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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
REYNOLDS, Bert Leonard - Bert died peacefully on Monday, September 10, 2018 at his home in Penetanguishene, Ontario at the age of 91. Bert is survived by his devoted wife of 37 years, Linda (Hackett), his three children: John (Janet) Reynolds, Lynne (Mike) Suzanski, and Debbie Reynolds; and his two step-children: Kelli (Tom) Malecki and James (Kate) Solecki. Proud grandfather of 10 grandchildren: Kim (Mario) Tavares, Kathleen (Kris) Petersen, Jamie (Kate) Reynolds, Mike Suzanski, Lisa Suzanski, Kristin Malecki, Andrew (Megan) Malecki, Steven Malecki, Emma Solecki and Jack Solecki; and four great-grandchilden: Ryan and Matthew Tavares, and Cole and Lauren Petersen. Bert is predeceased by his first wife Margaret (McKenzie), his brothers Jack and Bruce and his sister Esther Gordon. Bert was a passionate and patriotic man. He loved his family, his town and his country and was proud of them all. He was a veteran of WWII, having served in the Navy in 1944-45, and made many trips to the Netherlands to visit the grave of his brother Jack, killed in action in February, 1945 and buried in Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery. Bert felt very honoured to represent his brother and Canadian veterans at various remembrance ceremonies and liberation celebrations in the Netherlands over the years and was particularly happy that granddaughter, Kristin, took part in all three Frank Graham Cycle Liberation Tours in 2013, 2015 and 2017. On these many trips, he made dear friends in Markelo and Groesbeek and many of those friends became like an extended family who visited him in Penetang from time to time. Bert was a member of RCL Branch 68 and a tireless volunteer whenever and wherever he was needed. His favourite job was being the MC at the Tuesday lunches and socializing with everyone. He was named Legionnaire of the Year in 2014 for his dedication and service to Branch 68. He also volunteered for many years at various town events and served as Chairman of the Waterfront Park Advisory Committee in the 1990's. In recognition of this, he was named Penetanguishene's Senior of the Year in 2000. He loved to show people around town and was particularly proud of the Rotary Champlain Wendat Park, his vision come to life. A life well lived, filled with gratitude and with no regrets. Visitation will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion, Penetanguishene on Saturday, September 29, 2018 from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Legion Service at 2:00 p.m. A celebration of Bert's life will follow. Donations to the Penetanguishene Legion Poppy fund will be accepted by the Penetanguishene Funeral Home, 155 Main Street, Penetanguishene ON L9M 1L7 (Simcoe Countey News 10 Sep 2018)
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