Leslie Wilson

It is with great sadness that the family of Leslie Wilson (née Smith) announces her passing on Friday April 8th, 2022 at the age of 75. Leslie enjoyed her younger years in her hometown of Winnipeg, Manitoba. Her family moved to Edmonton, Alberta during her early teens—a period of her life that she enjoyed very much. In 1965, she moved to Saskatoon and began her career at Federated Co-operatives Ltd. While working at FCL, Leslie met her husband, Ronald Wilson. The two were married in 1969 and had two children who were the joys of her life. In addition to her time at FCL, Leslie’s 30 years with Weight Watchers were very dear to her heart. Her passion for healthy eating and active living made her time as a group leader very rewarding, and she found endless joy in motivating group members to reach their goals. Leslie retired from FCL in 2012 and enjoyed retired life with great vivacity; her days were spent swimming, doing yoga, and spending time with her cherished grandchildren.

Leslie’s vibrant demeanor and bold determination made her an inspiration to many. She had a natural affinity for making those around her feel special, particularly through her unmatched gift-giving skills and sincere hospitality. People often spoke about her contagious laughter and the way her beaming smile could brighten a room, even in the sunset of her life. To her loved ones, Leslie was our biggest fan and loudest cheerleader. Her family was most important to her, and she encouraged and protected her inner circle fiercely. Affectionately dubbed the “little blonde tornado,” her boundless energy made her a challenge to keep up with.

Leslie’s radiant spirit drew others in easily, so it is unsurprising that she made friends wherever she went. Lunches, coffee dates, video chats, and swimming laps with friends all brought great happiness to her life. Her oldest and dearest friends were neighbors she had met while living in Saskatoon; after raising their children together and supporting one another unconditionally for 40+ years, these friends became her chosen family. We would like to thank them for their unwavering love and support during this final chapter of Leslie’s life, which included shoveling driveways, sharing meals, and being available whenever they were needed. We are immensely grateful for all that you do.

Leslie was the rock of our family. Though we are grateful she is no longer in pain, her absence has left a void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Leslie is survived by her husband Ronald Wilson, her son Todd Wilson (Dawn Wilson), her daughter Tanya Peters (Chad Graves), and her grandchildren Dakz Wilson, Sophie Peters, Colbie Graves, and Austin Taylor. She is also survived by her sisters, Sharon and Kimberly Smith. Leslie was predeceased by her parents Frank and Jocelyn Smith, as well as by her beloved dogs, Maggie and Rocky.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in Leslie’s memory may be made to Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan (4545 Parliament Avenue #200 Regina, SK S4W 0G3) or a charity of choice. Arrangements entrusted to David Schurr.

We love you with all our hearts, Leslie.

Until we meet again.