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.
Livre de visiteurs
Ron and Barb Welke
Joe Hrankowski
Saddened to hear of Les’s passing. He and I worked together in Security Service. A very good man. RIP Les
Patricia Turnbull
Lynn I was shocked and saddened to learn of Les’s passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to your and your family. I have been reminded of some of the tomes we spent together as couples and have smiled at the memories. Stay close as a family. Share the memories and know that his spirit lives on in your children and grandchildren.
Dave and Paula McCormick
Les and I first met in the early seventies and were promoted Sgts. on the same list, and both worked for several years in HQ “A” Dir. and had some great trips with the Dunthornes and the RCMP Ski Club. We are so shocked and sorry to hear of Les’s untimely passing. Our condolences to Lyn and family. May yout good memories help you in your loss. Dave and Paula.
Cal and Barb Craig
Lynn and the Family: We are very sorry for your loss. He was a great guy!
Alistair Hensler
On behalf of the RCMP Retired Officers Club Ottawa I extend sincere sympathy and condolences to Lyn and family.
Scott and Lisette Bittner
Dad, You will be dearly missed by all.
Roy Hill
Condolences to family members. Les was my typing instructor in 1968.
Jim and Gladys Walker
Lyn and Family,
Gladys and I were very saddened to hear the news that Les had passed away. We had many years of a shared and warm friendship working together at the Canadian Police College. There are so many fond memories of our various, as well as numerous, social activities over the years.
Please accept our sincere condolences and deepest sympathy for you and your families loss.
Jim & Gladys Walker
Pat Gates (old friend of Scott’s)
My condolences Scott to you and your family.
We are so very shocked and saddened to learn of Les's passing. I enjoyed the years that we worked together and it was a pleasure to share time together at the Retired Officers Club get togethers. Our deepest and sincere sympathy to you Lyn and your whole family.