VIENNEAU, Leonard A. PhD -


Passed away peacefully with family by his side, at The Carpenter Hospice, Burlington, on Friday, May 6, 2016 at the age of 71. Loving husband of Dianne (nee Leaman) for 51 years. Cherished father of Tony (Samantha Whitlow), Todd (Diana), and Natasha (Maggie). Proud grandfather of Tyler, Stephanie, Matteis, William, and Colin. Dear brother of Henri (Bertrande), Michael (Pinky), and the late Raymond. Len will also be missed by many extended family, friends and fellow Rotarians. Len was a past president (1997-1998) of The Rotary Club of Burlington, a recipient of the Bert McGillvary Award, and a recipient of the Paul Harris Fellow Award.

Len Vienneau was a remarkable man. He was a scholar, an intellect, and an academic at heart. He completed his MSc & PhD in physics in only four years and went on to teach at the University of Moncton, securing his tenure there again in only four brief years. Although he was admired and deeply respected by students and faculty alike, his focus soon shifted and his independence and drive led him in another direction. He moved on to dedicate his life to growing his own successful business with his son Tony. Len also had many interests and passions outside of work. He loved to sail as a young man, spending time taking his children out on the water in his schooners, and selling sailboats in his spare time. In his later years golf became the all-consuming passion, which he studied with the zeal of a physicist’s mind. Mom’s novels were soon crowded out of their bookcases by endless rows of golf guides and manuals. He loved to spend time on the green with his wonderful golf buddies and his sons.

As a husband and a father, Len devoted his life to loving and supporting his family. He was a caring and attentive husband and an outstanding role model to his children of what it means to move through life with dignity, strength, and humour. He is remembered by so many for his ready smile and his gentle ways. He was a constant presence in our lives, both quiet and comforting, never seeking to be the centre of attention, but always ensuring that he was there for all of us. We could always rely on him to share his interests and intellect, the depth and breadth of which could carry him into passionate and intelligent conversations on a stunning range of topics. We always came away having learned something new or with an altered perspective when we engaged with him.

Dad, we hope you knew how deeply your wife, children, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren loved and admired you and that we will forever carry you in our hearts.

The family would sincerely like to thank the following people and organizations for their incredible care and support: The Juravinski Cancer Centre with loving care by Oncologists Dr. Sur, Dr. Dhesy-Thind, Dr. Haan, and Pain Clinic Specialists Dr. Slaven, Dr. Swan and their teams, specifically Linda Young and Deb Evans; Home Care nurses in both Dunnville and Burlington were invaluable support, with special thanks and appreciation to Vic and Jane; and the entire staff at The Carpenter Hospice, an incredible Burlington institution.

Private cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Len’s Life will be held at The Burlington Golf and Country Club, 422 North Shore Blvd E, Burlington, on Friday May 13, 2016 from 4pm to 7pm. If desired, donations in Len’s memory to The Carpenter Hospice, The Juravinski Cancer Centre, or victoriasquiltscanada.com would be sincerely appreciated by the family. (Arrangements entrusted to SMITH’S FUNERAL HOME, BURLINGTON, 905-632-3333).

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