Obituary of Leroy Pugsley

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our father, Ronald Leroy Pugsley of Regina, SK, on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at the age of 89 years.  He was predeceased by his loving wife of 66 years Helen (nee Backus); parents Frank Thomas Pugsley and Almina (nee Blakely) Pugsley; sister Lorraine Thompson; brothers-in-law Roald Thompson and Joseph Backus; sisters-in-law Mary Backus, Marguerite Jones and Martha Moses; and daughter-in-law Robin Pugsley.

Dad will be lovingly remembered by his children, Karen Pugsley, Ron (Bonnie), Brian (Glenda), and Grant; grandchildren, Amy, Michelle, Tracy-Lynn, Kathie-Lee, Rachael and Kyle; brother-in-law Don (Sandy) Backus; sister-in-law Alsinah Backus; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Dad was born on January 1, 1935, at Spring Coulee District of Sintaluta, SK.

Dad based his life on faith, family, and friends. He loved going to church regardless of where we were living but it was First Presbyterian church in Regina where Dad and Mom spent much of their church life. Dad loved his involvement in the church teaching Sunday School, was on the Board of Managers and was an Elder. His life of faith was the fabric for Dad’s daily life, his family life and everyone he interacted with.

After graduation in 1953 from Luther College, Dad started his career with SaskTel. Dad’s career spanned 35 years at SaskTel which involved moves throughout Saskatchewan and to Montreal and Ottawa. Dad retired in Saskatoon where he was responsible for SaskTel’s operations in Saskatoon and northern Saskatchewan. It was in North Battleford where he met the love of his life, Helen.

After one year in retirement Dad took a close friend's suggestion and joined the real estate industry which he loved.

Dad, like Mom, loved the new adventures with each move but it was his passion for his church, family, friends, and community that were most important to him.

Dad was a firm believer in giving back to the community and helping. He volunteered and participated with many organizations that made a difference in the lives of others; United Way, the Nutana Lions Club in Saskatoon, the Masonic Lodge in Regina and CNIB were some of Dad’s favourites.

Dad was honoured by the Lions International Foundation as the recipient of the Melvin Jones Fellow award for dedicated humanitarian service.

Dad had a profound sense of humour, it was so good he always laughed at his own jokes!

We will miss Dad but are grateful for the lessons he shared and his love.

A Memorial Service for Dad will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at First Presbyterian Church, 2170 Albert St, Regina with the Rev. Amanda Currie officiating. For those unable to attend, a livestream may be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOEJIciIXkI.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to CNIB or a charity of your choice.