Richard George LeBlanc

Richard George LeBlanc July 6, 1957 – March 20, 2025

It is with profound sadness and love that we announce the passing of Richard George LeBlanc, who left this world peacefully on March 20, 2025, at Simcoe Hospice in Barrie, Ontario, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 67 years old.

Born in Red Deer, Alberta, Richard was an Air Force brat and grew up in Edmonton and St. Albert, Alberta, and then Ottawa, Ontario alongside his four siblings. Some of his most cherished memories were of helping his father and brothers build and then holiday at the cottage on Bass Lake, waterskiing on one ski, and watching dragonflies land on his mom’s swim cap – memories he often recalled with a warm heart and a big smile.

A self-described "renaissance man," Richard had an insatiable curiosity and a deep appreciation for beauty, which he expressed through his art, and his music. He was a gifted and self-taught painter who specialized in classic realism. He played guitar with great passion and found joy in rock music – his true religion. He played in garage bands and performed locally at restaurants and small events around the city. Few things made him happier than hopping on his custom Harley Davidson, riding through the countryside, and stopping at a roadside diner for coffee.

Richard began his career in service to his country, joining the Canadian Armed Forces Navy in 1976. He proudly served until 1984, achieving the rank of Leading Seaman and travelled the world. Afterward, he worked at Hydro Ontario before earning his Bachelor’s degree and beginning an impactful career in social work.

Over the years, Richard became a respected leader and advocate in the field of social services. He served in numerous communities across Canada – from Terrace, British Columbia, to several regions of Nunavut and later in Ottawa. In each role, he brought compassion, strength, and a unique ability to truly connect with people. Whether managing youth treatment programs, supporting families affected by violence, or championing community justice, Richard was deeply committed to uplifting others and building meaningful relationships.

His work wasn’t just a job – it was a calling. As Director of Supports and Services at the Ottawa Carleton Association for Persons with Developmental Disabilities, Richard helped modernize and improve programs, always putting people first. And through his years up North—in Cape Dorset, Kitikmeot, Kugluktuk, and Iqaluit—he became part of the fabric of each community he served.

In 2017, Richard met his beloved partner, Winnie, while living in Iqaluit. The bond they shared was one of laughter, devotion, and unwavering love. Together, they built a life filled with shared adventures, cozy nights with their dogs binging a series, and the joy of renovating their dream home in Barrie, Ontario.

Diagnosed with colon cancer in 2020, Richard faced his illness with bravery, wit, and resilience. He endured surgeries and chemotherapy with a fierce determination to fight, supported every step of the way by Winnie, whose care and dedication were a true gift to him and his family.

Richard was many things – emotionally intelligent, brilliant, playful, and deeply creative. He could fix almost anything, build something from nothing, and make even the most tedious chore fun. Above all, he was a loving and dedicated father. Though distance sometimes separated them, he never stopped showing up for his children. He taught his son about art, coached his eldest daughter through school and baseball, and supported his youngest daughter in her passions, especially her singing. Richard was always there for his kids.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, humour, and determination. Richard was the best father he could be, and he was so proud of the people his children became.

He is survived by his partner Winnie Tan; daughters Jessica LeBlanc (James McDermott) and Denise Maude (Glenn Maude); father Richard LeBlanc; brothers Reigh LeBlanc and Norman LeBlanc; sister Christie LeBlanc; grandchildren Brodie McDonald and Ciara Forgie; and best friend Cooper (The Dog), and many others whose lives were made brighter by knowing him. Richard was predeceased by his son Adam LeBlanc; mother Edith May LeBlanc; and sister Corinne LeBlanc.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to his dedicated oncology team at the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre and to the staff and volunteers at Simcoe Hospice Barrie for the incredible compassion and care they provided Richard and his family during his final days.

In honour of Richard’s adventurous and generous spirit, we encourage those who knew him to share a story or take a ride through the country in his memory.

The family will be hosting a private celebration of life on June 29th at his residence in Barrie, Ontario. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Simcoe Hospice Barrie in memory of Richard George LeBlanc.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.