Leo Walter Sorsa

Leo passed away peacefully on January 2, 2016 at the age of 88 at the Rockyview Hospital. He was a resident at the Southwood Care Centre in Calgary. He is lovingly remembered by his sisters Rose Ashton and Miriam Heintzman, daughters Marie Dayman (husband Rick) and Fran Mills (husband Gary Lucas), grandchildren Allison Thompson (husband Wayne), Christie Murnaghan (husband Adam, great-grandchildren Noah and Maya), Katie Mills, Riley Mills (wife Kailee) and Donna Elder (husband Craig, great-grandchildren Sandra and Sam). Leo was predeceased by his wife Eileen Sorsa (nee Corcoran) parents Lydia and Enoch Sorsa and his siblings Bill Pavala and Aino Orich.

Born in Canmore Alberta, Leo worked hard as a coal miner and was a star defenceman for the Edmonton Canadians (Junior Hockey team). At age 18 he was signed by the Chicago Blackhawks but was denied his NHL dream when a mistake on the operating table rendered him paralyzed for 2 years. He moved to Calgary in 1956 with his wife and two daughters. Working in various sales positions Leo became salesman of the year with Grip Clinch International. One of his greatest achievements was completing some Life Saving swimming awards in his early 40's. He went on to coach the Killarney competitive swim team and officiated as "Starter" at many of the local and provincial swim meets. Leo (affectionately known as GG) felt blessed to have great-grandchildren. They brought a special meaning and brightness to his life. It's ironic that he would sing "You Are My Sunshine" to all the kids when it was "he" who was the sunshine in our lives. No matter what the circumstances, he always put his family's needs before his own. Above all, family was his first priority. Leo's gentle spirit and jovial laugh will be remembered by all.

A Memorial Service will be held at Holy Name Parish, (2223 34 Street SW) on Wednesday, January 13, 2016 at 11:00 a.m.

Messages of remembrance may be left for the family at www.southcalgaryfuneralcentre.ca