Gwendolyn Elizabeth Leslie (Williams)

Passed away at her residence, the home of her cherished daughter and son-in-law, Wendy and Mitchell in Blair, Cambridge, May 20, 2021, in her 103rd year. Eternal wife of Peter Ralli Leslie (1986) whom she married seventy years ago on April 7, 1951. Beloved mother of Wendy (Mitchell), Trevor (Yvonne); predeceased by Joseph (1952), Pamela (1995), Pamela’s spouse Vincent (2000). Loved and admired Nana of Joseph (Christine), Michael (Dawn), Anthony, Johnny (1980) Taranto, Matthew, Philip Wawzonek, Peter (Natasha) Woznik, Paige, Hayden Leslie. Dearly loved Great Nana of Bianca and Maria Matos Taranto and Chloe Woznik.

Born in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, the eldest daughter of Matthew and Margaret Williams. Gwen was the last surviving sibling in her family. Predeceased by beloved brothers, Daniel (2014), Frank (2020), James (1944), sisters Beverly (2006), Evelyn (2012), stepbrothers, John (1979), Sydney (1971), stepsister Effie Briggs (1980). Predeceased by dear cousin Frank McEachern (2019). Survived by her sister-in-law Frances Williams of San Lorenzo, California. Gwen was deeply proud of her Nova Scotia heritage. Following the death of her father as a young woman, she became the breadwinner for her family. She ensured younger siblings were raised with educational advantages. Ever the adventurer, she moved to Hamilton ON, seeking a new life. There, she met and married the love of her life, Peter. They lived ‘on the mountain’ in Hamilton. Waterloo became home in 1956. These were happy years, where Gwen met her sister by love, Norma Kirby and other wonderful friends, who formed a couple’s bridge club.

Gwen worked as a banker, a bookkeeper part-time, and in retirement enjoyed working at Young’s Jewellers. She and Peter cared for her dear mother Margaret (1990-age 104.5) all their married lives.

Gwen enjoyed travelling. She and Peter had memorable trips to the U.S., Europe, England, Wales & the Canary Islands. Later, Gwen travelled to Alaska and numerous other U.S. states, to Vancouver, Calgary, Quebec City, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Bermuda, Croatia, Australia, New Zealand.

Gwen loved family and friends deeply. She was very social, generous, thoughtful, kind, wise & non-judgemental. She had a ready smile and a positive outlook despite life’s challenges. Through example Gwen imparted life lessons, her religious faith. As a breast cancer survivor, she encouraged others who faced the same journey.

Gwen and Peter were founding members of St. Agnes parish, Waterloo, her home parish where she was the oldest parishioner. She also attended St. Clements parish in Preston, Cambridge with Wendy’s family for 27 years. Gwen was a 72-year member of the Catholic Woman’s League, a supporter of Right to Life, Canadian Food for Children, Breithaupt Seniors Centre.

Mom, you have fought the good fight, you have finished the course, you have kept the faith. May God hold you in the palm of his hand, reunite you with Dad, beloved family, and friends in Heaven. Until we meet again, we will carry you in our hearts every day.

Sincere appreciation to the palliative care team of Dr. Sandor, Michelle Hicks, Benedetta, the LHIN team of nurse practitioner Donna Gill and Janice Duffy, PSW Jackie and Westmount Pharmacy. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Right of Life K-W Area or St. Agnes Church.

A private family service will be held but will be viewable via livestream on Monday, May 31 at 10:30 am by visiting this link: https://funeraweb.tv/diffusions/3a77233f-48be-48b3-83f5-86965c353602