It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Douglas “Wayne“Leslie, a beloved resident of Grande Prairie, AB, who left us on Monday, September 23, 2024, at the age of 82, surrounded by love.

Born in Dunnville, ON, Wayne was the eldest of twelve children to Cliff and Violet Leslie. He embraced his role as a devoted big brother, ensuring that his family—near or far—felt loved and never forgotten.

At the age of 16, Wayne embarked on a remarkable journey by train from Long Beach, ON, to Grande Prairie in search of opportunity. It was here that he met the love of his life, Ann Kozenko, while she was working at the local Park Hotel café. Their love blossomed, leading to their marriage in 1962, followed by a honeymoon trip to Niagara Falls, ON for Wayne to introduce his bride to his family. Together, they welcomed Wayne’s role as a devoted father to Ann’s son, Danny, and soon after, joyfully welcomed their own children: Donna, Douglas, and Trevor.

Wayne’s early years were filled with hard work and determination. He began his career driving for Wonder Bread Co, Miller’s Taxi and Pepsi Co., and in 1969, proudly earned his gas fitter’s certificate. In 1976, they moved the whole family briefly to Lowbanks, ON, creating many cherished memories before returning to Grande Prairie. It was during this time that Wayne founded his own business, Erie Gas Fitting, and later worked for Canadian Propane, ICG, and Westburne until his retirement.

Wayne’s retirement years were filled with travel to and from their holiday trailer located at Lake Erie, ON, and later they embraced life in Port Colborne, ON, where they enjoyed six wonderful years before returning to Grande Prairie.

Wayne’s life was enriched by the love of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy. He treasured birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays spent with family. A devoted fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Blue Jays, Wayne could often be found cheering for his teams, sharing his passion with the kids, or relaxing at home with Ann and his beloved puppies by his side.

Wayne’s kindness, warmth, and unwavering love will forever be remembered. He leaves behind a legacy of family, laughter, and cherished memories. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

He will be sadly missed by his beloved wife, Ann Leslie; children: Danny (Sandy) Leslie, Donna (Reg) Harris, Doug (Brenda) Leslie, and Trevor (Trisha) Leslie; grandchildren: Bobbie-Jo (Gavin) McLeod, Nicole (Steve) Therrien, Dustin (Jill) Leslie, Cody Leslie, Todd (Mel) Doll, Elizabeth Harris, Tyler (Maddy) Harris, Brittany (Atam) Basra, Dylan (Carlee) Leslie, Narissa (Marc) Leslie, and Daniel St. Germain; great-grandchildren: Calleigh, Corbin, Rylee, Colton, Carson, Jackson, Jacob, Olivia, Brecken, Cruze, Colson, and Scarlett: as well as six sisters, three brothers and all their families. and his very special life-long friend Dennis Haugli.

Wayne was predeceased by his father Clifford Leslie; mother Violet Leslie; and brothers Dave Leslie and Charles Leslie.

A Celebration of Wayne's life will be held on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Oliver’s Funeral Home (10005 - 107 Ave).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Parkinson's Association of Alberta in Wayne’s memory (https://parkinsonassociation.ca/).