Leslie Melvin Waldner
June 22, 1947 – January 27, 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Leslie Melvin Waldner, who peacefully left this world on Monday January 27, 2025, in Saskatoon SK at the age of 77.
Born on June 22, 1947 in Saskatoon, Leslie was the youngest of three boys, raised on the farm by Langham SK. He often reminisced about helping his mother feed the chickens and gather eggs, a small but cherished memory that reflected his lifelong values of hard work, responsibility and connection to his roots.
Leslie is now reunited with his parents, Peter and Barbara, his brother Percy, sister-in-law Frieda and brother Stanley. As the last of his immediate family, his passing marks the closing of a cherished chapter, but the love, values and memories he carried will live on in those he leaves behind.
Throughout his life, he was known by many names: Leslie, Les, Melvin, Mel, Uncle Les, Uncle Mel, L. Melvin, and La – each a testament to the many relationships he built and the different roles he played in the lives of those who knew him. Whether as a brother, uncle, teacher, mentor or community leader, Leslie was known for his warmth, generosity and ability to make every connection meaningful.
He attended Langham Elementary School before graduating from Walter W. Brown High School in 1965. His passion for education led him to the Teacher’s College in Saskatoon, where he earned his teaching certificate.
Leslie began his teaching career in Osler, instructing Grade 3 and later Grade 6, before sharing his love for numbers by becoming an accountant, and teaching bookkeeping at the Community College in Osler and Langham.
Beyond teaching, Leslie was a true entrepreneur. He established Waldner’s Tax & Insurance Service, which included SGI Issuing and even a Sears catalog outlet. His dedication to the Langham community was evident in his service on the Board of Directors for the Langham Community Hall and his tireless efforts in organizing fundraisers, community events and variety nights.
Leslie was instrumental in establishing the Fowl Supper as a fundraiser, a tradition that continues to bring people together. He also spearheaded the Radio-a-thon fundraiser with CJWW and Rod Kitter and played a key role in organizing Hutterite reunions, celebrating his roots and the families who settled in the Langham area.
For his service and contributions, Leslie was honoured as Langham’s Citizen of the Year one year, a title he carried with great pride.
Leslie was a true people person. He was friendly, well-informed, strong-willed and always up for a chat. His home was always open, and he was known for hosting gatherings and serving fantastic lunches, making everyone feel welcome.
His passion for cooking led him to start a catering business in the 1980’s, where he became known for his delicious homemade meals. His signature Jell-O fruit salad was a staple at family gatherings. He had an eye for collecting treasures, a love for chocolate pie and enjoyed watching curling.
Many of his tax clients became lifelong friends, as Leslie approached his work with more than just professionalism. He brought warmth, kindness and a genuine interest in the people he served. He was always eager to visit, swap stories and share a laugh, making each meeting feel more like a friendly catch-up than a business transaction. His ability to connect with others and build meaningful relationships ensured that his clients returned year after year, and not just for his expertise, but for the friendship and camaraderie he offered.
His passion for the arts took center stage as director of the Langham Adult Drama Club, where he helped bring productions to life. Offstage, he kept the community on its feet by organizing Twinkletoes Dance classes and community dances, making sure everyone had a ball.
A man of faith, Leslie attended church services and Bible study at Emmanuel Country Church, where he built meaningful relationships. His kindness, generosity and commitment to his community touched countless lives, leaving behind a legacy of service, friendship and dedication.
Leslie’s legacy lives on through his niece Corinne, his nephews Trevor (Karen) and Jason (Chrystal), and his very special nieces and nephew, Lauren, Jacob and Avery, who will always cherish his memory.
Leslie will be deeply missed, but his generous spirit, dedication to his community, and gift for bringing people together will live on in the many lives he touched.
Viewing for family and friends will be held at the Dalmeny Funeral Home on Friday, January 31, 2025 at 7:00 pm. The Celebration of Life Service will take place at the Langham Community Hall on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. with interment to follow at the Langham Cemetery.
CLICK HERE FOR LIVE STREAM LINK OF FUNERAL SERVICE FOR THE LATE LESLIE MELVIN WALDNER
(Please note that the sound system at the place of the funeral is under construction so we will not have the sound quality we usually have during this live stream)
(A copy of the live stream will also be available to view after the service at the link above. The copy will be available for approximately 6 months.)
Memorial donations may be made to Diabetes Canada, 1300-522 University Ave. Toronto, ON M5G 2R5.
Arrangements entrusted to Dalmeny Funeral Home 306-254-2022.
Add Comment