Leonard Litz was born on September 23, 1939, in Elnora, Alberta, and completed his journey on August 11, 2025, in Olds, Alberta, at the age of 85. The beloved son of Bernard and Pauline Litz, Len spent his early childhood in the Pine Lake area before attending school in Hogadone, Wimborne, and Torrington.

At about nine years old, Len's life was brightened by Fido, a German Shepherd puppy his father brought home. With a harness his father built, Len and Fido could be seen racing across snowy fields on winter mornings, making the trip to school an adventure in itself.

In January 1960, Len married Joan Adams in the Olds United Church. Together they welcomed three children—Ronald Dale, Sandra Ann, and Debora Lynn. Their joy was tempered by loss when Ronnie passed away at just six months old.

Len's work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit were the cornerstones of his life. He began his career with the MD of Kneehill as a grader and loader operator, later becoming the youngest councillor for Division Six at that time. Over the years, he built a number of successful businesses, including Westside Trucking, Westside Anchors, Wimborne Stock Farms, Wimborne Service Center, and Litz Enterprises.

In February 2003, Len married Susan (Whalen) Audenaert, and together they incorporated Westside Trucking into a new venture, Emerald Springs Projects Inc.

Outside of work, Len's zest for life shone through in his love of travel and sports. He enjoyed hockey, curling, skiing, and golf, but baseball held a special place in his heart. Highlights of his athletic career included being part of the 1975 Alberta Fastball Champions and the 2000 Alberta Senior Slow-Pitch Champions. Even at age 75, Len was still swinging for the fences—hitting five home runs in his final game.

Len was predeceased by his parents, Bernard and Pauline Litz, and his son Ronnie. He leaves behind his loving wife, Susan Litz; his sister and brother-in-law, Darlene and Don Maetche; daughters and sons-in-law, Sandra and Doug Shier, and Debbie and Bill Dowhun; the mother of his children, Joan Litz; and his grandchildren Adam, Melissa, Josh, and Jennifer Andersen; Kristen and Tyler Ruel, and Evan Shier; and one great-granddaughter Elora Ruel. He is also survived by nephews Kevin and Brennan Maetche; stepchildren Karen Sisson and Michael Larson; and step-grandchildren Mason, Ethan, and Evan Larson, as well as Gavin and Danielle Sisson.

A celebration of Leonard's life will be held on Tuesday, August 19, at 2:00 p.m. at the Wimborne Community Center. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wimborne Community Center.

Leonard's life was one of hard work, deep love for family, and a passion for living fully. Those who knew him will remember the sound of his laughter, his determination to finish what he started, and the joy he found in simple moments. We picture him now—rounding the bases after one last home run, the sun warm on his face, or flying across snowy fields with Fido at his side—forever in motion, forever smiling, forever home.