Waldner, Leonard

In Loving Memory of Leonard Waldner

October 31, 1956 – October 13, 2025

Leonard Waldner, 68, of Souris, Manitoba, passed away peacefully with family by his side on October 13, 2025.

Leonard was born on October 31, 1956, in Portage la Prairie, and was raised in a Hutterite colony. The second youngest of ten children, he was spirited and adventurous, eventually leaving the colony to explore the outside world.

In 1978, Leonard married Margaret (née Stahl), and they built a life together, raising three children—Julie, James, and Erin—and settling in Souris, Manitoba.

Despite having only a Grade 6 education, Leonard carved out a full and meaningful life, grounded in hard work, determination, and perseverance. He held many roles over the years including farmhand, manager of a regional waste collection facility, and the one he enjoyed most, a truck driver in the oil fields. Leonard obtained a Class 1 driver’s license and was proud to call himself a professional truck driver.

A devoted Boston Bruins fan, Leonard’s passion for the team began in childhood, when he would ride his bike for miles to watch games on a black-and-white TV. One of his most exciting moments was traveling to Boston with his son James to see the Bruins play live. The team’s 2011 Stanley Cup win brought him immense joy.

In his younger years, Leonard was an active member in the community.  He was often seen with a VHS recorder in hand, volunteering his time filming local events for Access 12, the community television channel, ensuring special moments were preserved for others to enjoy. Leonard also served as the “music man” for the Southwest Cougars, managing game music with cassette tapes.  Leonard continued to volunteer where he could and for many years he ensured the grass was mowed at the local Baptist church.

Leonard’s belief in God and connection to the church was a steady and sincere part of his life. Though not always vocal, he tried to live by his values, finding strength and guidance in his relationship with God.

A passionate lover of music, Leonard brought joy to countless gatherings with his guitar and singing. Many evenings were spent around a campfire with Leonard playing music, surrounded by family and friends.

Leonard found joy in nearly any outdoor activity: fishing, hunting, camping, playing horseshoes, and simply being outside.  Leonard and Margaret had a seasonal campsite at Miller’s campground near Portage where they spent their summers.  Leonard golfed regularly and looked forward to the annual golf tournament he participated in with his son, James.  Tending to his vegetable garden and chopping wood were activities that brought him peace.

One of Leonard’s most cherished traditions began in 1988: the annual May long weekend camping and fishing trip to Dauphin. This trip became a beloved family event, one that he looked forward to each year and spent weeks preparing for.  He wanted to share this experience and invited many others to join him over the years. It was a time of laughter, stories, and connection—exactly what Leonard valued most.

Leonard is lovingly remembered by his wife, Margaret Waldner (née Stahl), and their children:

• Julie Wachal, mother to Zachary, Marcus, and Emily
• James Waldner, father to Evan, Carter, and Emma
• Erin Eissner, mother to Farah

Leonard’s seven grandchildren were the pride of his life. He shared a unique bond with each of them, and their presence brought him endless joy and purpose.

His passionate approach to his interests and to his relationships with others left a lasting imprint on all who knew him.  Leonard will be remembered for his fiery spirit, fierce independence, strong opinions, and the unwavering love he had for his family and friends. Whether behind the wheel of a truck, watching a Bruins game, or telling stories at the kitchen table, he lived with pride, humour, and heart.

Rest peacefully, Leonard. You were deeply loved, and your memory lives on in all of us.

As per his wishes, Leonard was cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held at Kowalchuk’s Funeral Chapel in Souris, Manitoba, on Monday, October 20 at 11:00 a.m., with luncheon to follow.

In memory of Leonard, donations may be made to:

Souris Palliative Care c/o Prairie Mountain Health Box 10, Souris, Manitoba R0K 2C0.