George Louis Leskovec passed away peacefully in Hamilton, Ontario, on February 1, 2026, at the age of 75.
George was the beloved husband of Marion (nee Vella), with whom he shared 50 years of marriage. They celebrated their golden anniversary this past October, a milestone that reflected a lifetime of love, partnership, and unwavering devotion.
He was a devoted and proud father to Michael (Tamara), Daniel (Heather), and Paul (Melissa), and a deeply loving Poppi (Grandfather) to Ellasandra, Elias, Cameron, Ruby May, Layla, Isaac, and Isabella. George is also survived by his cherished sisters, Sylvia (Alan) and Toni (Larry), with whom he shared a close and lasting bond. He was predeceased by his loving mother, Christine (Tina) Leskovec, with whom he shared a deep and beautiful bond, and his father, Bozidar (Darko) Leskovec.
Born and raised in Hamilton, George lived a life rooted in family, service, and faith. In his early years, he served in the Army Reserves, an experience that instilled in him a diligence that stayed with him his entire life. A man of strong belief in God and deep devotion to the Catholic Church, his faith guided the way he lived, loved, and cared for others.
George spent the first half of his career as a Coordinator at Camco on the appliance packaging line. When the company was sold, he showed incredible resilience by retooling midlife—returning to school to become an Educational Assistant at Bishop Ryan High School. He was deeply passionate about this second chapter, becoming known for his patience, humour, and the genuine bonds he formed with "his kids" in the classroom. A quirk of his long career was his lifetime appliance discount; George was famously known for offering it to almost anyone he met within the first few minutes of conversation—a family joke that simply spoke to his inherent desire to help.
George embraced life with enthusiasm and heart. He had a passion for coaching basketball and mentoring young athletes, always encouraging confidence, teamwork, and enjoyment of the game. He was an avid sports enthusiast and a masterful card player who loved the banter of a game. Whether it was legendary euchre battles with his sons or acting as "The Oracle" for anyone needing a sharp sports pick, George always had a tip or a fact ready to share.
Music was another great joy in his life. Blessed with a beautiful tenor voice, George shared his gift through many choirs over the years, including the prestigious Bach Elgar Choir. Whether he was performing with a large ensemble or singing for family weddings and milestones, his voice brought comfort and inspiration to those who heard him. An avid golfer, he was well known for his ever-expanding collection of golf gadgets, always eager to try the next invention that promised a better swing, much to the amusement of those around him.
With his happy-go-lucky spirit and outgoing personality, George had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome and at ease. He approached life with optimism, humour, and generosity, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Hamilton Health Sciences—specifically the teams at Juravinski Hospital, Hamilton General Hospital, and St. Peter’s Hospital—as well as the staff at Joseph Brant Hospital and Summit Heights. The wonderful care and compassion George received during his time with them will never be forgotten.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Bay Gardens Funeral Home, 947 Rymal Road East, Hamilton, Ontario, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The Funeral Service will take place on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 305 East 37th Street, Hamilton, Ontario. A reception and lunch will follow at Bay Gardens Funeral Home.
George will be lovingly remembered for his kind heart, joyful spirit, strong faith, and deep devotion to family and community. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the love he shared so freely.
In-memory donations can be made to the Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation in support of the Juravinski Hospital.