Lawrence Edward George Letniak
April 30, 1951 – June 25, 2021
Lawrence Edward George Letniak was born April 30, 1951 at the Consort Hospital to James and Mary (Tym) Letniak. He completed the family of four children, joining siblings Ron, Darlene and Ellen.
He was to call the Hemaruka, Alta. area home until his passing on June 25, 2021 at the Coronation Hospital at the age of 70.
After graduating from Consort High School, Lawrence received a Science degree from Walla Walla University, WA and it was here that Debbie Siemsen from Sandpoint, ID caught his eye and his heart.
Love blossomed and after their marriage on June 29, 1975, they both took a one-year teaching assignment in Zimbabwe, Africa.
Upon their return to Alberta, they set up their home on the Letniak farm near Hemaruka and the 45-year farming adventure began.
Their lives were complete when two beautiful children came to bless their home, Ryan and Jodi.
They lived busy lives and life was good for many years; Debbie caring for the children as well as working in the field of education, and Lawrence doing what he loved most…farming.
However, sadness struck their home shortly after Debbie’s retirement. Bravely, she battled cancer but passed away on Jan. 6, 2018. Lawrence and Debbie had been married for over 42 years.
Lawrence continued to farm and in time he became acquainted with Sheri Parchment Townsend from Lacombe.
Once more, wedding bells were to ring and Lawrence and Sheri pledged their love to each other and were married on March 8, 2020.
Several months later, Lawrence’s leukemia symptoms seriously surfaced and during the next year, Sheri, lovingly cared for him. He continued farming duties to a lesser degree, but always took joy in doing whatever he could do right until his final day of life. Lawrence and Sheri had been married almost 16 months at the time of Lawrence’s passing.
Lawrence had a cheerful, positive and fun-loving way. He had a genuine interest in people. He often listened without judgment and this allowed him, when appropriate, to give encouragement and timely counsel as well.
Taking time to be involved in the broader community was important to him; he helped where needed, including serving on the Special Areas and Medical Centre Boards for many years.
Two elements were central to Lawrence’s life: his love for God; and his love for people, beginning with his family. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend.
Lawrence lived his life with genuine authenticity being the same at home, at work, at church, or in the community. He walked through life courageously, facing many trials and difficulties over the years, including advanced leukemia in the last year.
His faith in God enabled him to carry on and express gratitude even in adversity. His joyful spirit, his kind, gentle and encouraging ways will be greatly missed.
Lawrence is survived by his loving wife, Sheri; children: Ryan (Trina) Letniak of Edmonton; and Jodi (Marvin) Primero of Burleson, TX; grandchildren: Chloe and Braden Primero; siblings: Ron (Connie) Letniak; Darlene (Paul) Karmy; and Ellen (Bob) Bell; sister-in-law: Patti (Steve) Schultz, brothers-in-law: Don (Cyndie) Siemsen; Dave (Sue) Siemsen; several aunts and uncles; a host of nephews and nieces as well as great-nephews and great-nieces; many cousins and community friends.
Lawrence was predeceased by his wife, Debbie (Siemsen) Letniak; and parents James and Mary (Tym) Letniak.
Interment took place at Lakeroad Cemetery on Sun. July 11, 2021. Celebration of Lawrence’s life will be held Mon. Aug. 2, 2021 at 2 p.m. at the Veteran Full Gospel Church, Veteran, Alta. Luncheon to follow at the Veteran Community Centre..
Memorial donations may be made to the Coronation Hospital and Care Centre.
Condolences can be sent to the family at www.parkviewfuneralchapels.com
Parkview Funeral Chapels & Crematorium entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements. 403-882-3141.
Thank You
The family of Lawrence Letniak would like to thank Dr. Akindipe and the nursing staff of the Coronation Hospital and Care Centre for their excellent care.
