It is with much sorrow that we announce the passing of Leonard James Friesen on June 29, 2026. With his wife by his side, Leonard succumbed to his short but courageous fight with cancer.

Leonard leaves behind his wife, Karen, his daughters, Michelline, Sandy, Shelley (Cliff) and Sharon (David). He also leaves behind his siblings Linda, Judy, Marilyn, Dorothy (Craig), Ken (Nicole), Mark (Sharon), Bob (Heather), as well as his grandchildren and many nephews and nieces. Leonard was predeceased by his parents, Margaret and Bill Friesen, his brother Terry Friesen, and his daughter Sheri Breland.

Born on February 22,1947 in Winkler, Leonard transitioned to Winnipeg at a young age. He began working at an early age, taking on several jobs before finding his place at Aimes Auto Parts where he retired after 28 years of service. Working at Aimes was more than just a job to Leonard; it was like being with family and they remained close to the end. Perhaps, this is where Leonard’s passion for classic cars began, eventually leading to his owning and rebuilding a 1938 Ford. He will be deeply missed by his neighbor Larry, who like a brother, travelled with Leonard to many car shows with his ’38 Ford.

Those who knew Leonard, knew that he was a kind and compassionate man who was always there to lend a helping hand. For family, friends, and neighbors, Leonard would fix, move, or assist whenever asked, most often with short notice. Leonard would also be known as a jokester, loving to tease Karen’s girls who soon learned how to tease him right back. Leonard will be greatly missed by all who knew him, but especially by the love of his life, his wife Karen.

Many thanks to Dr. Molzan and Kelly from Cancer Care Manitoba as well as Dr. Kahn and staff at the Selkirk Regional Hospital, who treated Leonard with Kindness and dignity. A private family ceremony will be held in tribute to Leonard. All others are encouraged to leave condolences to the family on his obituary page and should anyone wish to make a donation on his behalf, please make them to Cancer Care Manitoba.