Leslie Vernon Jantz
October 26th, 2017
Leslie Vernon Jantz, surrounded by family, passed away peacefully on the evening of October 26, 2017.
Leslie was born in Drake, SK in 1923 to Peter and Annie Jantz. His childhood and youth were spent on the family farm and involved in the community. There he learned many practical skills that were useful throughout his life.
When he was 20, he accepted Jesus as his Saviour and that put him on a path to follow and serve Jesus for the rest of his life. Following Bible School training he joined the Unevangelized Fields Mission (presently Crossworld) working in the lower Amazon region of Brazil. In 1951, while studying Portuguese, he met Anita McPherson who would become his wife and lifelong partner. Over the years they did a variety of ministries including church planting, teaching in a Bible School and administration work for the mission. Dad loved teaching, preaching and encouraging others in their faith. In 1991 they retired to Langley BC where they continued to serve others in their community, as well as minister at New West Community Church.
Dad was an example of a man who lived out his faith with wisdom, a smile and sense of humor, generously giving of time, talent and finances. Our family experienced his unconditional love and support throughout the years. He was a diligent worker in everything that he did. Countless lives were touched by his integrity, kindness and servant heart.
He was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Annie Jantz; his sister, Vera (Isaac) Redekop; and a newborn daughter. He is survived by his wife of 65 years Anita; three children Timothy (Dorette), Paul (Ivani), Priscilla (John); 9 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren; brother LaVerne (Lorna) Jantz. His loving example and daily prayers will be sadly missed by each family member, but special memories will be treasured in our hearts.
We want to send our condolences to Anita and all her family at this time. Even though we can rejoice that Les is now in his eternal home, we will miss him here at Southwind Estates. We loved having the Jantz's as neighbours. We loved seeing Les out in the yard working, he walked fast and always had a smile and kind word for anyone who stopped to chat. We are thankful that his pain here on earth is gone and that he is now with Jesus. We will see him again!