Leonard William Gold

Leonard William Gold, also known as Len or Lenny, lived a life defined by resilience, humour, loyalty, and an enormous heart.

Born in Edson, AB on April 29, 1948, Len’s family story was complex, but what mattered most to him was connection. He remained close to the people who showed up, believed in him, and mattered most in his life. He maintained bonds with siblings Shawn and Heather throughout his life and later reconnected with his birth mother, Mary, and his sister Susan—relationships that remained meaningful and enduring to the very end.

In April 1969, Len married Carol Kavanagh of Kimberley, BC. Together, they built a life rooted in love, hard work, and devotion. They raised their two children in Kimberley, where Len worked for many years as a millwright at Cominco Mines before later relocating to Gibsons, BC. There, he continued his career at Howe Sound Pulp and Paper until retirement.

Len was a devoted father to Terry and Shauna. In 1999, he experienced the devastating loss of his son Terry, a grief that stayed with him always. Terry left behind Len’s first grandson, Colin, who became a profound source of pride and joy. In 2014, Len welcomed his second grandson, Levi, son of Shauna and her wife, Mavreen. His love for his grandsons was fierce, joyful, and unwavering.

Len and Carol didn’t have much when their children were growing up, but they gave everything they had. They were the kind of parents who went without so their children never had to. Their generosity and love knew no bounds, and their home was always filled with warmth—and most certainly, always a dog. Animals gravitated to Len, and dogs adored him, as if they instinctively knew his gentle, kind nature.

Len had a giant heart and a wild sense of humour. If he had a love language, it was laughter. He was always cracking jokes, even in his final days. He was also a romantic to the end, often surprising Carol with jewelry and thoughtful gestures. Just days before he passed, he insisted on stopping at a store between doctor’s appointments so he could buy her a Christmas gift.

As a father, Len made sure his love was never in doubt. Even when opinions differed, his pride and unconditional support were constant—a gift that will never be forgotten.

Len had friends wherever he went. He believed deeply in the good in people, gave everyone a chance, and would give the shirt off his back to help someone in need. He was a protector, a steady presence, and someone whose warm smile could light up a room and make you feel seen and important. In return, his friends showed up for him in the end, just as he always had for them.

Stubborn, resilient, and strong, Len endured more hardship than any one person should have to in a lifetime. He survived a heart attack, the tragic loss of his son, multiple major car accidents, cancer, surgeries, chronic pain, and finally an inoperable tumour that took him far too quickly. Through it all, he remained a fighter, holding onto humour and fighting for more time with the people he loved.

Leonard Gold passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of December 27, 2025, at Lions Gate Hospital in North Vancouver, with loved ones by his side.

He will be remembered as a funny, kind, generous man; a devoted husband; a loving father and grandfather; a loyal friend; and someone whose presence made life brighter for everyone around him.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Len's memory can be made at BC Cancer or to the charity of your choice.