Leonard Michael McIvor

After a 2 year long battle with 3 different cancers, Leonard Michael McIvor passed away at home, with his brother Brian and dear friend Jennifer by his side.

Leonard was born in Winnipeg, MB on May 1, 1965, and throughout his life called a number of places home including Winnipeg, Poplar Point, Westbourne, Portage la Prairie, Gainsville, Florida, and the family farm in Layland, MB.

Predeceased by his father, Keith McIvor in March 2020, mother, Dorothy (nee Radford) in May 2025. He is survived by siblings Teresa McIvor Cosford, Brian McIvor, Cecile Palmer(Cory) and Myrna McIvor, many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews; and loyal dogs Chubbs and Finn.

Leonard was also predeceased by his good friend Joe Cooper (2016)

Leonard gained his love for cars working at his parents Garage in Westbourne during his teenage years. Leonard held a number of jobs over the years where he made many friends including in the construction and mining industries, as well as memorials at Guinn and Simpson. He spent the majority of his life as a self-employed mechanic and was known for his skill and knowledge in auto body repair and finishing, having restored countless vehicles. He was the go-to guy for many friends needing car advice or repairs.

Leonard was happiest when he was with his friends having a few beers and listening to some good tunes, and you knew that you were loved and appreciated when he said, “It’s good to see you out!” He loved musical festivals and being out on the water boating with his friends or one of his dogs that he had at that time. And yes he had a life jacket for his furry friend.

Leonard never met a dog he didn’t like, and every dog he met loved and trusted him and were calm in his presence. He didn’t always love all the people in the room, but he always loved the dog, and the dog knew it.

Also left to mourn his passing are his lifelong friends and their kids, who he considered as his family. He was a fierce protector of those that he loved and was always willing to lend a hand or an ear. His loved ones knew that he always did and always would have our backs. He could be stubborn, blunt, funny and never afraid to tell you what he thought. He had a quick wit and a talent for shocking and making us laugh out loud. Those who knew Leonard would agree that he was a character – sometimes a little rough around the edges, but a solid and loyal friend with a big and generous heart. He will be sorely missed.

We would like to thank and acknowledge the following people. Morgan Jackson a lifelong friend who was always there for Leonard and helped get him to and from his many appointments and what ever else he needed, along with her many visits to the farm to cheer him up. To Jennifer Garrioch Wilson who gave up months of her own life and job in Florida to take care of Leonard at home as she was the one he wanted to look after him. She has been amazing for and to Leonard in getting him through one of his hardest ordeals he had to deal with which also allowed him to stay at the family farm where he wanted to be. For this the family is forever grateful to Morgan and Jen. We would also like to thank Laura and Morgan Jackson, Tracey Webb, and Sharon Rennie for all the love and support they gave Jen and Leonard along with family members and anyone else who we might have overlooked. His hardest journey is over now and we can rest knowing he was well taken care of at the end by the ones he wanted and where he wanted to be for that time. Thank you everyone for all that you have done.

As per Leonard’s request he will be cremated and brought back to the family farm to be with his parents and previous pets.

Donations can be made in Leonard’s honour to Portage Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) or any other animal rescue of your choice.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com