LEO JAMES CEY

Leo James Cey, beloved Husband, Father, Brother, Uncle and Friend, passed away on December 26, 2020, after a short but valiant battle. He was fortunate to enjoy good health until that time, which he attributed to his faith, a lifetime of home-cooked meals served with love, and his calm and peaceful manner.

Leo was born on June 16, 1930 to Bruno and Susan Cey in Scott, Saskatchewan. It was here that he discovered his love of nature, farming and family. Many hours were spent with his dear brother Bill, where they perfected the songs of the birds and the sounds of the great outdoors as they worked, and honed their hard work ethic. Throughout his life, Leo would treasure the sight and sound of all birds, memories of a highly valued youth.

Although he truly loved the land, Leo attended Normal School, and graduated with his Bachelor of Education degree, of which he was very proud. On July 27, 1954, He married the love of his life, Mary Schwebius; they enjoyed 66 years together. He cherished her until his last breath. To see them together would make your heart melt; they were true sweethearts. Leo would teach in several small Saskatchewan communities, Lloydminster and spent the majority of his teaching career in Edmonton. He took on many roles from classroom teacher, Vice-Principal, Principal and Phys. Ed Director. He was passionate about science, literature and math, and enjoyed his students, and the wonderful summer vacations that came with his profession.

Each spring, Leo would garden, and appreciated every living thing that sprouted from the ground, but especially loved his potatoes and tomatoes. He was able to purchase a small farm near Chipman, Alberta, and there he fulfilled his dream of being a landowner and part-time farmer. During the winter, he cheered hard for the best hockey team, the Edmonton Oilers. Leo loved all sports, and would often be seen with a small radio against his ear, listening to the game. He told his family, if you close your eyes, it’s like you’re right there, a skill he attributed to growing up in the 1930’s. Leo was humble, kind, and had a generous nature. In earlier years, Leo and Mary enjoyed curling together. He also spent time on the golf course, often with his brother Bob. Leo had many godchildren, nieces and nephews and always had time for them, from a young age until his final days. He felt so very blessed in the presence of family.

Leo and Mary spent many years living in Ardrossan and Sherwood Park, Alberta. He treasured time with his children and was the best kind of father, always looking for outdoor activities, taking time for a game of crib or reading aloud to them. The sound of his voice was often heard reading newspaper articles, books and passages from the Bible. His teaching skills followed him far outside the classroom. At the gentle encouragement of family, Leo and Mary made their final retirement location in Wilkie, Saskatchewan. Here, they enjoyed almost daily card games, drop-in company and the opportunity to share coffee, treats and conversations with those that meant so much to them.

Leo is survived by his devoted wife, Mary, and children, Joanne Cey and Maureen (Kelly) DieBold and granddaughters Andrea, Dakota and Kayla. He is also survived by brothers Bill Cey, Don (Caroline) Cey, George (Thelma) Cey, Bob Cey, sister Joan Fischer and sister-in-law Cheryl Cey. He is predeceased by his parents Bruno and Susan Cey, and siblings: Pauline (Charlie) Schwebius, John (Helen) Cey, sister-in-law Ethel Cey, Teo (Joe) Keller, Bruno (Margaret) Cey, Bernie (Magdalene) Cey, brother-in-law Pius Fischer, and his infant brother Martin Cey. A celebration of Leo’s life will take place at St. James Roman Catholic Church, in Wilkie, Saskatchewan, on Saturday January 2nd, 2021.The Rosary will be led at 1:30 pm, prior to the Mass of Christian Burial at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow.

Leo’s family would like to thank all those who offered their thoughts and prayers during his short illness. Through his last years, his life was greatly enhanced through the love and support given by goddaughter Marion Schell and his dear driver, Karen Johnson. His path to peace was guided by his angel, Kathy Miller. The staff at Poplar Courts have been amazing and we are so very grateful for all of the exceptional ways you cared for him. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you perform a conscious act of kindness or offer a donation to the Wilkie Health Foundation, Poplar Courts Activities or Masses.

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