Leonard (Leo) John Kowalyshyn

March 4, 2020 12 Condolences Print Obituary Send Flowers

On Tuesday, February 25, 2020 Leonard (Leo) John Kowalyshyn passed away at the age of 54 years with his wife and two daughters by his side.

The saying “Born to live – live to die – treat everyday like it’s your last” was one of Leo’s favorites. He lived life large and to the fullest. He loved spending his free time fishing, camping, cooking over an open fire, having shots of tequila with good friends and spending as much time as he could at his family vacation home in Mexico.

Leo was born on May 16, 1965 in Ituna, Saskatchewan as the only son of Vonda and Leo Kowalyshyn. He left his hometown after high school graduation in 1983 and moved to Edmonton, Alberta where he began his career in the residential housing industry. He worked as a manager & estimator in that industry for over 36 years and met many who would become lifelong friends during his career.

In 1986 Leo met the love of his life and soulmate, Brenda Johnson, whom he would go on to spend the latter 34 years of his life with. They had a whirlwind romance lasting over 10 years and eventually married on June 26, 1996. On March 8, 1999 their beloved daughter Kayla Lee was born and on January 22, 2001 they welcomed their second loving daughter, Trinda Leah.

Leo was predeceased by his parents and is survived by his adoring wife and daughters, his many friends and his extended family; including his sisters Arlene Pelley, Audrey Kowalchuk and their families.

  1. Very saddened to hear of Leonard’s passing. Our Deepest Sympathy to Brenda, Kayla and Trinda and to Audrey and Arlene and families.

  2. Our deepest sympathy to Leo’s family. He had a memorable smile, a big heart and gentle soul. Rest in peace friend.

  3. Deepest sympathy Brenda, Kayla, Trinda, Audrey, Arlene and families. Enjoyed Leonard’s friendship and good times. He will be missed.

  4. With our sympathies in the loss of your husband, father, brother and friend.
    Dennis and Maryka Johnson

  5. Brenda, sincere sympathies on your loss,

  6. Dear Brenda, Trinda, Kayla – So terribly sorry for your loss. Leo was one of a kind, he will be sadly missed and fondly remembered, for his huge smile and booming voice. There will not be a campfire, or chopping block where we don’t think of him. May his incredible love for you bring you strength. We are only a call away. With love- Rick, LeeAnne, Victoria and Lindsay Sadler

  7. We are shocked and saddened to hear about your loss. We are passing on our deepest sympathy and hugs to all of you!

  8. Hi Brenda, Trinda and Kayla,
    I just learned about Leo and wanted to send a note to let you know I am thinking about all of you.

    It was great getting to meet your family through soccer. When I think of Leo, I can’t help but remember some outstanding moves in the parent vs player games & the laughs we had at Provincials in Calgary. I enjoyed talking to Leo and appreciated him a straight shooter. It had been a while but he sent me a note this past December congratulating me a job move with a “Good job buddy” .. it made me smile as I could hear him saying it and knew it was sincere.

    I can’t imagine how hard this is for all of you. If there’s anything that I can do at any point down the road, please let me know.

    Kevin Kobi

  9. Our thoughts are with you Brenda, Kayla and Trinda at this difficult time. No words can express the loss of Leo. He was an amazing father, loving husband and a great friend to many. He touched so many lives and left such wonderful memories. We will miss him dearly!

  10. Brenda, Kayla & Trinda, there are no words I could ever say to express how very sorry I am for you all. We love you all very much. Until we meet again, uno mas Amigo. May you Rest In Peace.

  11. Brenda, Kayla and Trinda

    We are so sorry for your loss and are thinking of you so much at this time. We will miss Leo I’m so many ways… he was a remarkable individual! We feel blessed to have known him. As Leo would say, “we are here for you buddy!” Sending you our love…
    Darren, Cindy, Joel and Kennedy

  12. Dear Brenda, Kayla and Trinda, I never met you but I knew Leo in the mid to late 80’s. I was married to his sister Arlene then.
    Leo definitely had a fervor for living life. I am saddened to hear about your loss and wanted to let you all know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
    I pray for his entire family as well as his sisters. I know how close the three of them were. He was deeply loved and respected.
    God Bless you all,
    Sincerely,
    Dana B. Terry

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