Obituary of Leonard Oshanek
With heavy hearts, the family of Leonard Marvin Oshanek announces his passing on Friday, March 14, 2025, at the age of 87. Leonard was the beloved husband of Frances for 63 years and a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend.
He was predeceased by his parents, Gabriel and Mary (Blazeiko) Oshanek, his sister, Vivian Pletz (Elmer) and his brother-in-law, Wayne Heinrich (Irene). Leonard leaves behind his devoted wife, Frances; their children, Brent (Cissy) Oshanek, their children Brieanne & Chailyn Oshanek; Charlene (Michael) Buchholzer, their children, Matthew (Lara) Buchholzer, Amanda Buchholzer, and his great-grandchildren, Quinn, Roman, and Margot Buchholzer. He is also mourned by his sister, Irene Heinrich, his brother-in-law, Elmer Pletz, numerous sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family and friends.
Leonard was born on July 26, 1937, in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, and grew up on the family farm near Willowbrook. He attended Lookout School and worked alongside his father on the farm, learning the value of hard work from an early age. Leonard’s life journey also took him to The Pas, where he worked on the railroad and later the pipeline in Moose Jaw. However, it was in plumbing where he truly found his calling. After beginning his career with Hancock Plumbing in Yorkton, he continued to work as a plumber with various businesses in Yorkton and Melville.
In 1960, Leonard met the love of his life, Frances Aberhart. They married on October 14, 1961, and together they raised two children, Brent and Charlene. In 1972, Leonard and Frances moved their young family back to the family farm near Willowbrook, where they lived in a mobile home until they built their dream home in 1978. Despite the demands of farming, Leonard continued his plumbing career, balancing both roles with dedication and passion. In 2011, Leonard and Frances moved to Yorkton, where they enjoyed life in a condo.
In 2012, as Leonard's health began to decline, he moved into the Yorkton and District Nursing Home, where he was lovingly cared for by Frances, who spent countless hours by his side every day. Leonard’s sense of humor, warmth, and love never wavered, and his presence was a comfort to those around him.
Throughout his life, Leonard enjoyed many camping and fishing trips with family and friends. He had a deep love for music and often delighted those around him by playing the keyboard and accordion. His joy and laughter were infectious, and he created lasting memories with everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Leonard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He will be remembered for his warm smile, the sound of his laughter, and the endless love he gave to his family. His spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
A celebration of Leonard’s life will take place on Friday, May 30 at 2:00 p.m. at the Yorkton Memorial Gardens Family Centre.
Memorial donations in Leonard’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society.
