Royal Canadian Mounted Police Chief Superintendent (Ret’d)
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather at the age of 84 in Ottawa on July 10th, 2020 following a short, valiant battle with vasculitis. Les is survived by and will forever be missed by his wife Marilyn, daughter Shawn (Stephen Olsthoorn) (California), son Scott (Lisette) (Calgary, AB), grandchildren Danielle (Vancouver, BC), Brett (Wolfville, NS), Max and Scott (California). He was predeceased by his parents Otto and Bess Bittner and his brother Melvin. He is survived by his sister Viola (Saskatoon, SK), niece, and nephews.
Born in Leask, SK March 7th, 1936, Les was a gifted athlete winning Provincial Championships in track and baseball. He played Major Junior hockey in Prince Albert for two years before joining the RCMP in 1956. In 1957, Les met the love of his life, Lyn, and the two were married in Calgary and recently celebrated 60 wonderful, loving years together. Les worked on Highway Patrol in Calgary and Fort MacLeod before being transferred to Red Deer. In 1966, he transferred to Depot as an Instructor and also earned his Bachelor’s of Education at the University of Saskatchewan. Following graduation, Les transferred to Ottawa to work in the RCMP Training Branch and continued his education at Carleton University, earning his Master in Psychology. Les went on to serve as the RCMP Psychologist for five years, then becoming Officer in Charge of Training for Security Service before transferring to “N” Division. In 1985, he transferred to the Training Academy in Regina where he served as the A & P Officer. Two years later, Les returned to Ottawa, serving as Officer in Charge of Dwyer Hill Training Centre, where the Canadian Anti Terrorist Team trained.
Les retired in 1993 and spent much of his time traveling and enjoying his many talents. He made rocking horses, violins, and duck carvings, and continued to play hockey well into his 70’s. Both he and Lyn went on many bike trips through Europe, played golf, skated, skied, and lovingly restored their historic home. He recently discovered his long lost love for pool.
On this sad day, Les’ beloved family grieve his passing and remember a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather who filled our lives with inspiration and so many beautiful memories.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Vasculitis Foundation Canada, or to a charity of your choice.
Les and I worked together in training. Les was a true gentleman. Dawn and I are deeply saddened to learn of his passing and extend our condolences to Lyn and family.