DR. LEROY RAYMOND McKENZIE of Lethbridge passed away in the Lethbridge Regional Hospital on Thursday, April 10, 2003, at the age of 78 years.
Leroy was born in Detroit Michigan on October 13, 1924 to William Bernard and Ellen Jane McKenzie.
He was the youngest of 10 children. He graduated from the University of Western Ontario with a BA in History and Honors Philosophy; he received his B.D. from St. Augustine's, Toronto and his MA in English from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, followed by his Ph.D in English from the University of Ottawa. He taught for a time at Gonzaga University, then Notre Dame University in Nelson, B.C. In 1968 he joined the University of Lethbridge as an associate professor of English until his retirement in 1995. During his tenure there he served as chairman of the English department and wrote "The Opening Line of Paradise Lost".
Leroy was actively involved in the community. He served as chairman of the Lethbridge Regional Mental Health Council, and was joint choir director for St. Patrick's and Assumption churches. He also was a guest speaker at the Young Offenders Centre, and was the secretary for Alcoholics Anonymous chapter house.
A devote Roman Catholic, Leroy served 21 years in the capacity of Priest in Nelson B.C. and in Lethbridge at St. Basil's Church until his marriage to Gail Cunningham in 1971. A great public speaker with a love of ideas and debates Leroy was also a teacher who passionately strived to give students the very best education. His teaching style was enjoyed by his many students and his Children's Literature courses were always popular. He took great pride in helping people achieve their highest potential.
Leroy immensely enjoyed cooking (always trying a new recipe), walking, movies, literature, a good cup of tea and loved to be in the company of his friends and family.
Dr. Leroy McKenzie is survived by his son Jason of Victoria B.C.; one brother William (Odie) and his wife Jean of Windsor, Ontario; numerous nieces, nephews and their families; and his favorite pet, Bill the Cat.
A Funeral Mass was held on Monday, April 14, 2003 at ST. PATRICK'S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 318 - 10 Street, Lethbridge with Father Tim Boyle celebrant.
Those who wish to make a memorial donation in the memory of Dr. Leroy McKenzie may do so to any children's charity of their choice.