She passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025 in Lindsay, Ontario. She lived a most remarkable life. Born March 1, 1944, in Annapolis County, Nova Scotia, Brenda was raised on a mountain farmstead by loving grandparents Jessie (Hoffman) and Stanley Robar. Brenda showed her depth of compassion and generosity of spirit at an early age, nursing injured wildlife and caring for farm animals while helping with chores. She also cared for her grandparents until their passing. A young Brenda studied nursing at Children’s Hospital in Halifax, and while living there she met Dolor LeBlanc. The two married on June 18, 1966, moving to Ontario to start a life together. With her quick smile and open heart, Brenda made friends everywhere she went; she kept her friends close and carried those friendships for decades. At work, Brenda brought light and spark. From the early days of mailing out books for a publisher or as reception at a furniture store, to working as a care aid at a nursing home or cleaning for ‘her families’. Brenda was well respected for her strong work ethic and amicable nature.
Brenda welcomed their first child Denise in 1970, followed by Jeannette three years later. A devoted wife and caring mom, Brenda was also exceptionally creative – gardening and canning for the family each season, learning oil painting, and sewing matching outfits for her daughters. Brenda often spoke about the profound impact her grandparents had on shaping her sense of self, instilling a fierce independence, and sharing a love of family. She passed these gifts on to her children. Brenda found joy in nature, music, art, and spending time with family and friends.
Brenda will be deeply missed by her husband Del, daughters Denise (Kevin) and Jeannette, grandchildren Ryan and Madeleine, numerous extended family members, and many dear friends.
Brenda’s family would like to thank the staff at Caressant Care Nursing Home on Mary Street in Lindsay for their gentleness and compassion over the last several years as Brenda navigated advanced dementia. Your support of and care for this beautiful person has been greatly appreciated.
A celebration of life will be held in the spring, with details to follow. For anyone who would like to share a fond memory, the family invites you to send your joyful stories of Brenda to askjleblanc@gmail.com. These will be shared later at the celebration.
Those who loved this remarkable woman have also experienced the depth of her love in return. May you carry Brenda’s love with you through the days, weeks, and years to come.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Brenda’s name to Community Care Foundation, City of Kawartha Lakes – a not-for-profit society supporting independence and enhancing quality of life for people in need.
