Leslie James Taylor

It is with broken hearts, the family of Leslie James Taylor announce his passing on December 7, 2024. After a short illness, Les peacefully passed away at the Prince George Rotary Hospice House with his loving wife, Darlene, by his side.

Les, the eldest son of five children born to Rita and Jim Taylor was born in Brandon, Manitoba. The family moved to Rivers where he spent his early and teen years. Les went to work for the CNR before finishing high school but returned to graduate and meet his future wife Darlene. High school sweethearts forever! Les and Darlene were married in Rivers in 1957. Les was transferred to Winnipeg where the couple made their first home. Les’ and Darlene’s sons, Kevin and Jeffrey, were born there. Les got his pilot’s license in Winnipeg in 1960.

The Taylors moved to Prince George, BC in 1967 where the BC Rail was expanding north. It was a good move! The boys were four and six when they left Winnipeg. They had learned to ski behind a snowmobile in Winnipeg so were so excited to see two ski hills within an hour’s drive from their home. The family all took up downhill skiing and never missed a ski weekend…no matter how cold.

Les and Darlene bought property on Cranbrook Hill and the two of them built their first home the next spring between working and exploring the country around PG.

Les was a kind, generous, hardworking man who dearly loved his family. He was as proud of his grandsons, Jeremy and Nick, as he was of his sons, Kev and Jeff. Les was an avid reader and had an extensive library, which included collections on airplanes and building better homes in cold climates. The latter collection ensured the home Les built in 1981 was double-walled, super insulated, and passive solar assisted!

Les was a very talented guy who passed those talents on to his sons. The boys helped him build boats, cabins at Ness and Cluculz Lakes. They built two more houses, large shops, a patio boat, and a two place high wing plane. Les and his sons also built a hovercraft. It was great skimming up the river over gravel and sand bars or zooming around Cluculz Lake. Les could sew too. Kevin, Jeff, and Nick all had lessons on the upholstering machines. Camping gear and ski straps were made, as well as the many fabulous costumes made by Nick. A highlight of Les’ last year was to go flying with Kevin. That may have been his best day of 2024!

We hope there are Pickerel in the lake and the butter tarts are as good as the ones Amber and Allyson made.

Les was predeceased by his parents, Rita and Jim Taylor, brothers Harvey and Ted, daughter-in-law Allyson, and grandson Jeremy. He is survived by his loving wife Darlene, sons Kevin (Amber), Jeffrey (Janet), grandson Nick (Erica), brother Bob (Corrine and son Chris) and sister Janice (Joe and son James and daughter Jennifer).

Les will be missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He and Darlene had 67 wonderful years together and he will be so missed.

Les requested there be no service.

The family would like to thank Dr. Fredeen, Dr. Cosio and their team for the excellent care throughout the years. Special thanks to Dr. Cosio for the kindness, the care, and the many home visits. We were truly blessed with such excellent care. Thank you to the Hospice House. We appreciate you all.