Leslie "Les" Henry Heintz

With broken hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Leslie Henry Heintz on October 29, 2020. He passed away at home among family, at age 82.  Les was pre-deceased by Sharon, his wife of 54 years, brothers (Bob & Marvin) and infant sister.  Left to mourn are his children - Jim (Pam), Bill, Joy (Ken), Eva (Ryan) and their families, his brother Bill (Madeleine), and numerous other family and friends.

We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Jana from Palliative Care, for your compassion and genuine regard. We are also grateful to friends, Betty and Bob Harris.

Les was born in Winkler, MB on July 23, 1938 and moved to The Pas at age 4. He started working at age 15, doing manual labor for PFRA. He was “a scrawny thin kid” (his words) so they had him crawling into culverts. He later did surveying, and learned to run heavy equipment.  He met Sharon (Thurlbeck) at a dance – he knew she was the one and they married on December 6, 1958, and had four children.

He found a new passion in carpentry when he changed jobs, but then was given the opportunity to buy a D6 Cat.  This was the beginning of his lifelong career - operating heavy equipment.  He started his own business, Les Heintz Construction, in 1966. He purchased 90 acres of land in 1973, clearing and subdividing it, with plans to build a new home - until he felt the urge to build another, and another. He built 8 houses over the years, the last of which was his home until his passing – he built that one at age 75!  Despite his declining health, he wanted to be at home on his acreage - it was his “happy place”.

Dad was a Jack-of-all-trades, fondly known as “MacGyver” in our family. He was often fixing things - his way. Despite only having a Grade 6 education, he had amazing talents and imparted his wisdom on all who knew him. He spent his free time at our cabin, enjoyed stock car racing and playing Canasta with friends. While quiet in nature, he was independent with strong convictions. He had a sentimental side and a sense of humour that was evident until the end.

Cremation will take place; a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date so those who loved and cared for Les may attend.  

If so desired, a donation may be made in Les’ name to the Cancer Society of Manitoba, Manitoba Lung Foundation, Heart & Stroke Foundation, or a charity of your choice.

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