Obituary of Leo Bernard Ortman

Leo Ortman, late of Regina, SK, passed away peacefully at Grace Hospice on Tuesday, May 21, 2019, in the presence of family. Leo was predeceased by parents Frank and Lydia Ortman; two sisters, Eva Zaron and Margaret (at birth); and five brothers: Mervyn, Leonard, William, Francis, and Andrew. He was also predeceased by his wife and love of his life of almost 64 years, Carol, who passed away in October, 2018. Leo is survived by his son Frank (Sheree) Ortman; daughter Sharlene McGowan (Thomas Scott-McGowan); and grandchildren Laura, Brian and Matthew (Ashley); as well as sister Arlene (Willie); and brother Wilf. He is also survived by numerous sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.  Leo was born in Ceylon, SK, but lived in Regina for most of his life. He attended Balfour Technical School where he played football for two years prior to joining the workforce. He was the youngest plumber in Canada to obtain his Master Plumber’s designation at the beginning of his career and eventually became a senior mechanical inspector for the City of Regina. He and Carol married at Knox-Metropolitan United (then Metropolitan United) on July 9, 1955, and was a proud member of this congregation until his passing. Retired since 1994, Leo and Carol enjoyed beautiful vacations in Mesa, New York, Vegas, cruises, and trips to the mountains. Leo loved all sports and attended NFL, CFL, and NHL games and thoroughly enjoyed Major League Baseball. There were numerous trips to Toronto with family to see the Blue Jays. He particularly enjoyed golfing and fishing. Although he did not have the opportunity for higher education himself, he instilled the love of school and books in his children Frank and Sharlene. He also passed on to them his deep love of music and both became involved in music lessons as children and youth. Leo was extremely generous and was a champion of those less fortunate.  He also had a wit which continued until his last breath. He enjoyed the company of his children, grandchildren, and good friends, but most of all he delighted in the incredible love story he shared with his wife, Carol, who passed away seven months ago. A Celebration of Life will take place at Knox-Metropolitan United Church, 2340 Victoria Ave., Regina, SK on Wednesday, May 29, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Cameron Fraser officiating. Family and friends so wishing may make donations, in memoriam, to the Knox-Metropolitan United Church Organ Fund, 2340 Victoria Ave., Regina, SK, S4P 0S6, Canadian Cancer Society, 1910 McIntyre St., Regina, SK, S4P 2R3, or the CNIB Guide Dog Program, 2160 Broad St., Regina, SK, S4P 1Y5 to help people who have vision impairments.