Obituary of Leonce Joseph Cormier

June 29, 1948 – Upper Dorchester, New Brunswick

July 24, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Leonce “Leo Burke” Cormier, of Calgary, AB, passed away on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at the age of 76 years.

He was born in Upper Dorchester, NB, on June 29, 1948. He was the son of the late Edmond and Bernadette (nee Doucet) Cormier. Leo shared a deep bond with his family. His love for his children, Kathryn and Travis, is where his spirit truly shines through. He was very proud of them and their families. 

He accomplished much throughout his life and was particularly proud of his professional wrestling career, which spanned over five decades. This also included being a mentor and coach to many, making a positive impact on those around him. This brought him to many destinations throughout the Maritimes, Western Canada, United States, Japan, Puerto Rico, New Zealand, and beyond.  Leo was the pride and joy of New Brunswick, and he leaves behind an amazing legacy.  

Leo had a passion for connecting with people, which led him to pursue a bartending career later in life.  His big heart and caring nature were evident in his unmatched kindness and generosity.  He was well known as a prankster, and his contagious laugh could be heard from miles away. Leo also enjoyed playing cards, cooking, and sports. No one dared to interrupt him as he watched his Montreal Canadiens on the big TV, Toronto Blue Jays on his small portable TV, and donned a headset listening to Ed Whelan commentating on the Calgary Flames game. 

Leo will be sadly missed by his family, friends and many fans. He is survived by his son Travis (Chantal) Cormier of Calgary, AB, daughter Kathryn (Ryan) Forbes of High River, AB, two granddaughters, Kaylee (Jadan) Downing of Calgary, AB, and Emma Forbes of High River, AB; sister Marguerite Ranson of Saint John, NB, and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by three sisters, Dorice, Bertha, and Aline; eight brothers, Alyre, Gerald, Malcolm, Francis, Yvon, Jean-Louis, Rolando, and Romeo; and brother-in-law Alphie. 

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB) on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at 2:00 pm. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Alzheimer Society of Calgary, 800, 7015 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, AB, T2H 2K6, Telephone: (403)290-0110, www.alzheimercalgary.com.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Leonce’s family here.

In living memory of Leonce Cormier, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.