Leonard Hayduk

Born in Renwer, Manitoba, on February 27, 1941, Len was the middle child of three born to Anastasia (Nellie) and John Hayduk. He grew up alongside his sister Helen Mary O’Connor (1937–2024) and brother Mervin Albert Hayes (1944– ). The family endured many harsh Manitoba winters on the farm before relocating to Calgary to be closer to John, who was working in Lake Louise. Len spent his formative years in the Ramsey area and attended Western Canada High School.

From a young age, Len developed a passion for adventure and the outdoors. He loved hunting, earned his pilot’s license as a young man, and had a lifelong appreciation for fast and stylish cars. Professionally, he dedicated himself to a demanding career as a concrete finisher and mixer driver, working tirelessly throughout his life.

In his early twenties, Len met Lynne, who was boarding with the Hayduk family. After a year of dating, the couple eloped and married on February 17, 1967. They spent most of their 58-year marriage in Calgary, Alberta, raising their family. During those busy years, Len worked long hours but cherished watching his daughters’ sports games, playing golf, and taking family trips to Hawaii. Weekends often meant camping, fishing, and hiking adventures with his cousin Bill and wife Catherine Slobodian.

Upon retirement, Len and Lynne enjoyed several winters as snowbirds before permanently relocating to Abbotsford to escape the cold. A lifelong learner, Len remained curious in his later years, devouring books and documentaries on other cultures and politics. He was also a devoted and passionate fan of the Toronto Blue Jays.

The family was blessed to share a memorable Christmas together in 2025, creating cherished memories with Len just weeks before his unexpected passing.

Len is lovingly survived by his wife of 58 years, Marjorie-Lynne; their daughters, Crystal (Melvin) and Natasha; and their three grandchildren: Anastasia Marie, Philip Alfred, and Kaden Lyle Leonard. He is also mourned by numerous nieces, nephews, and dear longtime friends in Calgary.

A Celebration of Life will be held later this year, with details to be announced. He will be deeply missed.