It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Leonard Eric Eckberg on August 27, 2025, at the age of 71. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on May 13, 1954, to Lenore Ann Eckberg (92) and the late Alfred Martin Eckberg. Leonard’s life was one of quiet dedication, expertise, and adaptability.
The son of a Royal Canadian Air Force specialist, Leonard’s childhood was spent moving across Canada before his family settled in Edmonton, where he graduated from M.E. LaZerte High School. After a formative period in the Royal Canadian Air Force, he pursued his passion for the natural world at the University of Alberta, earning a Bachelor of Science.
Leonard’s distinguished career as an arborist and horticulturalist began in Alberta, with roles at the Muttart Conservatory and as an aerial observer for the Alberta Forestry Services. In the early 1990s he moved to British Columbia, where he became the Municipal Arborist for the City of Victoria. As a steward of the city’s urban forests, he was instrumental in the care of its famous cherry blossom trees. His expertise was recognized in 1995 with the prestigious Municipal Arborist Award from the Pacific Northwest International Society of Arboriculture. His career later included curating the grounds of the splendid Villa Madrona estate and managing the landscape at Cedar Creek Estate Winery in Kelowna.
Leonard was a steadfast and loyal companion, sharing over 36 years with his life partner, Deana “Dee” Hardy, until her passing in May of 2025. He is survived by his brother, Grant Martin Eckberg and his Mother Lenore Ann Eckberg. Leonard’s legacy is written in the landscapes he nurtured and in the memories of those who knew his unique blend of scientific intellect, quiet strength, and his love of learning. He will be deeply missed.
The family has requested that no unauthorized or reproduction of this obituary is to be made (Le Necrologue or Echovita).
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Laura Dixon
Our heartfelt condolences to you Grant and your Mom, Lenore.
I met Lenonard at Balwin Jr. High after moving to Edmonton from PEI.
Curt and I met Leonard at M.E. LaZerte where we and most of the Balwin Jr. High School kids attended. I lost touch with him when Curt and I married and moved north. We caught up with Leonard when we were back in Edmonton but didn’t stay in touch.
Curt and I spent, and still do spend, a lot of time on Vancouver Island. How lovely for him and his life partner to have lived in such a beautiful place.
kdwerstiuk@hotmail.com
Just heard about Leonard’s passing from my sister Kathy Sproule. Leonard and Grant were a lovely part of my 2 sisters and I when we were young. Never forget the fun wehad driving to the beach and driving Len and Grant’s dad crazy in the car. We all lost touch when their family moved out of Manitoba. Kathy, Kris, and I,KarenWerstiuk nee McCharles were very proud of our Cousin’s accomplishments and love of nature. Our condolences to his Mom Lenore and brother Grant! ❤️