Leuba Sonia Franko (née Daniels) passed away quietly on January 28th, 2021 after three weeks in hospital at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg.  Because of the pandemic restrictions she was surrounded by the letters, flowers, and phone calls only, as well as good wishes from friends and family.  We are deeply grateful for the care she received from the nurses, doctors, social workers, occupational therapists, bedside attendants, and from Gerard and other members of the Old Grace Coop who tended to her before she was admitted.

 

Born in Canora, Saskatchewan in 1940, Leuba loved swimming at the family cottage, singing and playing piano.  Later, she studied at the University of Saskatchewan and became an English teacher with an emphasis on drama and Canadian literature.  She will be remembered for her teacher’s companion guide George Orwell’s “1984", and for editing “The Immigrant Experience”.

 

After retiring, Leuba took up the art of Ikebana, and enjoyed showcasing her flower arrangements.  She was active in the cultural life of her community, celebrating grass roots theatre, poetry and art.  She continued to enjoy singing in choirs and also with the Raging Grannies.  Leuba was honoured to be chosen as a lay pastor within the Unitarian Church, and participated in many social activities. Leuba was a bright light in people’s lives - a sparkle, and had a creative imagination towards projects.

 

Leuba is survived by her children Monica (Sharon) and Marshall (Wendy), her brother Douglas, her two grandchildren Nathalie and Alexandra and their mother Kathy, her nieces Debbie and Dana and nephew Kent (Heather), many cousins, colleagues, and friends.  She is predeceased by her brother Eugene (Sue).

 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Winnipeg Harvest, for whom she wrote the “Food Bank Mystery”.

 

In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place.  Due to covid restrictions, plans for a memorial service are yet to be determined.