Obituary of Leonard Boreham

It is with profound sadness that the family of Leonard John Robert Boreham announces his passing on July 3, 2026, in St. Marys at the age of 85.

Len was a beloved husband, devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend, who was well known for his jokes and one-liners.

Born in Toronto and then at the age of 13, he was welcomed into the McLean family from St. Marys. Len’s bond with the McLeans became one of the greatest gifts of his life.

Len started his career with the Great Star Flour Mill and later joined The Hitching Post, where he worked until his retirement at the age of 70. Len’s work ethic was second-to-none and he always found joy in helping others.

Len was a dedicated member of the St. Marys Volunteer Fire Department for 30 years, where he formed life-long friendships. His favourite pastimes were lawn bowling, tending to his gardens, bringing Christmas joy to so many as Santa Claus and watching his grandchildren at various sporting events. His love for food was undeniable, and he enjoyed taking his family out to eat regularly. His motto was “I don’t eat to live; I live to eat.”

Len is survived by his wife of 60 years, Margaret (Maggie) and his sons Robert (Connie), Paul (Tara), Brian (Cassandra), and his grandchildren Courtney, Brandon, Brent, Alicia, Victoria, Blake, Kirk, Wil, Grayson, and his great-grandchildren Bailee, Brody, Dalton, Amelia, Coyte-Noah, Lily, and Elora. Also, remembered by his brother-in-law Ron McGuffin and sister-in-law Brenda Boreham.

He is predeceased by his parents Sydney and Jessie, brothers Ron and Jim, brother-in-law Joe White and sisters-in-law Barb Hedberg and Elizabeth (Libby) McGuffin.

Deeply cherished by his adoptive McLean family: Ralph and Violet (both deceased), Lloyd and Helen (both deceased), Bruce and Erma (both deceased), John (deceased) and Marlene, Jean Foster and Earl (deceased), Murray and Lynda (deceased), and Doris Forman and Ray.

Len lived a unique and worthy life. He leaves behind an admirable legacy and will be deeply missed by everyone who loved him.

Visitation will be held at the Andrew L. Hodges Funeral Home, 47 Wellington St. S., St. Marys, on Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of one’s choice.