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July 31, 1940 - July 5, 2021
It is with deep sorrow and much sadness we announce the passing of Leo Matthew Pauliuk on Monday, July 5, 2021.
Mourning his passing are his loving wife of 59 years, June (Postill); his daughter Carleen; his son Aaron, wife Tracy and their two adorable girls Charley and Quinn. Leo will be greatly missed by his sister Sandra Epplett, husband Bill and their children Patricia (Elodie) and Thomas. Leo is also survived by his sister Barbara Brown, husband Geoff (Australia) and their son Douglas Brown.
Leo was born in Vancouver, BC, on July 31, 1940, and lived in downtown Vancouver on Richards Street in the Passlin Hotel. As a young boy he remembered delivering papers on his bike, taking his wagon and collecting scraps from the numerous restaurants to feed the chickens and all the mischievous things boys will do! He then moved with his family to White Rock in 1954.
He graduated from Semiahmoo High School where he made many friends who continued to remain part of his life. Leo attended UBC and earned a Bachelor Degree in Science with majors in Math, Physics, and Chemistry. He then transferred into Education. While attending university Leo worked in the mines in Hope and Wells to pay for his tuition.
Leo started teaching at Crescent Park Elementary School in September 1961. He was employed by SD #36 (Surrey) for 35 years as an elementary school principal. He retired from Henry Bose Elementary School in 1996. As one colleague said, "Leo was respected by teachers and administrators alike. He was always approachable and supportive of his staff, students, and parents. Leo cared deeply about his school community. He was a dedicated educator."
After retiring, Leo continued to enjoy his Executive motorhome, keeping it in perfect condition for his family's many adventures including a trip across Canada. Some of his other interesting trips were taking a tall ship through the Maritimes; cruising on a ship in the Canadian Arctic (Northwest Passage); and navigating around Great Britain north to Iceland and then further north in sight of the polar ice. He always had a new adventure planned.
Leo could do anything he set his mind to. He was always wanting to learn more. After retiring, he renovated three homes. Our beautiful home is the result of Leo's hard work, talent, and determination to have things done properly.
Leo had a passion for alternative medicines and healing. He read, learned and practised "Healing Touch". It was important that he shared his knowledge and expertise and helped people whenever they asked. He was fortunate to find a like-minded and long-time friend in Willy, who for many years was always there for him.
Leo became a Rotarian after retiring. He made new friends and enjoyed the interactions and activities with the members. Since 2006, he attended the gym three times a week at the South Surrey Pool and Recreation Center and was still going until June 2021. He made many friends there especially Ron who was his "gym buddy". Even through Covid, Ron was there for him, driving and encouraging him.
Leo had health challenges in his later years, and about 3 years ago he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. He found the disease very difficult as it robbed him of many pleasures of his life.
Leo was loved and respected by many. He will be truly missed and will always be remembered. The family has gratefully appreciated the outpouring of condolences and love. A private celebration of his life is being held on July 31st, his 81st birthday.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Clinic for Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders at the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation:
vghfoundation.ca/donate or 604-875-4676 or 190-855 West 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1M9.
Please ensure to note that the donation is being made in Leo's memory.