Leonie Olcen

Born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, mom devoted her life to her family and was a loving and dedicated mother. Raising six children while juggling the demands of work and church was no small task but was a defining part of her life. She made many sacrifices along the way, and providing for her family was one of the ways she showed her love and support to them. Mom’s needs often came second to those of the people she loved.

She worked incredibly hard throughout her life, and her strong work ethic was an important part of who she was. One of her favorite jobs was working at the community bingo halls which led to a role in the Casinos of Winnipeg. She regularly worked the night shift there which allowed her to support the family business during the day. Mom played a major role in building and growing the family businesses (Olcen Food Distributors and Mom’s Pantry Products). She took great pride in the people she worked with, many of whom became like a second family to her.

Her Catholic faith was also an important part of her life. She was a longtime member of St. Emile Parish. Mom was actively involved with the Catholic Women’s League, did many fundraising projects for the church and assisted with other events or duties the church asked of her. She generously gave her time and valued being involved in her church and community. Giving back and being there for others was important to her and something that she enjoyed.

Mom also treasured her friendships. She enjoyed spending time with her longtime group of friends, who gathered regularly in one another’s homes throughout the year to visit, share stories, laugh, and play games. These friendships brought her many years of companionship and wonderful memories.

Travel was a highlight of her life. She had the opportunity to see many parts of the world, travelling with her children. The trips with her sister, Isobel, and brother, David, were especially precious to her. Her travels took her across Canada, from the West Coast to the East Coast, as well as to California, Alaska, Africa, China, Europe, and many other places. These journeys gave her the opportunity to create special memories, and share adventures with those closest to her.

Mom will be lovingly remembered by her sister Isobel, her children; Joan (Danny), Val (Wes), Glenn (Mel), Joyce (Kevin), and Sheila (Keith); 13 grandchildren Philip, Nick, Trevor, Chad, Candice, Shauna, Michelle, Cody, Cailey, Jordan, Rylan, Makenzie and Hudson and 8 great grandchildren Emma, Daniel, Charlotte, Isaac, Ewan, Boden, Anik and Scarlett. She was predeceased by her parents (Emma and Moise), husband, James, daughter, Maureen, siblings (Emile, Maurice, David) and Baby Olcen.

In the later years of her life, mom was affected by dementia. While the disease changed many things, it could never change the life she built, the family she raised, or the impact she had on those who loved her.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A private family service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, donations in mom’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba or a charity of your choice.