Bohrson, Leslie
Leslie loved the land. Raised on the family farm in the “Gumbo Centre” district southwest of Hanley, he was the first child born on August 26, 1947 to Tom and Gladys Bohrson. Leslie’s childhood was filled with sports, especially softball, and being an active member in the 4-H Club with a special interest in the beef, grain and potato projects. Leslie’s passion for knowledge took him to the University of SK where in graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in 1971.
Leslie entered into the provincial public service and retired in 2006 from SK Agriculture and Food after 35 years of service. In 1998 he received the “Distinguished Agrologist Award” and his name was added to the “Wall of Honour” at the U of S. The award was presented for “integrity, breadth of knowledge, leadership, experience and recognition by his peers.” In 2006 he received the SK Centennial Medal for his contributions made to the community and province.
Leslie’s devotion to the community was rooted in his love for his family. Leslie met Barbara Dukart while working in his first job and his life was changed forever! They were married on April 20, 1974 in Estevan and lived in Outlook until moving to Swift Current in 1988. During that time the family grew (and grew) with six boys: Mark, Raymond, Stephen, Brian, Adrian and Eric. Les was involved with the Scouts, soap box racing and the SK branch of the Kidney Foundation of Canada. Always arriving in the trademark Bohrson van that held the whole family (and sometimes a second car), they spent summers camping with friends and family and when the temperature dipped they adventured south! Les and Barb’s great joy was when AnnaMarie married Stephen and—finally—there was another girl in the family. Their joy multiplied with the arrival of granddaughters Lilaina and Paige.
Less than two years ago Leslie was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer. It became his mission to raise men’s awareness of their PSA numbers. He died in Swift Current on February 20, 2014. He was the glue that kept many circles and histories connected. His family, friends and colleagues will remember him as a kind and loving man and will be profoundly missed.
Leslie’s funeral will take place on Feb 25th at 1:00 pm at the Hanley Lutheran Church, Hanley, with his sister, Pastor Kristin Soveran presiding.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Leslie’s memory may be made to “Friends of Cypress Hills Park” for a bench on the trails he loved.
Hanson’s Funeral Home of Davidson in care of arrangements.