Janis Christine LESLIE
Dunnville, Ontario – It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of our matriarch, Janis, on January 26, 2026, in her 79th year. Janis spent the past five months on hospice, at home, surrounded by all that she loved: her family, her pets, and the lake; and true to her nature, until the very end, she was creating lasting memories for all of us. Janis, a.k.a. “Jan Babe”, was a loving wife to David for over 57 years, and mum to Vawn (Milt), Michael (Suzy), Michele (Tim), Tammilyn, Tracilee, Jodi (Tom), Robin (Beau), Mark (Gill), Grant (Brianne), Maria (Kaitlin), and Noelle (Nicholas). Janis was a Gramma extraordinaire to her 28 grandchildren, whom she knew so intimately that the loss for them is almost unimaginable. She had a special bond, connected often by the waters of Lake Erie, with her sister, Jackie (Shawn); and Jackie’s children, Kelly and Kevin; and their families. We would be remiss not to mention the love Janis had for her special dogs, Murdoch, Beckley, and Sunshine, who will undoubtedly miss the daily training sessions. Janis now joins many loved family members in heaven, but especially her parents and her daughter, Tracilee. For those who know our mum, you know she’s up there enjoying Kremes, baking her heart out, and dancing to Sonny and Cher. A private service was held, and a public Celebration of Life, on the grounds of the family home, will take place in the summer, at her request. A special thanks to the support of Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice, who helped us manage all of Janis’ care at home. If you’d like to make a donation in her name, please donate to the hospice fund at https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/norfolk-haldimand-community-hospice-foundation/.
Mum, until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
Our sincere sympathy Dave and your wonderful family on the loss of your beloved Janis. What a wonderful life you made and shared . Our friendship goes back at least 20 years when I meet you at the hardware store and through our conversation realized that we were neighbours on Sandy Bay. We so enjoyed chatting with you and Janis on your regular bike rides to the beach. How wonderful you were able to care for her at home, a gift of love for sure. May all your precious memories help you all thru the difficult days ahead. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers . Rest easy our dear Janis.❤️
My sincere condolences to Dave and your wonderful family. My memories go back to the beach where you would all congregate with your different activities, which I so enjoyed watching! I will miss you both going by on your bikes and our conversations at our little church. God bless you and your family for taking such good care of Her at home!! Cherish those many wonderful memories you have created over the years.❤️
Matriarch – a word that could not fit better. Cheryl and Jan go back to 8 years old, I go back to wonderful double dates while we were all in high school or early university. What wonderful times we have had the honour to share with our beloved Jan and all of our mutual friends and their children. You will never replace Janis but Dave and my special buddy Noelle will always keep Mum steadfast in their hearts as will all of the wonderful kids, grandkids and the odd great grandkid raised in this exceptional family. Thanks Jan, Dave and family for so generously sharing your lives.
Grant I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your Mom. Althought I didn’t have the privilege of meeting her, reading about her made clear that she had a life well lived. So much family, friends, and Grand children. She would have been so loved by all that knew her, and I’m sure she also loved greatly as well. She would have been such a proud mom and Grandmother. If you need any assistance at all, just ask. I’m always here. Eric.
Dear Dave and family,
I met Janice through years at the fair. She was always lovely, kind and friendly.
I remember many grandkids with her bringing in entries or collecting them. I could feel
their love for each other. May the Lord cover you all with His peace and may you experience
His comfort through His faithful promises. Sincerely, Annette and Robert Schreuders (Rockton)
To David, Robin, Beau and the whole Leslie and extended family,
Our sincere condolences in the loss of your feisty and fearless Mum/Grandma. The giant gap that is left in your hearts and world is a small demonstration of the love she has for each and every one of you. What a legacy she has left this world in all of you! Take with you her spirit, values, love, energy, generosity, and let her live in you forever. What a great impact and influence she created. Sending you love, thoughts, prayers, hugs and time to mourn and heal. Big hug to David. Xo Love Deb and Daryl
North Van, BC