It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Leo Louis Goulet on Monday November 28, 2022 at Inglewood Care Centre in West Vancouver, surrounded by his loving wife and 3 daughters. Leo is lovingly remembered by his wife of 65 years, Marylin, sister Julie, daughters Michelle, Louise and Denise, sons-in-law Peter and David, and 8 grandchildren: Christina, Jessica, Julia, Gabrielle, Daniel, Jacqueline, Chanelle and Paul.
Leo was born in Gravelbourg, Saskatchewan to his French Canadian parents, Adele Duhamel and Oscar Goulet in 1933. By the age of 13 the family moved to
Winnipeg, where Leo learned to speak English and developed a love of joke telling, singing, musical theatre and lifeguarding. In 1952 Leo met Marylin, who became the love of his life. They soon discovered that they shared a common passion for faith, music and Catholic community service, which led to their marriage and the birth of their 3 daughters by 1962. Leo began his 33 year career with Air Canada in 1955. While juggling work and a young family, he went to night school and obtained his RIA in accounting, and seized the opportunity to transfer to Air Canada's head office in Montreal in 1966.
As he advanced up the corporate ladder into senior management within Air Canada, he always prioritized his family. In addition to his involvements in music and Catholic community endeavours, Leo also discovered a passion for skiing, tennis and hockey. Yearly trips with the family to Barbados and ski destinations became highlights which further solidified family bonds. Leo and Marylin developed a close circle of friends and hosted musical evenings, where Leo's wit, zany humour and beautiful voice were enjoyed by all.
In 1989 Leo retired and he, Marylin and Michelle headed for greener pastures in Victoria, British Columbia. Leo enjoyed an active retirement nurturing and entertaining family and friends, cruising, beautifying new homes, and having a leadership role with the Air Canada Pionairs and the tennis club. In 2007 they moved to West Vancouver to be close to family. One of Leo's greatest joys was playing and creating close relationships with his 8 grandchildren. He was a fun and engaging grandfather, and remains a loving influence in their lives. As the years progressed and his health declined, Leo received exceptional care from the staff at Inglewood Care Centre, who recognized and appreciated his spirit and 'je ne sais quoi".
Throughout his life, Leo sprinkled his own special "joie de vivre", humour, charisma, and love on all in his path. His gentle presence will be sorely missed by all who know and love him.
A funeral will take place on Saturday December 3rd at 11 am at Christ the Redeemer Parish, 599 Keith Road, West Vancouver.
Please join us in celebrating Leo's amazing life.