The family of Leonard Joseph Portelance, a resident of Pinewood Court and formerly of Thistle Crescent, are sad to report his passing. Leonard was born December 27th 1921 to Dolphice and Adeline (Sweet) Portelance, in Schreiber, Ontario.
He was predeceased by his parents and a granddaughter. He lived in Field, Ontario for 10 years then returned to Schreiber to finish his education and eventually found work with the CPR in 1939.
He worked for the CPR for 42 years on various passenger and freight trains traveling between the cities of Chapleau and Thunder Bay, and retired in 1981.
In 1948 he married the love of his life, Cecile Fournier, and settled down to family life eventually raising 5 sons.
In 1956 Leonard and Cecile bought a home in Green Acres, which became the family home for the next 59 years. In 1970 the family purchased a camp at Silver Lake, which quickly evolved into the center of family activities for the next 20 years.
Upon retiring Len and Cecile became Snow Birds and for the next 30 winters enjoyed the sunshine and warmth of Arizona. In the summer Len enjoyed the comforts of Thunder Bay and on any given day could be seen walking his two buddies Heidi and Gretchen, both miniature schnauzers. Dad and his family traveled extensively in his later years visiting Newfoundland, Alaska, New Zealand, Australia, Hawaii, and the west coast of North America.
He was a lifelong member of the Knights of Columbus and a faithful parishioner of St. Agnes Church for the past 59 years. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Cecile, 5 sons, Brian (Norma), Ron, Larry (Kathy), Paul (Hennah), and Bruce (William), six grandchildren, David (Marissa) Portelance, Craig (Erica) Portelance, Tammy Belle (Gary), Sherry Portelance, Elyott and Caitlyn Portelance, and six great grandchildren, Alex and Sophia Portelance, Robert and Lindsey Belle, and Jacob and Jocelyn Szkaley. Prayers for Leonard will be held Thursday, June 18th 2015 at 7 pm at St. Agnes Church, with the funeral to follow Friday, June 19th 2015 at 12.10 pm at St. Agnes Church. In lieu of flowers donations to the Cancer Society or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.
Leonard Portelance will be remembered in the Blake Funeral Chapel Memorial Grove. Annual dedication service Sunday, June 12, 2016.
