 1973 and was employed in the sheet metal industry as the erector of metal buildings for an extended period. In 1979, LeRoy and his wife, Mary purchased a lake lot at Lac des Isles in partnership with Danny and Marlene Walchuk. LeRoy and Danny proceeded to build a cabin from scratch. Great times with family and friends were held there and many children learned to ski with Leroy at the helm of the boat. Later, the adults often partied around the bonfire and enjoyed each other’s company more and more as the night went on (or maybe not, depending upon who was there).

LeRoy’s strong love of the outdoors, the serenity of nature, hunting, fishing, and the lake life, drew him towards choosing the Goodsoil area as his permanent home. Eventually, he and his partner, Brenda owned and operated Big Island Cove Resort and LeRoy became an outfitter. He and Tom spent a month together every year guiding the hunters for many years and a very close and special father/son bond evolved and remained to the end.

LeRoy was a devoted son, father, brother, uncle and friend. His work ethic was second to none; he took pride in his work and was relentless in his quest to do work well. He expected no less of those that worked with him, as his family and colleagues will attest to.

He was a “Jack of all Trades” and was the “go to person” for family and friends for building or fixing almost anything from building decks, repairing quads and equipment, to fixing major appliances. He freely shared his expertise and skills with those needing help and his family gratefully carries these teachings forward for future generations. In terms of leisure, LeRoy was an avid sports fan and especially enjoyed hockey and curling. More recently, he also became a Canadian tennis fan.

On a more personal basis, LeRoy was honest, genuine, and never “put on airs” for anyone. He was gifted with a great sense of humor and a “quick wit”; his famous one-liners, or invented phrases, continue to live in the minds of people he knew. He was kind and he was known to quietly extend a helping hand to people less fortunate than him. For example, when he was just 21, he took a special needs fellow, Mike, under his wing and a special friendship evolved. Finally, despite his somewhat gruff exterior, inside he was a gentle, loving person who cared deeply for his family and close friends. He will be sorely missed.

A Celebration of LeRoy’s Life will be held in the Edmonton area in the spring or summer.

Condolences To The Family Can Be Sent To www.jethomasfuneralhome.com

• Date : 2024-12-11
• Location : Goodsoil, Sask.