Leslie Paul BARTLEY

BARTLEY, Leslie Paul, Passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, May 15, 2005 after a courageous battle with cancer in his 52nd year, with his loving wife of 28 years, Glora (nee Rode), his daughter Laura, and son Matt and his fiancee Erica Wylie by his side. Son of William Bartley (deceased) and Margery Whisler (Leon), brother of Bill (deceased), Cathy McCaffery (Dave Carter), Karen Mooy (Ed), Tom, Marilyn Lambert (Jim) and Don (Anna Calbury). Les was a caring son-in-law of Art and Gwen, brothe r-in-law of Dave and Sherron, and Dianne Rode. He also has many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews. Les retired from General Motors in October 2004 with 30 years of dedicated service. He was a Union Representative for most of his career and a member of the CAW Local 199 Executive Board. Les's family was his top priority but his passion was for the game of lacrosse. He was heavily involved at the professional, minor and grass root levels. As a professional coach, Les led his team to 7 c hampionships (Buffalo Bandits, 3; Toronto Rock, 4) in 12 seasons. He also coached Team Canada to the Inaugural World Championship in 2003. Through his coaching accomplishments the NLL has renamed the annual coaching award to bear his name. During his illness, Les lead Team Canada to a Heritage Cup victory and was appointed vice-president and alternate governor of the Toronto Rock. His negotiating skills were integral to the establishment of a new collective bargaining agreement and he was honour ed with the NLL Executive of the Year award for 2004. Les's illness also allowed him to focus efforts on other important causes. Les became involved with Lisa's beads and in conjunction with the NLL and fan support Les's Initiative Fund was establish ed. Currently, the initiative has raised approximately $40,000 for cancer research. As Les requested, cremation has taken place and a private funeral has been held. Donations to Well Spring Niagara or Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary would be appreciated by the family. A special thank you to Dr. Sandra Hartman, Darrell and Merete of St. Elizabeth's for their tender care and compassion not just for Les but for his entire family. Privacy would be appreciated by the family at this time. Arra ngements entrusted to PASSFIELD MORTUARY SERVICES, 905-682-0474. - 5/17/2005 - ID6226687