Clarence Junior Lehr

With much sadness, we announce that Clarence Junior Lehr of Chilliwack, BC passed away on September 29, 2026, at the age of 85. He was born on February 18, 1941, in Port Blandford, Newfoundland. He grew up in Gander, where hockey became his lifelong passion and he became an avid fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs. He was also involved in Air Cadets while attending Gander Academy where he graduated in 1959.

Clarence moved to Ottawa in 1960 where he met his future wife, Shirley. They were married in 1964. They celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary on July 18 this year.

Clarence was an Ottawa Police Officer for 12 years, owned and operated a Dairy Queen for 6 years, and worked for the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario for 18 years.

His love for hockey never waned; he spent years playing, coaching, and refereeing. When he wasn't at the rink, he was passionate about fishing—often spending hours tying his own flies—and he always enjoyed a game of golf.

Clarence was a caring, loving, kind person who was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He had a take charge personality with a sense of humour which everyone enjoyed even into his final days.

Clarence and Shirley spent many happy times camping with their young family and going on road trips to Newfoundland and British Columbia to visit family and friends. Many memorable occasions were spent with Shirley’s mom and dad in Ottawa, Timmins, Brantford, and Paris, Ontario. Visits from Clarence’s mom and dad, his sister and brother, and their families were also enjoyed over the years.

In retirement, Clarence and Shirley moved to Agassiz, BC, to be closer to their children. Over the years, they enjoyed family get-togethers, special occasions, school activities, sports, graduations, and Ashley and Chloe’s wedding, alongside many trips to Nelson to visit Duane, Marnie, and family. Their adventures also included cruises to Panama, Europe, the Caribbean, and a family cruise to Alaska to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, as well as three winters spent in Mesa, Arizona.

Clarence will be sadly missed by his family and friends. We will all remember his smile and good-natured personality. He will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Clarence is survived by his loving wife Shirley; his son Craig (Sylvie) Lehr, daughter Stephanie Lehr (Norm Hayes), daughter Stacey (Claude) Toupin, and son Duane (Marnie) Lehr; cherished by his grandchildren Ashley (Chloe) Hay, Brayden Lehr (Courtney Orza), Matthew Lehr, Nadine Lehr, and Olivia Lehr; his great grandson Alder Hay; and his sister Rowena (Bryan) Goodman and family.

Clarence was predeceased by his father Jacob, his mother Jennie, and his brother Bill.

The family would like to thank the nursing staff on 5N at Chilliwack General Hospital for the care and compassion they showed Clarence in his final days.

A family service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in honour of Clarence to the Alzheimer Society or Chilliwack General Hospital.