Leonard George KUTZ

Lovingly surrounded by family, Leonard George Kutz completed his life journey on May 27, 2025 at the age of 95.

Born on March 28, 1930 in Elrose, Saskatchewan to John and Leah Kutz, Elrose was home for Leonard.  He attended grades 1-12 in Elrose and after graduating high school worked on the family farm. Helen and Leonard, high school sweethearts, were married in 1952, eventually settling on the family farm and raising their 7 children. Leonard farmed for over 50 years and, alongside his son John, expanded the farm that is now operated by his grandsons Jordan and Blayne. In addition to farming, Leonard cofounded and operated K & L Construction from the mid 1960’s to the late 1970’s, constructing numerous buildings across central and southern Saskatchewan. His work ethic, wisdom, and kindness made him a mentor and role model to many. 

In 2018, Helen and Leonard moved to Saskatoon to Trinity Manor. Leonard spent hours in the wood working shop making cutting boards, quonsets, doll houses, cribs, bowls and any requests from other residents and family. They were at home there, making new friends and reconnecting with old.  

Having a strong sense of community, Leonard was very active in many initiatives and organizations and chaired many boards and committees in the Elrose area. He was honored to be named a lifetime member of the Elrose Lions Club and the Knights of Columbus. Leonard was always ready with his tools - whether for a community building project or to lend a hand to friends and family.

 Family mattered most in Leonard and Helen’s life and their greatest joy was being present for those they loved. Leonard was often seen on the sidelines of his children’s and grandchildren’s activities, teaching the next generation the fine art of woodworking, building or renovating houses, fishing at Besnard Lake, playing games and never missing a wedding, baptism or graduation. His family always had his blessing in all endeavors they undertook. Helen and Leonard organized memorable family adventures including trips to Kananaskis, West Edmonton Mall and an unforgettable bus journey to Disneyland.

Leonard will be remembered for his strong and unwavering love for Helen and their family, his deep sense of faith and generous spirit, donation of his time and resources to many charities, his quick sense of humour and his warm hospitality - always ready to offer a drink and share a laugh.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 72 years Helen, his children Mary Ann (Ken) Hamilton, Jackie (Doug) Shaw, Audrey (Lorrie) Reed, Joan (Michael) McDonald, Louise (Duncan) Campbell, Marilyn (Dave) Martin and his daughter-in-law Sharon Kutz. His legacy will live on in his 25 surviving grandchildren (and spouses) and 59 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents John and Leah Kutz; siblings Guy Kutz, Ken Kutz, Mae Newans; his son John Kutz, grandchildren Russell Hamilton, Diana Campbell and Abbie Speir.

Leonard was the family’s rock and protector who will now guide and watch over us from the heavens above while holding the hands of those we have lost.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Hospice of Glengarda for their care in dad’s final days. 

A Celebration of Leonard’s Life was held on Monday, June 2, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at the Elrose Memorial Hall. A video of the service is available to watch at https://boxcast.tv/view/leonard-kutz-funeral-mass-and-celebration-of-life-x6nbg7sz8uzaa7hap3wu

Donations in memory of Leonard can be made to the Elrose Brick School Preservation Committee or the Elrose Uniplex.