Obituary of Gail Dawn Leet

GAIL DAWN LEET

1944-2025

After a long battle with cancer, Gail passed away peacefully with family by her side on May 20, 2025, at Markham Stouffville Hospital at the age of 80. Predeceased by her Father, Robert Joffre Leet; Mother, Frances Joyce Leet; and lifelong friend and companion, Jean Watson. Survived by her Sister, Janice Leet; her only remaining relative in England, Janet Welburn; and many cousins and friends. Gail was born in Northampton, England and at six months old came to Canada by boat with her mother, first settling in the Lachine/Montreal area, then moving to the greater Toronto area, before settling in Markham in 1977. A former IT professional with a successful career at the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and as a technology enthusiast. Gail was also an advocate for seniors. In her capacity as a volunteer for the Markham Seniors’ Activity Centre, Gail taught seniors basic computer skills and helped build the centre’s network and computer systems. She was also a member and Chair of the City of Markham’s Seniors’ Hall of Fame, member and Chair of the Seniors’ Advisory Committee, volunteer and business manager for the Seniors Extravaganza for 10 years, and many more volunteer positions within the community. In late 2022, Gail was honoured with a Platinum Jubilee Community Award for her extraordinary contributions to the Markham-Stouffville community. Most recently, Gail was a founding member of Making Markham Age Friendly Group, advocating for affordable and accessible housing for seniors and others in need, and a strong proponent for a residential hospice in Markham. Gail was also an avid photographer, volunteering for snapd Markham, covering many local events and contributing thoughtful photos and articles, and documenting the many travel adventures she enjoyed with Jean. She loved sports, was a former hockey goalie and avid Habs and Raptors fan. Special thanks to the staff at Markham Stouffville hospital for their compassionate care. A Celebration of Life will be held at Dixon-Garland Funeral Home, 166 Main St. Markham N, Markham on Tuesday June 17 from 4-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the CNIB Guide Dog Program or War Amps of Canada.