Leonard Peter Cartier, better known as Len, was a long time resident of Fort St. John, BC. Len passed away at Dawson Creek, BC, at the age of 82.
Len was born on February 16, 1931 in Prince
Albert, SK, to parents Odias Cartier and
Yvonne Cartier (Colvez), and he was the ninth of 13 children.
He grew up on a homestead at Whitestar, SK, just outside of Prince Albert, SK.
Len started his working career as a long haul truck driver. In 1962 he moved to Dawson Creek, BC where he owned and
operated Cats, clearing cut lines, clearing land, and he also worked on the construction of the WAC Bennett Dam on the Peace River.
Several years later Len turned to welding as a profession and
fabricated everything from tanks for trucks to horse trailers.
Len was well known for his participation in the regional rodeo
circuit, and for his line of Quarter Horses. Some even referred to Len as the “Horse Whisperer”.
In the mid to late 60’s, Len was the President of the Dawson Creek Rope and Saddle Club. He helped build much of the stock pens and chutes at the Dawson Creek Rodeo Grounds.
He actively participated in not only rodeo’s but local gymkhana’s,
giving opportunity to the young future rodeo stars to learn their basic skills.
Len was, in his day, a well-known all-around amateur cowboy.
He was a horse breeder, and developed an excellent lineage of Quarter Horses. Some of these equine athletes went on to
compete at national levels in roping and barrel racing.
Len is fondly remembered by his children: Ron Cartier, Debra
Cartier, Clint Cartier, Vicki Wizniuk (Lee Wizniuk); and grandchildren:
Stephanie Childerley (Brad Childerley), Jessica Gladysz, Jocelyn
Gladysz, and Cole Wizniuk.
Arrangements were entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services &
Crematorium Ltd.