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BARTA, Leslie – It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our Dad, Grandpa and Great-Grandpa. Surrounded by the love of his family, Les passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 7, 2013 at 86 years of age.

He leaves us to join his beloved wife Albina “Beanie”; daughter Leslie Ann; parents Joseph and Veronica; and sister Veronica (Andy). Les is survived and will be lovingly remembered by his children Veronica (Ralph) and Michael (Dana); grandchildren Amara, Sanaya, Lindy and Sean; great-grandson Marshall; siblings Betty, Barb (Henry), Frank, and Joe (Linda); as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends. He will also be missed by his special friend and travelling companion, Frances Doherty.

Dad was born in Romania on June 14, 1926. He came to Canada as a young child and grew up on a farm in Spiritwood, Saskatchewan. At the age of 15, he left for Alberta to work as a heavy equipment operator. After a year in the armed forces, he returned and worked in Prince George, Vancouver and Edmonton before settling in Trail in January of 1952. He married Albina Daniel on May 24, 1952 and they raised three children. Dad worked for the City of Trail for 36 years, operating heavy equipment and later as a transit bus driver. He was instrumental in developing and grading the runway at the Waneta airport and building the rock walls, ball parks and roads in the City of Trail, Village of Montrose and surrounding areas. An incredibly talented grader operator, his skills were evident in the forming and sculpturing of the Birchbank Golf Course. Dad was meticulous and took pride in everything he did, from his work, to his yard to how he cared for his “fleet.” He believed in good, honest work and instilled these values in his children and grandchildren.

Anyone who knew Les would tell you that his main passion in life was travelling. He and Mom travelled throughout Canada and up to Alaska by truck, camper and trailer until Mom’s passing in 1997. Dad continued to travel, covering hundreds of miles across the country, right up until the summer of 2012. As skilled as ever, he was very proud to tell you that at the age of 86, he had his driver’s license renewed for “five more years.” Dad’s pride and joy was his motorhome. He had searched his entire life for that perfect one, and finally found and bought it – at the age of 85. He had two great summers travelling with it. Dad was a proud 51-year member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #11.

To commemorate his long-time membership, and to celebrate his life, the Funeral Service will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #11, 2141 Columbia Avenue, Trail, BC on Friday, February 15, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. Dad will be laid to rest next to Mom in the Fruitvale Memorial Cemetery. A private family interment will take place. Jordan Wren of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services™ has been entrusted with arrangements.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Les may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #11, 2141 Columbia Avenue, Trail, BC, V1R 1K8.

The family would like express their special thanks to Dr. Behrens, Dr. McCoid and all other doctors, nurses and staff who assisted in his care; as well as nurses Amber and Amy for their excellent, compassionate care of Dad during his final hours. Even though we will miss him dearly, we take comfort in knowing Dad and Mom are continuing their travels together.

You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence at the family’s online register at www.myalternatives.ca

All Veterans, Ladies Auxiliary and Legion Members, please attend.



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