Len passed away peacefully on May 18 at Douglas Memorial Hospital with family by his side.

For 87 years, Len lived a full and meaningful life as a son, brother, husband, Dad, Father-in-law, Grampa, Poppy, Uncle and friend to many. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Lenny grew up in Port Colborne where he loved playing in the woods, and being involved with the local baseball and hockey teams. Len served the community as a police officer starting with Bertie Township, then Fort Erie and eventually Niagara Region (HQ communications and Ft. Erie Detachment) and practiced the principles of diversion long before it was formally recognized — possibly because he disliked writing tickets, but more likely because of his genuine belief in giving people second chances. He was a fan of practical jokes, and many who knew him experienced his good-natured mischief firsthand.

Len loved all animals, especially dogs and always kept a large stash of treats nearby. His best day included spending the morning on the phone checking in on family and friends, afternoon drives with a stop to feed the birds at Waterfront Park (which the boaters and sun bathers must have loved), and story telling with friends over coffee. He loved gardening, garage sales, and playing Hearts online. Perfection would be achieved if the day ended with a vodka lemonade and filet o fish sandwich. Oh, and watching Judge Judy on the television. Always Judge Judy.

Len had a gift for connecting with people.He also loved to sing… LOUDLY. Tina Turner was a favourite, though he often made up his own lyrics and didn’t always stay in tune. But that never stopped him — he sang with joy and confidence. This is the legacy of Len: connect deeply with family and friends, believe in second chances, laugh often, welcome strangers, and sing because who cares if anyone is listening.

Thank you to all who have befriended, supported, and visited him over these many years. As per Len’s wishes, his ashes will be buried alongside his parents in a private family gathering at Oakwood Cemetery in Wainfleet. If you would like to honour his memory, donations can be made in his name to the Fort Erie SPCA.