Jorgen Leffers

Jorgen Leffers passed away peacefully in Woodstock, Ontario on November 4, 2021, in his 96^th year after a full and active life. Loving husband of Elizabeth (Betty) Leffers (nee Wilson) (2021) for 66 years. Dear father of Margaret Leffers (Chris Wilson) and Erin Leffers (Fred MacKinnon). Proud grandfather of Neil and Angela (John). Predeceased by his parents Martin and Margrethe (Lausen) Leffers, and siblings Karen Margrethe (Leffers) Klove, Johannes Leffers and Martin Leffers; survived by his brother Hans Ulrik Leffers, all of Denmark. 

Jorgen grew up in northern Denmark and loved the water from an early age. It was not surprising he chose the Navy for his military service, during which he spent six months on Greenland. He continued to sail off and on until he was 91, then took up kayaking. Jorgen came to Canada at age 25 and quickly landed a job with Crothers Engineering as a tool and diemaker. He went to night school for several years improving his English and technical knowledge. He worked for Arrow-Hart & Hegeman for a number of years and spent the final 27 years of his career at the University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies (UTIAS). The work was interesting and varied, from the early days of upper atmospheric research in the 1960s to trace gas analysis and mass spectrometry research. He was known for his ability to design, build and fix just about anything, both at work and at home. In retirement, Jorgen and Betty moved fulltime to Thornbury. They continued to grow Christmas trees and apples, Scottish Country dance and generally enjoy life, including a number of family trips. Jorgen continued to be very active until a year and half ago when his eyesight failed. He was an eternal optimist who seldom let life get him down.

 Per Jorgen’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no funeral or memorial service will be held. If desired, memorial contributions to the CNIB or a charity of your choice would be appreciated. Online condolences at wareingcremation.com.

Many thanks to the staff of Chartwell Oxford Gardens for being so kind, caring and helpful over the past two years and to the residents for helping make Jorgen’s stay there a pleasant one.