Leon Nymann "Bad Grampa"

With profound sadness and endless love, we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved father, husband, grandfather, father-in-law, and friend, Leon Nymann — affectionately known to many as Bad Grampa.

Leon was born in Denmark on June 25, 1952, and immigrated to Thunder Bay, Ontario, with his mother, Birthe, around 1962. He was predeceased by his beloved mom and his son-in-law, Curtis Holden (his daughter Candice’s first husband), both of whom he cherished deeply. We take comfort in knowing they are together again.

After his separation from his first wife, Marilyn Lennox (née Godfrey), Leon devoted himself wholeheartedly to raising his two daughters, Candice Holden-Piush (Jeff) and Terra-Dawn Fehr (Derek). He was the best dad – a steady hand, their safe place, and their constant source of laughter. Family was always at the center of Leon’s world — his daughters were his greatest pride and deepest joy. As their families grew, he welcomed Jeff and Derek with open arms, forming strong and lasting bonds built on mutual respect, teasing, and plenty of beer and whiskey. His love for his family was unwavering, and their love for him will always remain just as strong.

Leon retired from Bowater as a Paper Maker. He had a special knack for fixing the machines — a talent that earned him plenty of respect on the floor. Never one to hold back, Leon wasn’t afraid to challenge authority when things didn’t make sense. He let them know, with that unmistakable grin, “A disgruntled Paper Maker doesn’t make good paper.” You tell ’em, Dad!

Leon adored his grandchildren — Chelsea, Ava, Liam, and Matthew — and they adored him right back. His visits were filled with silliness, games, and the excitement of opening one of his famously unique gifts. Between visits, he stayed in close touch and kept everyone laughing — often by sending his grandkids ridiculous videos that became family favourites. Bad Grampa was a title he wore with pride.

Around 1998, Leon found love again when he met Shirley Chabot. They married in 2002 and together built a warm, easy-going, and simple life. Leon helped to raise Shirley’s daughters, Renee Popowich (Matt) and Jessica Busniuk (Josh). As their families grew, he welcomed the opportunity to spend time with the grandchildren from Shirley’s side — Blake, Mickey, and Nash Popowich, and Kaiden, Brody, Blake, and Colton Busniuk.

Leon and Shirley led a quiet, simple life with a small, close circle of friends. A casual dinner out, a few rounds of dice or “horse races” with family and friends, or trying his luck at the casino brought him joy. It didn’t take much to make him happy.

Leon’s lifelong best friend of over 50 years, Chris MacNeil, passed a few short weeks ago - a loss that weighed heavily on him. Their friendship was a true brotherhood, filled with loyalty, laughter, and many adventures. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Chris’s wife, Wendy, as she grieves alongside us.

Though naturally quiet, Leon had a way of lighting up any room when the moment called for it. His easy charm and playful spirit made him the life of the party, and his unique character always shone brightest during celebrations. Whether he was dancing, singing, or simply soaking in the joy around him, Leon embraced every moment to the fullest — and more often than not, he was the last one to shut ’er down. To those who knew him, he wasn’t just part of the fun — he was the fun. He was, and always will be, a Legend.

Leon’s love was steady, his authenticity admirable, and his presence irreplaceable. He was nonjudgmental and generous with everything he had. He always put the needs and happiness of others ahead of his own. His legacy lives on in the family he so deeply cherished, in the stories told around the table, and in the quiet moments that remind us of him.

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you into something else is the greatest accomplishment. What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

A celebration of life will be held for family and close friends in the upcoming weeks.

www.soberingfuneralchapel.com