Richard “Dick” Leslie Leavitt

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.