Obituary of William Leonard Braithwaite

BRAITHWAITE: William Leonard “Len” – It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Len Braithwaite, a lifetime resident of Blenheim who passed away at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, Chatham Campus on Thursday, March 31, 2011 at the age of 82. Born in Blenheim, Len was the son of the late William and Jennette (McKay) Braithwaite. Loving husband to Mary Lou Braithwaite (nee Pardo). Dear father to Bill Braithwaite of Blenheim and Luanne Giesler and her husband Joe of Jefferson, South Dakota. Proud grandfather to his grand-dog Bubs. Len will be missed by his sister Bessie Mallory and her husband Raeburn as well as by many friends and extended family. Predeceased by his sister Jean Braithwaite. Everyone who knew Len will miss him for his big wave and bigger smile. Len owned and operated the Pine Ridge Mink Ranch. He loved to travel, especially his trips on cruise ships and on the Orient Express. On one memorable occasion, he flew with his son Bill in a Concorde to the North Pole “just for brunch”. Len enjoyed life, and enjoyed helping others, serving as a Shriner and with the Kinsmen K65 for many years. Family to receive friends at the Funeral Home, 141 Park Street, Blenheim on Sunday from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held at the Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 4, 2011 with Rev. Bill Terris officiating. Interment to follow at Evergreen Cemetery. Donations made in memory of Len to the Juvenile Diabetes Association or the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation of Canada would be appreciated. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com, McKinlay Funeral Home, 141 Park Street, Blenheim, Ontario, 519-676-3451.