Richard “Dick” Leslie Leavitt
March 9, 2026
Richard Leslie Leavitt passed away unexpectedly on March 9, 2026. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Survived by his wife of 36 years, Evangeline (Vanje).
He will be dearly missed by his daughter Peyton (Jonathan) and their children Asher (Keri), parents of Prairie and Gabriel; son Isaac (Valeriia), parents of Benjamin; and daughter Sara (Dustin), parents of Lucy and Kian; son Dwight (the late Claudia) and their children Larissa, Anna and Julia; son Eaton (Margie) and their child Avi; daughter Chantelle (Mike) and their children Jesse and Sam; daughter Noelle (Brian) and their children Ella and Hudson.
Predeceased by his parents, Milton and Florence, and his two sisters, Barbra and Sandra.
Richard joined the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) at 18 years old and became a fighter pilot at age 20. He spent four years on a fighter squadron stationed in northeastern France during the Cold War. After leaving the Air Force, he was hired by Air Canada, became a Captain, and spent the rest of his professional career flying for them.
Richard was a man of faith whose devotion and love for Christ were matched only by that for his family. Known to his friends as Dick and to his family as Papa, he had a strong and steady presence. He was an avid sports fan and an active athlete, from his high school basketball days to his lifelong love of golf. He was a kind and generous man who gave back to his community and supported many charities, including the Children’s Hospital. In his death, just as in life, he did it his way.
Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at Northview Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, 1490 Highbury Avenue North, London on Friday, March 13, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. with visitation 1 hour prior to the service, with Pastor Leonard Terry officiating.
Memorial donations in Richard’s memory may be made to the Children’s Health Foundation.
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I am so sorry to hear of Richard’s passing. Please know I am keeping you and your family in my close thoughts and prayers. May your beautiful memories of your life together bring you comfort.
We were so saddened to hear of Rich’s passing. Aunt Vanje, please know that you and the family are in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time, and we hope that the love surrounding you and the many memories you shared with Rich bring comfort and peace in the days ahead.
Sincere condolences to you Vanji and family. We have wonderful memories of times together in Myrtle beach
Dearest Vanje: We are so saddened to learn of Rich’s passing….we extend our deepest condolences to you and your families. We wish you comfort and support from those around you. May lovely loving memories and your abiding faith carry you through this difficult time. We have lovely fun memories of times spent with you and Rich….golfing and gatherings to share food and time together….(and being serenaded by the hubbies on Valentine’s) . Love & Hugs Maureen and Wayne
I am just stunned Vanje. Dick always spoke of you. I was going to touch base with him this weekend about my birthday lunch at the Mandarin that we have done for a few years now. I will try to be there Friday. My deepest condolences. ''Death leaves a heartache no one can heal. Love leaves a memory no one can steal.'' -Unknown
Services for Richard “Dick” Leslie Leavitt
Visitation will be held at:
Northview Funeral Home & Cremation Centre
1490 Highbury Avenue North,
London, Ontario
March 13, 2026 11:00 am to 12:00 pm
Memorial Service will be held at:
Northview Funeral Home & Cremation Centre
1490 Highbury Avenue North,
London, Ontario
March 13, 2026 12:00 pm
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Sending my sympathy to his family. I have posted his obit on my ECRS school group and the Leavitt group on Facebook. We are thinking of you. My Great Grandmother was a Leavitt.
~ Marilyn {Leland} Bennett