Leonard Hawkins

Lenny was born in Toronto Ontario on October 28, 1948 to loving parents Olive and Gordon Hawkins Sr. The youngest of three siblings, he was always regarded by Gordon Jr (Junior) and Amabel (Sister) as the 'baby brother' despite being only a few years younger. In addition to their nicknames, the siblings had pet names for each other that were used for teasing purposes - Junior was 'Junebug'; Sister was 'Annaball'; and Lenny was 'Meatball'. Use of these nicknames and pet names continued throughout adulthood.

Sadly, Lenny's mother Olive passed away when he was 8 years old. His big sister Amabel who was three years older, and dear Aunt Pauline Davis looked after him while his dad Gordon Sr was away working as a Porter on the railroad (Pullman Co). Dad was gone several days at a time working the Toronto/Noranda route. On return, he would bring Junior, Sis and Lenny candy bars and chewing gum. Lenny was always first to receive the treats.

Lenny had many friends growing up but Billy Fleet and Ronnie (Ron) Gergley were his closest childhood friends. Both lived nearby on Gerrard St E near Woodbine Av.; they were inseparable and delighted in wearing their Davey Crockett and cowboy outfits and acting out. Lenny kept in contact with Billy until Billy's untimely passing years ago due to chronic illness. Lenny also stayed in touch with Ron. In fact, Ron and Lenny tried to rearrange cabinets and stands in Lenny's hospital room during his final stay at Bridgepoint Health, reportedly laughing throughout about lack of options.

Lenny served as an Altar Boy for several years at St John's Norway Anglican Church, Toronto. His final resting place is in cemetery next to the Church where he happily and joyfully served. Lenny attended Bowmore Road Public School and Monarch Park Collegiate. He loved to dance, dance, dance and roller skate at Mutual Arena. In later years, he enjoyed bowling so much he purchased a bowling ball with carrying case. He also never missed the annual Oldies Dance; had a vast music collection; and an outstanding wardrobe that could easily fill a few clothing stores.

After high school, Lenny started his work career in sales: first as Sales Associate with Grand and Toy Ltd; and then Salesperson in the men's shoe department of Simpson's (now The Bay). He excelled in sales due to his strong customer service skills, product knowledge and friendly people-person personality.

Lenny said he wanted to work on the railroad like his father and uncles did. So he realized this goal when he was hired by Via Rail on May 15, 1981 as a Service Attendant, a job he held for over 25 years before retiring early due to eyesight problems.

Lenny was family-centered. He was full of fun and his one-liners made him the life of all family dinners, picnics and parties. But, don't forget the ketchup; and "please don't forget to have sliced limes for vodka and tonic"! Lenny loved to entertain friends and family; he hosted countless parties. He was very generous; and delighted in gift giving to all family members and to many friends at Christmas. He was a happy man.

Lenny’s loving nephew Trevor, dear brother Junior and Junior’s mate Alice predeceased him in 2012, 2018 and 2020 respectively.

Lenny was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2016 at Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH). He underwent surgery in 2017; and chemo, radiation and clinical trial immunotherapy treatments at PMH. Due to his cancer condition, Lenny suffered two mini-strokes requiring in-patient care and physiotherapy at Bridgepoint Rehabilitation Hospital; and at home care by outstanding, compassionate PSW's. He never gave up; he wanted to live and said he was hoping for a miracle. Telephone and WhatsApp video calls from family and friends, and visits lifted his spirits. While he was in Bridgepoint Health, he called Sis regularly to find out nightly Jeopardy TV gameshow results and to discuss topical issues. He wanted to attend an upcoming St Patrick's Day dance if arrangements could be made to take him. Lenny fought the good fight and finished the race on February 28, 2023 with loving support of family and friends.

Lenny leaves a big family and many friends who mourn his death and will forever cherish his memory:

-Dear Brother of Amabel (Keith)

- Proud Father of son Tyler (Jill)

- Dearest Lenny-Pops to Mili, Hazel and Carmen

- Adored Uncle of Michele (Ron), Lynn, Kevin (Ania), Natalie

- Loving Great-Uncle to Jerome, Janée, Jordan, Mallory (Greg), Erin, Kayla, Kennedy, and Conor

- Loving Great-Grand Uncle of Raeon, Kolten and Roman

All are thankful to have enjoyed the happy, memorable times they were blessed to have with him. "Grief is the price we pay for love." May Lenny Rest in Peace Eternal.

Thanks be to God.

A private family interment will occur on Saturday April 8, 2023 at St. John’s Norway Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will follow at 2:00 p.m., Markham District Veterans Association, 7 Washington St, Markham. Please confirm attendance by April 1, 2023; email amabelwatson17@gmail.com

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in the memory of Leonard Hawkins at CNIB foundation , the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation or the Hennick Bridgepoint Foundation .