D. Glen Leech

(1936-2023)

“I’ll tell you a little story and it’s a true one too” was a phrase Glen would use before sharing a pearl of wisdom. Glen was logical, practical, and wise, which made him a great problem-solver. He was never accused of being a chatterbox as he preferred to quietly listen and observe the people and conversations around him. His comedic timing was genius and his quick wit was unexpected. He would save his few words for moments that provided the greatest impact.

Glen was born to Philip and Winnifred Leech in 1936 and grew up on the family farm his grandfather homesteaded in 1903. Glen’s love of farming led him to attend and graduate from the School of Agriculture in Saskatoon. The Class of ’62 reunited frequently to reminisce, laugh, and chat about farming. Glen farmed with his dad and brothers, and later, with one of his sons.

In 1965, Glen married Lanna Dash, and they built a home and life together on the original homestead. Together they raised 4 children and 9 dogs; Glen had a special place in his heart for each.

Glen gave back to the community by serving on several boards and committees in Glenavon including the Saskatchewan Wheat Pool board, Credit Union board, and Rink Committee. He volunteered as a school board trustee for 18 years.

Glen farmed until his body would not let him. He met his Parkinson’s diagnosis with courage and grace, and as the disease progressed, he met every stage of decline with acceptance. He died on April 28, 2023.

Glen is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Lanna Leech, and his siblings: Donald Leech (Leah), Robert Leech, and Patricia Morrison (Ken). Left to cheer for Glen’s beloved Toronto Blue Jays are his children: Shelley Winton (Grant), Troy Leech, Kirk Leech (Jeanne), and Shannon Houston (Bill); his grandchildren, Kayleigh Winton (Calum Reid), Kieran Winton, Benjamin Leech (Kathryn Cullen), Samantha Leech, Liam Houston, and Emily Houston; numerous nieces and nephews; as well as the caregivers and residents at Kipling Integrated Health Centre.

At Glen’s request, there will be no funeral service. In celebration of his life, you may wish to go for a leisurely walk and enjoy the birds, kiss your spouse, watch a Blue Jays game, or sneak a corner of your peanut butter toast to a canine companion. If friends so desire, donations in memory of Glen may be made to Glenavon Cemetery Box 87, Glenavon, SK, S0G 1Y0), your local food bank, or to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, www.michaeljfox.org.