In Loving Memory of
Leona Mary Andrews
(nee Baker)
age 73
Lovingly remembered by her husband Glen 
and children Rhonda (Randy) Friesen, 
Shawna Andrews, Heather (Luke) McGuire, and 
Harlen (Rachel) Andrews as well as their families.

Passed Away
October 15, 2025
Tri-Lake Health Centre
Killarney, Manitoba

Memorial Service
Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Wheatland Chapel
Killarney, Manitoba
2:00 p.m.

Donations in memory of Leona may be made
 to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of MB 
1379 Kenaston Blvd Winnipeg, MB R3P 2T5 or 
to a charity of one’s choice. 

Leona Mary Andrews, age 73, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025,
surrounded by her loving family.
Born on January 12, 1952, in Brandon Hills, Manitoba, Leona was the fourth of six
children to Vic and Molly Baker. From a young age, she was known for her tenacity and
adventurous spirit—whether synchronized swimming, lifeguarding, or racing cars,
Leona embraced life with courage and zest.
Leona became a mother in 1970 with the birth of her daughter Rhonda, followed by
Shawna in 1972. Together, the three made a home in Brandon, Manitoba.
In 1974, Leona met the love of her life, Glen Andrews. When Glen was offered a
position with Manitoba Hydro in Thompson, he declared he wouldn’t go without Leona
and the girls. She agreed, and off they went, purchasing their first home in the northern
town. It was there that Leona began her career with the Manitoba provincial
government, where she served in various roles until her retirement in 2011. Glen and
Leona were wed on August 6, 1977, in Brandon.
On Leona’s birthday in 1979, they welcomed their daughter Heather. Soon after, the
family relocated to Glen’s family farm in Miami, Manitoba, where their son Harlen was
born in 1980. The final family move was to Elm Creek in 1988.
Leona and Glen were deeply involved in their community and their children’s activities.
Together, the family raised and showed purebred Charolais cattle under the banner of
Miami Glen Charolais. Volunteering was a cornerstone of their lives—they dedicated
time and energy to the local 4-H program, figure skating, and ringette clubs. Leona also
served as a Sunday school teacher for several years. When not supporting their
children’s activities, she and Glen enjoyed curling with friends.
In 1998, as their children grew up and moved out, Leona and Glen relocated to
Winnipeg for Leona’s new role with the province. Their cozy yard became a cherished
retreat, with vibrant flowers admired by many. During this time, Leona began fundraising
for the Heart and Stroke Foundation—a cause close to her heart.
Leona was a gifted artist and craftsperson. Her creative spirit found expression in many
hobbies, such as cake decorating, jewelry making, rock tumbling, and sewing. Her
painting talents brought Glen’s handcrafted wooden toys to life, and together they
founded Memory Lane Toys in the 1990s. In retirement, they rekindled their artistic
partnership through Xylopolist Inc.—a name Leona discovered while watching her
favorite game show, Jeopardy. The term “xylopolist” refers to someone who sells or
works with wood, a fitting tribute to their shared passion.

Every summer, the family would take a break from the demands of farm life to go
camping. Leona’s lifelong love of reading found its perfect setting by the campfire or at
the water’s edge, where she’d lose herself in a good book while listening to the haunting
call of loons. Her “Grandma Camp” adventures will be fondly remembered by her
children and grandchildren alike. Once the kids were grown, Leona and Glen traded tent
life for a camper, traveling across Canada to sightsee and visit loved ones.
When Harlen chose to pursue farm life in the Dunrea area, Leona and Glen found the
perfect place to retire in nearby Killarney. Their new home allowed them to stay close to
the farm and remain connected to the rural lifestyle they cherished, while also enjoying
the serenity of lake life in town—a balance that brought them great joy in their later
years.
Leona leaves behind her best friend and beloved husband of 48 years, Glen Andrews;
her children: Rhonda (Randy) Friesen, Shawna Andrews, Heather (Luke) McGuire, and
Harlen (Rachel) Andrews; ten grandchildren: Ashley (Matt), Jessica (Josh), Kira, Austen
(Brooke), Kaeden, Lina, Emmett, Lily, James, and Molly; and six great-grandchildren:
Dustin, Sierra, Abby, Vivian, Ayda, and Creed.
Her legacy of love, creativity, and resilience lives on in the hearts of all who knew her.