At age 5, Leo’s family moved to Abbotsford, BC where his parents purchased a small dairy/berry farm. When Leo was 9, he accepted Jesus’ gift of salvation with the help of his sister. Seven years later he publicly declared his faith through baptism. Psalm 37:3-7 was one of his favourite Bible passages which challenged and carried him in his walk with God.

God called Leo to pastoral ministry while attending Bible School. He served in Dawson Creek, BC; North Forks, CA; Matsqui, BC; Moose Jaw, SK; Fort St. John, BC and Vauxhall, AB. Leo fully engaged in each church, shepherding his flock. He took a personal interest in people’s lives and prayed for each one by name.

Leo and his future wife, Hilda Stobbe attended the same church but it wasn’t until they served together on a ministry team that they became interested in one another. They were married on August 12, 1960 and served together faithfully for 47 years. God gave them three children: Lorraine, Elaine and Mark.

Leo & Hilda served alongside missionaries in Brazil (1990) and Peru (2003-04) for short term stints which was a highlight for them. Retirement included interim pastoring in Pincher Creek, AB and Hays, AB. He also continued to do carpentry work for himself and others. His love for God, his family and the church was evident. Leading Bible studies, singing in mixed groups and supporting the church continued even after his years of pastoring were done.

Leo enjoyed woodworking at a young age and made many beautiful creations. Hunting, camping, cross country skiing, tennis, table tennis and board games were some of the activities he enjoyed throughout the years. Planning family holidays which included seeing different parts of Canada provided many family memories.

After the death of his first wife, Hilda in November 2007, Leo remarried in July 2009 to Erna Kopp. Shortly after their wedding, Erna became ill and Leo cared for her until her passing in July 2015. God blessed Leo with another helpmate for the last leg of his earthly journey. Erika Koop became his wife July 23, 2016. In January 2017, Leo suffered a stroke which significantly changed the direction of their lives. Leo & Erika moved to Sunny South Care Home in Coaldale, AB where they continued to be a witness for Jesus. In September 2019, the decision was made to move Leo & Erika to Abbotsford, BC to be closer to both sides of the family. God miraculously opened a door of residence at Valhaven Care Home in October 2021 where Leo was well cared for until his passing.

Leo leaves behind his wife, Erika Siemens, his greatest cheerleader in his last years. His children Lorraine (David Graham), Elaine (Steve Pattimore) and Mark Siemens (Linda). His beloved grandchildren: Micah Elgaard (Judith), Janna Elgaard, Danae (Bradyn Gerber), Damien and Dezrae Pattimore, Emjay Zimmer as well as his four precious great-grandchildren: Colton, Taren, Landon and Brynlee Gerber. He also leaves behind his brother, John and brother-in-law, Jake Friesen as well as extended family through the Stobbe, Kopp and Koop families.

A Celebration of Leo’s Life will be held at the COALDALE MENNONITE BRETHREN CHURCH, 2114 – 18 Street, Coaldale, AB, on Monday, January 22, 2024 at 1:00 P.M. with Pastor Gary Burke officiating.