On April 9, 1930, a beacon of love and strength, Leentje Pieternella Les, fondly known as Leny, graced this world. Her journey through life, marked by unwavering devotion, resilience, and a profound love for family, came to a peaceful end on January 15, 2024, at the age of 93. Surrounded by her family at her home in Sunset Manor, Chilliwack, Leny transitioned to eternal rest, leaving behind a legacy that spans generations.
Leny’s life story is interwoven with love, partnership, and a shared commitment to family. In 1951, she and her husband, Chris, embarked on a journey from the Netherlands to Canada, where they began a life together as newlyweds. Their union blossomed into a beautiful family of twelve children, and they nurtured this family alongside the growth of their dairy farm business. The love, loyalty, and devotion that Leny and Chris shared created a foundation of strength for their entire family.
The passing of Chris in 2000 was a profound loss for Leny, marking the beginning of more than two decades of grief. Her resilience during this time reflected the depth of her character and the enduring love she held for her husband. Leny also bore the sorrow of losing her daughter Leeann (May) Ratelle in 2022, along with her brothers Willem and Jan Hartman. Through these losses, Leny’s spirit remained steadfast, a testament to the strength that defined her. Left to mourn Leny’s passing are her twelve children: John (Mattie), Don Ratelle, Corney (Janet), Jane (John) Sterkenburg, Martin (Marcy), Chris (Denise), Rita Kloot, Tanny (Les) Lindhout, Frank (Debbie), Larry (Sherry), Ed (Sherrie), and Marlene Roseboom. The family extends beyond borders, with five sisters in the Netherlands: Rina Knops, Janny Van Der Sluijs, Ina Kievit, Henny Jordaan, and Riet Grisnigt.
Leny’s enduring legacy is embodied in the vast family tree she cultivated 48 grandchildren, 89 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Her meticulous record-keeping of family birthdays, evidenced by heartfelt emails from her iPad, showcased her dedication to staying connected and celebrating the lives of her descendants. The Les family expresses deep gratitude to the staff at Sunset Manor for their loving care of Leny during her final days. Their compassionate support provided comfort to both Leny and her family, allowing her to transition peacefully.
Celebrating a Life of Faith and Family
Henderson’s Funeral Home will oversee the arrangements for Leny’s funeral service. The Bethel Netherlands Reformed Church, located at 8920 Broadway St., Chilliwack, will host the service on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 9:30 am. Following the service, Leny will be laid to rest beside Chris at Chilliwack Cemeteries. After the interment, an opportunity for friends and family to extend their personal condolences will be available in the church hall. A light lunch will be served for family members, fostering a sense of community during this time of reflection and remembrance.
Honoring Leny’s Memory with Generosity
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Leny’s memory to Sunset Manor Care Home. These donations will honor Leny’s legacy by supporting the place that provided her with comfort and care during her final chapter. As Leny is laid to rest next to Chris, her journey on this earthly plane concludes, but her love and legacy endure. In the hearts of her family, the echoes of her laughter, the warmth of her embrace, and the strength of her spirit will persist. Leentje Pieternella Les, a remarkable soul who touched the lives of many, leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and a commitment to family that will be celebrated for generations to come.
