Condolence: sincerest sympathies and prayers to all members of the Kosowan family

Lloyd Leonard

Condolence: Auntie Winnie and family; my most heartfelt condolences on the passing of Uncle Leo.
I'm blessed he came to my wedding with "the boys". He certainly made it a fun night.
My heart breaks for your pain but try and remember he's at peace and without pain.
Prayers, hugs and kisses to all of you💔❤️

Condolence: To my Auntie Winnie and family, I send my love, thoughts and prayers. In commemoration of (my Uncle) Leo, I’d like share a few stories and memories that hopefully will bring you a comforting smile during this very difficult time. ♥️

I have such fond memories of my time spent at Auntie Winnie and Uncle Leo’s. Growing up, we spent many holidays and summers together - and I always looked forward to our visits. Whether heading up to Guelph or venturing to Lake Nepahwin for summer vacation; I knew we were in for energetic, eventful and entertaining times!

Uncle Leo, you were one of a kind. Your work ethic, determination and zest for life are to be admired. As a kid, I was a bit intimidated by you; but also thought you were hilarious and very interesting. We were always curious to know what you were up to; as you seemed to
constantly be tackling a never-ending list of projects. Whether building a lean-to, repairing interlock or strategizing on how to get rid of various waterfowl on the Nepahwin beach - there was never a dull moment.

As we reminisced earlier today; Logan and I both appreciated how you always took the time to teach us about why and how you/we were doing something. Many lessons were not without real life examples, either. Like this one time - when you abruptly interrupted a peaceful BB gun lesson with Mason - to barrel down the lawn shooting and yelling at Canada geese making their way onto the beach.

You also taught us to be creative, to work together and use what we had. This one summer, after a massive wind storm in Sudbury, (that took down trees, etc.) you recruited all the nieces, nephews and grandkids to get the yard cleaned up. Near the end of the afternoon, I remember us all laughing so hard - because you tied a massive rock to a rope and relentlessly lassoed it over a broken tree branch - until it finally came down. We kept telling you there was another way; but you never gave up and down it came. I have it on video and still laughed so hard even years later!

In addition to many lessons, you shared a lot of stories, theories and wisdom. To this day, when someone burns toast I can still hear you saying “oh ya that black stuff; it’s good for you; cleans you out...”

Thank you for making us smile and laugh! Your dances with Auntie Winnie, classic La-Z-Boy nap poses and one liners constantly resulted in a good chuckle. You said what was on your mind.
Rest In Peace, Uncle Leo. We will miss you dearly. Thank you for all the memories, lessons, love, wisdom and laughter. ♥️

Love, Chelsea 🥰

Condolence: My name is William Boote, Winnie’s brother and Leo’s brother-in law. I met Leo in the summer of 1952, shortly after my family had immigrated from Amsterdam, Holland. I would be turning 10 years old that summer. My family occupied a “rustic” frame house on Clearlake Road not far from Sproulx Lake. Often on weekends, a red Mercury truck with black fenders would come roaring down the road in a cloud of dust, heading towards the lake, and return in about an hour or two later. "Wei is die jongen?" we all would ask curiously.

One hot weekend when Winnie was home visiting, all of a sudden "we had to go to the lake for a swim". This was normal, as Winnie is very spontaneous and an avid swimmer. That said, we trudged on to the lake and old wood bridge giving access to the water. Upon our arrival and surprise, there it was, that mystery red truck and Leo, a handsome young man that would impact and forever change our lives.

After Winnie and Leo married and over time as I became older, my brothers and I started to help Leo on various jobs whenever possible and during summer vacations. We spent many hours together on various “work projects”, such farm chores, painting, construction, hauling and piling lumber, logging, and traveling to numerous places between Hearst and Cochrane just “to go see a guy” .

What I remember most is that he always appreciated our work efforts and ensured our safety. He never found fault or complained if work was not done incorrectly, or completed on time. If equipment broke down due to oversight, mistake or accident, Leo just dealt with it without laying blame or losing his temper. That was the essence of the man that I knew and respected. I once read a quote: “A brother-in-law is someone who comes into your life and becomes a brother and friend”. How true!

Leo was a tireless, smart and astute business man with an uncanny ability to recognize opportunities and changing demand for goods and services. His entrepreneurial undertakings evolved from supplying fire wood, fuel oil, coal, propane, gasoline/diesel fuels, environment/sanitation, hotelier and bars, furniture, as well as mineral exploration and mining development. He was truly a talented and multifaceted man.

Leo valued his family and friends. He made himself available not only to his children and, grandchildren, but also to my family and a wide network of relatives and friends. He traveled extensively all over the world and easily made friends wherever he went. He cultivated many true and lasting friendships throughout his life and was steadfast in his support of family, relatives and friends. Leo joyfully celebrated his 88th birthday in November 2019.

He was not a man to complain; he bravely battled several major health issues with a strength and grace that is hard to describe.

Leo touched the lives of countless people with his optimism, positive attitude, enthusiasm, joy of life and endless energy to “get things done quickly and correctly”. Many of us have witnessed this firsthand.

Leo held in high esteem the doctors, nurses and personal support workers; his wife, children, family and friends who cared and supported him on his final journey. Privately he acknowledged that they were “the best”. They certainly are.

On behalf of the entire Boote family, we are grateful to help commemorate the life of our beloved Leo. I am certain everyone reading this tribute has been touched by the amazing spirit of this wonderful man.

Condolence: Mr. Kosowan was always a kind soul who loved his family dearly. I will always have happy memories of Mr. and Mrs. Kosowan's hospitality, generosity, and sense of humour. My thoughts and prayers go out to Mrs. Kosowan and the entire family.

Condolence: When I heard that your Dad had passed away last week, it brought a flood of memories of my time spent with him and your entire family.
A few thoughts I'd like to pass along to each of the Kosowan family members if I may...

Carol: My first pin-up girl. Okay, it was a PC election sign in the top window of 4 Devonshire St.--much to the chagrin of my union dad. I voted PC once in my life, and it was basically because I couldn't vote for you then.
Leo Jr: Had the kindness to interview me for a job and the good sense not to hire me, saving both of us some grief-- I'm sure. (LOL)
Dianne: The long-haired beauty. Who didn't have a crush on you? Thanks for welcoming me into your home on that memorable March Break trip.
Steven: Arm twists and Indian burns. But you introduced me to the Clash, Elvis Costello, Sex Pistols, Specials, and others. All is forgiven and then some.
Janet: The mysterious free spirit. The kind who made a guy wish he was a little older. ;0)
Michael: My lifelong friend. Le Petit Lutin. Always sharing Double Zout droppies even though you knew I wouldn't eat them. Our friendship survived a BB to the eye. I have always admired you, been jealous of your effortless cool, celebrated your success, and mostly, always loved you. My favourite laugh of all time.
Winnie: A great mother. One of the most beautiful souls ever. I am predisposed to loving the Dutch because of you. I went to the Netherlands for 5 days last spring and thought of you the whole time. In fact, I think of you often. Your impact on my life can never be understated.
Leo Sr: Always had to call twice - one to be barked Hello at, only to have to call again--but you always let it ring through. Clever and thrifty - a money maker and business builder. A conservative of the old school, much loved by this raging socialist. Underneath the gruff exterior, a man who treated me with great kindness and generosity. Always ready with a teasing quip and a twinkle in your eye. I remember your voice like it was yesterday. I'll never ever forget you.
Such was the impact of the Kosowans on my life.
I love you all.
Sean Barrette

Condolence: On behalf of the Darling family, Betty, Bruce and Marg, our deepest sympathy to all the Kosowan family. We have so many wonderful memories of times spent with the Kosowan’s while growing up in Kapuskasing. Betty (now 95), extends her personal condolences as well. We did a lot of reminiscing today.

Condolence: Dear Aunt Winnie and family: My deepest sympathy and condolences on the passing of Uncle Leo. I know these will be tough times but I truly believe he enjoyed and had a good life. I will also have many fond memories of my Uncle. I respected him. And the fact he would always visit when up in "his neck of the woods". He would stand at my place and just look at the "bush" in silence. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Condolence: MY sincere condolences to the Family for your loss.I know it is difficult when you lose someone you Love,and I understand how you feel...ALL of my thoughts/sympathies and prayers are with all of you at this time as you reflect on the memories.Uncle Leo was always helpful with advice on things that mattered and I appreciated the time and guidance he offered to me...He will be missed.....

Condolence: Hi Auntie Winnie

Just wanted to send my condolences on the passing of Uncle Leo. I know it will be both mentally & physically exhausting.❤
I have many fond memories of the years we spent on the farm in Kap. The ponies, the building of snow forts and time in the hayloft and playing many outdoor games with my cousins.
I remember Mom talking about how Uncle Leo always teased her, Xmas with cabbage rolls and padaha, and Uncle Leo foraging for mushrooms and frying up pan fulls. I even remember his truck cause I would always swing from the railings. My thoughts and love to you and all your family .

Love Johanna