Eugene "Gene" Leonard

November 9, 1934 – September 8, 2026 It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of Eugene "Gene" Leonard, who died with dignity, determination, and bravery on September 8, 2026, at Lakeridge Health Oshawa, surrounded by the love of his family and friends. Gene was predeceased by his beloved wife of 32 years, Fay Leonard. The loss of his wife, Fay, left a void in Gene's heart that was never fully healed. Though he continued to live life with purpose and tenacity he carried her memory with him every day. Gene was also predeceased by his daughter Kathryn, and all seven of his siblings. While he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing he lived a full and remarkable life, rich with purpose, adventure, friendship, and love. Gene leaves behind his loving children: Sandra (Bob, deceased), David (Sibel), Paul (Norma), Ruth, and Linda, as well as his stepchildren Leslie (Chris) and Michael. He was a proud grandfather to Kim, Christina, Derek, Michael, Alice (Finn), Jacob, Sean, James (Stephanie), Nick (Alicia), Tyler, Keagan, Riley, Kaitie (Jake), Maggie, Jack, and Sam. His grandchildren brought him endless joy, and he treasured the special relationships he shared with each of them. Gene was a highly skilled tradesman and craftsman whose talents spanned plumbing, gas fitting, HVAC, and electrical. Gene proudly built two homes from the ground up. Throughout his long career, he helped endless amounts of people renovate and build their homes. He took immense pride in honest work, respected those who worked hard, and was always willing to lend a hand, share his knowledge, or teach a valuable skill. His craftsmanship and dedication left a lasting mark on countless homes and families. A lifelong learner, Gene's curiosity never faded. He was an avid reader who enjoyed learning new languages and exploring different cultures. His adventurous spirit led him to earn both his motorcycle licence and pilot's licence, embracing opportunities that many only dream about. Gene loved to travel and especially cherished his journeys to Ireland and Turkey. He appreciated good food, good conversation, and the company of good friends. In his later years, some of his happiest moments were spent enjoying valuable time with friends, playing board games with his son David, sharing stories and laughter, and creating lasting memories with his kids and his best friend Rick. Gene enjoyed swapping recipes and sharing his passion for cooking with his daughter Sandy. Gene and his son Paul’s bond was fueled by quick wit, trade skills, and a mutual appreciation for jokes that were often inappropriate. Gene found joy in the simple moments that brought people together. He had a gift for connecting with others, offering wisdom when needed and humour whenever possible. Gene spent endless moments with Linda, enjoying countless conversations and laughs. Gene was Linda’s very best friend. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart. Whether he was asparagus hunting with Maggie, fishing with Jack, teaching Sam dirty jokes, spending quality time with Alice, Jacob & Sean in Derry, the entire family meant so much to him. Gene will be remembered for his strength, generosity, intelligence, craftsmanship, curiosity, and unwavering love for family. He lived life fully, remained engaged with the world around him, and left an enduring legacy in the lives he touched. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Palliative Supportive Care Team on 4F at Lakeridge Health Oshawa for the exceptional compassion, dignity, and comfort they provided to Gene and his loved ones during his final days. Their kindness, professionalism, and genuine care brought peace to our family during a difficult time, and we will always be grateful for the support they extended to each of us. You are invited to celebrate Gene's life with his family and friends at the Brooklin Pub on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Memories and tributes will be shared at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gene's memory may be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada. https://www.bloodcancers.ca/get-involved/ways-give-back Forever loved, deeply missed, and fondly remembered.