Leonard Durdle Leonard Durdle
In Memory of
Leonard
Durdle
Memorial Candle Tribute From
Colchester Community Funeral Home
"We are honored to provide this Book of Memories to the family."
View full message >>>

Obituary for Leonard Durdle

Leonard  Durdle
Durdle, Leonard – Age 92, Truro/New Waterford. It is with deep sadness that the family of Len Durdle announces his passing on August 23, 2020 in Truro, at the home of his eldest daughter, Donna, surrounded by his loving family. Len was born December 14, 1927 in New Waterford to the late George and Melina (Thorne) Durdle. He grew up in New Waterford and spent time during his teenage years at his beloved Point Michaud. In his youth, Len enjoyed sports, mostly hockey and baseball but his real passion was fly fishing, at which he excelled. It was growing up in a large family that provided Len his humility, inner strength, kindness, resilience and sense of humour. Len worked his entire career in the coal mining industry of New Waterford and area, fulfilling many roles, and being a much-trusted co-worker and friend.

Len and Gladys (Murrant, deceased in 2019) were married on August 18, 1952 and began a family that would be their total focus for the rest of their lives. Together they created a home that was filled with much caring, laughter and a true sense of family. Living and raising six children in New Waterford, they also spent many summers and falls in Point Michaud at the cabin. They loved the place as did their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren who continue to gather there for wonderful times, much to Len’s delight.

After retirement Len turned his capable hand to wood working. He could spend hours in his basement workshop making toys, furniture, pictures and much more, that today, can be found in the homes of his children and grandchildren. Len was born a storyteller and this talent continued through his entire life. He could entertain any crowd but particularly enjoyed weaving a tall tale to his grandchildren; although, many an unsuspecting adult fell victim to his fibs and whoppers! Even with impaired eyesight and hearing later in life, Len continued to enjoy following the hockey and baseball seasons. He was an avid gardener and skilled canasta and crib player.

Len is survived by his sister, Winnie Ball; children, Donna Lee Coady (David, deceased), Alan (Cathy Bryan), Lorna (Greg Danchuk), Eva Doell (Brad) and Rhona Reynen (Gord); grandchildren, Jacqueline, Gillian, Mitchell, Len, David, Andrew and Nolan and great grandchildren, Ayanna, Anica, Harrison, Lyla, Braedyn, Harper and Parker. Len was predeceased by his loving wife of 67 years, Gladys and his son, George; brothers, Earl, Ches, Allister, Ed, Norman, Moe; sisters, Belle, Myrtle, Hazel and many nieces and nephews.

The family was most fortunate to have the caring support of Janice Murrant, Gladys’s sister, over the past years; it is greatly appreciated. Many thanks to Dr. Henderson, Angela McDonnell and the Palliative Care team for their outstanding care and attention. Cremation will take place under the direction of Colchester Community Funeral Home, 512 Willow St., Truro. A celebration of life will be held at a later date, followed by burial in Union Grove Cemetery in New Waterford.

Donations may be made to the Nova Scotia SPCA (https://www.novascotiaspca.ca/how-you-canhelp/donate/) or the Schizophrenia Society of Nova Scotia (https://www.ssns.ca/get-involved.html). Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.ColchesterCommunity.com