Obituaries

I first met Lesley when she was teaching an introductory French course at the University of Winnipeg, in the then Department of French where I was a new hire. Over the years, I came to know her keen intellect, wry sense of humour, and single-minded commitment to all that she did. Lesley was much admired and appreciated by students and colleagues at the Collegiate, and in the wider community. Once in a while, our paths would cross at Portage Avenue and Colony Street as we headed towards the University in the morning. Often, with a twinkle in her eye, she would comment on my wardrobe choice for that day. Apparently, I was not a shabby dresser. I send my sincere condolences to Lewis and family.

I have been a friend and colleague of Lesley's for 39 years. Lesley was a gifted teacher, supportive mentor and excellent administrator at the University of Winnipeg Collegiate. She was a staunch supporter of her vision of the UW Collegiate - of which she was a graduate, as were her parents before her - a vision I still steward to this day. Her brilliant intellect, curiosity, wit and kindness will not be forgotten. I always looked forward to her Yule cards, and have continued to be lifted by our email volleys about this world. She faced chronic illness with grit, humour and grace. May her memory be a blessing to us all. Yet the world is poorer without her in it. Love you forever,Les.

Ah Lesley. I am so sorry to hear about her death. She was an inspiration to a number of students with whom I crossed paths. One in particular, was a non-attender in grade 12. I was a university professor/invited guest of this student to one of Lesley's classes. The topic: women's roles in society. Without blinking an eye, Lesley welcomed the student (and me) as if nothing was untoward. It was a fine, if somewhat awkward session, but both Lesley and the student were happy at the end of it. To my knowledge, that student crossed the non-attendance bridge and attended from then on. Such was the welcoming, non-judgemental approach of Lesley - an excellent teacher. She was interested in inclusion and she lived it out loud. I loved her energy and spark and directly engaging approach. I always looked forward to seeing her. My condolences to the family. Sandi Kirby

This is very sad news. Lesley was a fine person — a talented teacher and citizen of the Collegiate and the University of Winnipeg. Widely respected by everyone, she was an inspiration and a delight to work with. My deepest sympathy to her family.

This is Wanda, we connected several times for coffee with Leslie and Lou and so sorry to hear of your loss. Leslie enjoyed good conversation and it was always a great connection! Please accept our sincere condolences. Wayne and Wanda

I attended the U of W Collegiate during the late-80's and she was the vice-principal. When I first entered, Grade 11, I had an obnoxious attitude and said a lot of irreverent things in public and she saw me to do about it at times. At that time, I was a student who went from school to school and I got a lot of singling out from my peers. I arrived at U of W Collegiate with the attitude 'nobody respects me so what do I have to lose?' Over time, she was able to show me that I can do better and be better. Even after I graduated from The Collegiate, I attended the University. We frequently crossed paths and she was happy to see me. When I graduated from the University with my BA, I gave her a card thanking her for showing me the way and believing in me.

With deepest sympathy to Lew and her family. It was an absolute joy being Lesley’s friend. Her sparkle, wonderful laugh, extraordinary intelligence and talents ; keen wit and political analysis resulted in the most intriguing conversations. I will miss her dearly. With heartfelt sadness. Susan A. Thompson