February 9, 1925 – August 12, 2016
Leo Hutlet, born on his parent’s farm near St. Alphonse Manitoba, passed away peacefully on the evening of August 12th. He was 91 years old and he will be dearly missed. Leo grew up and spent the first part of his life in South Western Manitoba. As a member of the armed forces he spent time in England, Belgium, Germany, the Middle East and various parts Canada before settling on the West Coast. This last decade, Leo lived in Sidney, B.C. and was always walking the streets with his faithful pooch Lord Nelson. He also had a presence at many of the local eateries and could often be seen at Suisse Bistro, Red Brick, Sabhai Thai, Five and Dime, Beacon Landing, Third St. Café and Maria’s. He also loved to spend Saturday evenings attending mass at St Elizabeth’s Parish before heading off to listen to his daughter in-? law, Edie DaPonte, sing Jazz at the Beacon Landing. Sunday mornings he could be counted on to see off the boats in the yacht races that started from the Beacon Pier. Prior to moving to Sidney in 2005, 2 years after the death of his wife Julia, Leo and Julia lived in Cedar and Ladysmith. Known for their involvement with St. Mary’s Parish, Leo played a big role in the care and maintenance of the parish. They also developed a reputation for producing the best eggs and also the best lamb the island had to offer thanks to Spot and Shirley. Leo was a World War II veteran and was wounded in battle in Northern Germany after crossing the Rhine River. He was a trooper in all respects, right up until the end. He was blessed with good health, good friends, loving family and everyone who knew him benefited from the man who was Leo. We would like to thank the angels at Saanich Peninsula Hospital for looking after dad in his last days. Leo is survived by his five children, Beverly, Vernon, Kim, Tracey and Glenn and his sister Yvette Brandt and brother Etienne Hutlet. There is a service to celebrate Leo at St. Elizabeth’s Church on Third St. in Sidney Tuesday, August 23rd at 9am.