Obituary of Leonard Hayward Gaddess
With hearts full of love and sorrow, the family of Leonard Hayward Gaddess announces his passing, surrounded by his loved ones, on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton, NB. Leonard was born on Monday, October 5, 1936, in Minto, NB, the beloved son of the late David and Blanche (Trites) Gaddess.
Leonard’s story is one of love, devotion, resilience, and quiet strength. He is survived by his devoted wife and life partner, Brenda, who shared with him a lifetime of unwavering love. He will forever be remembered by his children Kevin (Debbi), Kendall (Kim), Paul (Tracy), Peter (Laura Lee), and Barb. His joy multiplied through his grandchildren Craig (Audrey), Donnie (Eden), Charles, David (Nicole), Amanda (Parrish), Justin (Amber), Brittany (Colten), Andrew, Matthew (Courtney), Michael, Jonathan, Brittany M. (John), and Cassidy, and through his treasured great-grandchildren Abby, Carter, Duncan, Ben, Rylan, Hallie, Penelope, Naomi, Brynn, Cohen, Bennett, Clark, Koda, Reid, Reece, Rachel, Remy, Cecilia, James, Morgan, Leo, and Jorja. To them, he was not only a grandfather and great-grandfather, but a steady compass, a storyteller, and a source of endless warmth.
In addition to his parents, Leonard was predeceased by his brothers, Raymond (Ann) and Gordon (Jannie), his nephew David, and many cherished extended family members and friends.
Leonard lived his life as a true gentleman, guided by integrity, humility, and determination. He built his life’s work from the ground up, founding and operating Minto Machine and Welding for over 40 years. Through his vision and tireless work, he provided for his family, created opportunities for countless others, and supported his community in countless ways. From sponsoring local sports teams to supporting youth and community initiatives, his generosity and presence touched lives far and wide.
As a Christian, Leonard’s faith was the steady foundation of his life, and he lived it through kindness and generosity. He found joy and purpose in supporting his own church and was always willing to reach out and help other congregations as well, leaving a quiet but lasting mark of love and service in his community.
A man of many talents and passions, Leonard found his greatest peace in the outdoors. An avid hunter and brook trout fisherman, he felt at home in the woods and waters of New Brunswick. In later years, he even crafted his own canoe; solid, beautiful, and a true reflection of his character. Alongside his love of nature, Leonard also carried a deep passion for racing. Stock car racing became one of the greatest joys of his life, where he poured his heart into building and working on the cars, leading his own team with pride and determination. The track was where his spirit came alive, and he cherished every moment of the sport, especially those shared with his family at Speedway 660.
What Leonard mastered most, however, was the art of family. Some of his happiest moments were spent on Sunnyside Beach, watching children play, sharing stories, and hosting lobster boils. He delighted in family gatherings, where laughter and love filled the air. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the lights of his life, and he found his greatest joy in their presence.
Leonard lived with resilience and humility, meeting life’s challenges with quiet strength. He was always the same on the inside as he appeared on the outside; honest, steadfast, and true. His favourite color was blue, and his striking blue eyes reflected both his kindness and his strength. His deepest legacy lies not only in the business he built or the community he supported, but in the values he instilled in his family; hard work, honesty, resilience, and love.
Leonard’s life came full circle with the grace and dignity that defined him. His was a life well-lived and well-loved, a life that will forever inspire those who had the privilege to know him. Though his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit will continue to guide his family and community, carried on in every story shared, every lesson remembered, and every moment of love.
For those who wish to honor Leonard’s memory through donations; his family requests, as per his wishes, contributions be directed to the United Baptist Church of Minto – Chair Fund. The family is truly grateful for the thoughtfulness and support during this time.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 from 2-4PM and 6-8PM at the United Baptist Church of Minto (124 Pleasant Drive, Minto); from where Funeral Service will take place 2:00PM Thursday October 2, 2025, with reception to follow within the church hall. Interment will take place at the United Baptist Cemetery, Minto, NB.