KNUDSON, LeRoy

July 1, 1919 — April 17, 2015

It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of LeRoy Knudson on April 17, 2015 in Oyama, B.C. at the age of 95 years.

Born in Consort, Alberta, LeRoy was the second son of Roy and Martha Knudson. He spent his adult life working alongside his father Roy on the family farm and pursuing his enduring love of designing and constructing his various inventions. LeRoy met and married Jean Racknor in 1957 and together they raised their two children Karen and Reg, in the very house he was born. In later years when he no longer farmed, he continued to invent and create after ‘retirement’, a word LeRoy never really understood. Jean and LeRoy moved to Kelowna, B.C. in 2001 to be closer to Karen, son-in-law Ben, and granddaughter Emily. He continued to be productive even after moving to the city, creating smaller projects; always finding a way to be active, even into his nineties. LeRoy and Jean moved in 2007 to Oyama to share a home with Karen, Ben, and Emily. Friendly neighbors who marveled at his energy would often joke about how LeRoy might be counted on to help out with their yard work. His response was to fashion a snow plow out of his scooter as well as various other yard work machines and gadgets. His drive and creativity were an inspiration to everyone around him. He showed by example the value of hard work and to always do what you love. His quiet wry humor and gentle soul will be missed by all who knew him.

LeRoy was predeceased by his parents Roy and Martha Knudson, son Reg Knudson, siblings Warren Carlyle, Louise Kroker, Walter ‘Bud” Knudson, and Joyce Hayworth.

LeRoy is survived by his loving wife Jean, daughter Karen, son-in-law Ben, and granddaughter Emily, all of Oyama, B.C., sister-in-law Joyce Knudson, six nieces and three nephews, and several cousins.

 At LeRoy’s request there will be no funeral service.

For those wishing to send a condolence, photos or share memories, may do so by scrolling down this page to the area called “Share Your Condolences.”