John Leslie Wilson

JOHN LESLIE WILSON was born August 12th, 1926, on the family farm to Margaret and John Wilson, third in a family of five. Raised during the 30s, Les learned the value of hard work, cooperation and frugality.

Les married Irma Lunney in 1956 and they raised a family of three. Both Les and Irma were active community members. Les served a director of St. Andrew’s College, and was dedicated to the church. Throughout his life, Les was active in community projects.

Les farmed cooperatively with his three brothers and was always eager to explore innovations and try new things. He took pride in the accomplishments of his sons and daughter but when it became obvious that none were going to take his place in “Wilsonville,” he was pleased to sell his portion of the farm to nephews Stephen and Ian upon retiring.

Les was a passionate man who loved familiar things like family and farming but also enjoyed challenges, especially meeting new people and learning new things. He and Irma enjoyed several trips to visit family and friends. A highlight of their lives was an extensive visit to New Zealand and Australia. It was with reluctance that he moved to Assiniboia in 1996, although he soon learned to love the new community for it offered a great combination of familiar people from the McCord district and new people with new stories to learn.

Les enjoyed volunteer work in Assiniboia, becoming active in Club 55 and the museum. He grew an extensive garden, and thoroughly enjoyed sharing its bounty. Les loved reading and discussing the ideas he found. As Les’s health challenges grew, another move became necessary and Les and Irma moved into the Prairie Villa in 2010. Unfortunately Les’s health forced another move to the Long Term Care Facility at Assiniboia Hospital where he received wonderful care and gained a new nickname ‘Sharky’ - taken from a picture of him playing pool in better years.

Les was predeceased by his parents, John and Margaret; his sister Janet Mather and brother-in-law Harry; his brothers Harold and Jim and his sisters-in-law, Elsie Wilson and Doris Sparks; and his grandson Aaron. He is survived by his wife Irma, his sons: Earl (Laura), Phil and daughter Helen (Murray); his grandchildren: Rebecca (Brent), Cameron, Travis, Drew and Andrea, and his great-granddaughter Callie. He also leaves his brother Bill, and in-laws Audrey, Edith, Russ, Edna, Milt and Ruth, and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Service was held Monday, January 2nd, 2012, at 2:00 PM, in the McCord United Church, McCord, SK. Reverend Mathias Ross officiated and the tribute was given by his brother, Bill. The organist, Ruth Taylor led congregational hymns: “In the Garden”, “Just a Closer Walk with Thee”, and “How Great Thou Art”. Pallbearers were nephews: Don Wilson, David Wilson, Gordon Wilson, Stephen Wilson, Ian Wilson, and Stuart Wilson. Interment followed in the McCord Cemetery. Donations in Memory of Les can be made to the McCord United Church. Arrangements entrusted to Ross Funeral Service, Assiniboia, SK. An online book of condolences may be signed at www.rossfuneralservice.com