Passed away peacefully on October 21, 2020 at Juravinski Hospital in his 85th year. Beloved husband of Denise for over 63 years. Loving father to Carolyn (Roger) Press and Judy (Mark) Empey. Caring grandfather to Robin, Eric, Brigitte, and Julia. Survived by his sister Thelma Miller. Rod was a creative soul. As a talented life-long artist, his work often depicted family life and nature, and his annual Christmas cards were treasured by loved ones. He was also an avid gardener, proud of the beautiful oasis he and Denise created in their own backyard. Special thanks to the oncology team at the Juravinski Hospital for their outstanding care. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Juravinski Cancer Centre would be appreciated by the family.
Denise,
I am so sorry for your loss. I only met Rod once but he was so kind to me and I really enjoyed speaking to him. Seeing his beautiful artwork was truly inspiring and I am so thankful for everything he shared with me. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Mrs. Lessard, Carolyn, Judy and families
So sorry about Mr. Lessard’s passing.
Keep the fond memories close and he’ll live on forever in your hearts.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Diana Frate
Our love, prayers and thoughts are with you all during these difficult days and always.
I feel so blessed to have had the honor of having such an amazing Great Uncle. So many great memories. Even though we couldn’t see him as much as we hoped, I hope he knew how much we all loved him (and will, always).
I’ll always remember his great sense of humor (all those lessons on beating the bunch at cards!) and will cherish his incredibly talented artwork (all those gorgeous hand painted Christmas cards!). You all have been such a great influence in my life, and I love you all.
With our deepest sympathies,
Brenda (Bellefeuille) & Alex Vissani.
Denise
I’m so sorry to hear that Rod has passed. I was a salesman for Superior and we met a few times at the Superior Christmas dinners. Your talented man had the well-earned respect of all his colleagues and I miss his subtle sense of humour. Warm regards.
Denise and family
We are so sorry to hear of Rod’s passing. We were neighbours for many years and always enjoyed chatting with him.
Thinking of you during this very sad time.
Greatly saddened to hear the news of Mr. Lessard’s passing. Having spent many hours with the Lessards as a teenager; I remember a kind and welcoming man who always made me feel comfortable in his presence and his home. My deepest condolences to Mrs. Lessard, Carolyn, Judy and family.
What great fun we had on our hikes, picnics, lunches and just sitting on benches gabbing. As the song says “the laughter we were glad to share will echo through the years – we’ll have these moments to remember”. Will think of you always.
Maria & Sherrin
I’m sending you all my love and sympathy. I have such great memories of Uncle Rod growing up and all of the laughs we had at the dinner table at Easter and Christmas. I truly loved him and miss you all. It’s sad that Simon and Dexter never got to know him because they know the stories and about the good times we had. We’re thinking of each of you, especially during this sad time. All of our love, Andrea, Peter, Dexter and Simon xoxox
Denise…I’m very sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Michelle Martin Edwards
We were so sorry to hear about Uncle Rod’s passing. So many wonderful memories. I love and cherish all the great card games, holidays and adventures spent together. He had the best sense of humor. I always new we’d have a great time when Uncle Rod and Auntie Denise were there! He inspired me to practice watercolors and a smile always comes across my face when I break out the box of brushes and supplies he passed along to me. I will treasure them always. I miss him dearly. All my sympathy and love are with you all right now. Love from Marnie and Family.xo
We are very sorry to hear about the passing of Roddy. Friends for so many years, lots of Friday night card games and laughs. He will truly be missed. Myrna Oakley and girls
Sorry to hear of your Loss. Gord and I met you both many years ago.