September 25, 1949 - September 2, 2024
The family of Leif Mjanes wishes to announce his peaceful passing at home in Gibsons, BC.
Leif was a devoted (grand)father, teacher and coach who will be dearly missed by his family and his many friends.
Leif was born in Burnaby, BC, where he attended Burnaby South High School (class of 1967) and Simon Fraser University, where he made lifelong friends on the football field and where he met the love of his life, Nicki. They married in 1971 and moved to the Sunshine Coast, settling in Roberts Creek, where they raised their four children.
For more than 20 years, "MJ" was a beloved teacher and colleague at Chatelech Secondary School in Sechelt, where he taught math, PE and coached many teams. He was a lifelong learner, proudly earning his master's degree from SFU in 1998.
Leif's generous and fun-loving spirit endeared him to many lifelong friends on the Sunshine Coast. He was a dedicated member of the Gibsons Pigs Rugby Club and a proud Creeker.
For the last 30 years of his life, Leif lived with MS, a journey he faced with an incredible spirit, determination and selflessness. In retirement, Leif loved swimming lengths at the Gibsons Pool, catching up with his regular coffee buddies and sharing stories with his favourite audience: his grandkids.
Leif was predeceased by his parents, Olaf and Pearl. He is survived by his brother Earl (Sherron), children Michael (Oana), Erik (Kate), Brett (Lora), and Karin (Blake), and his nine beloved grandchildren. The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Christensen Village and Sechelt Hospital.
A gathering for family and friends will be held in the near future, details to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.
