Born: Jun 15, 1946
Joined OFD: Sep 01, 1967
Retired:
Died: May 31, 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Leo Philippe, a dedicated firefighter and beloved spouse, stepfather, brother, and grandfather from Ottawa, Ontario. Leo passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on May 31, 2024.
Born in 1946, Leo was known for his unwavering commitment to his community and his exceptional service as a firefighter captain. Throughout his distinguished career, like his spirit animal – the lion, Leo displayed unyielding bravery and remarkable strength. In putting the safety and well-being of others first, he saved numerous lives both by entering raging fires to rescue others, and by frequently donating blood.
Beyond his professional achievements, Leo was an avid golfer and an enthusiastic scuba diver, passions that brought him joy and adventure. His wonderful sense of humour and zest for life were evident to all who knew him. Leo’s life was a testament to courage, kindness, and the joy of bringing smiles to others. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched through his service and his personal connections.
Leo and his wife Mary Callahan enjoyed 33 years of marriage in their “backyard paradise” in Aylmer, Quebec, before Mary’s passing in December 2022. They loved travelling to warm destinations, spending time with friends, and sharing meals with their family at Casa Grecque, and in later years, Mandarin. They revelled in the simple pleasures of lounging alongside their pool or walking on the beach.
Leo was predeceased by his parents, Arthur Philippe and Florence Parent.
He will be dearly missed by his sister, Pauline Birmingham (Kevin), his brother, Arthur Philippe (Wanda), his brother Dave Philippe (Diane) and many nieces and nephews who always looked forward to Leo’s sense of humour and magic personality at family functions.
Leo's family extended through his stepchildren, Howard Bishop (Meredith), Jaime Bishop (Andrew), and Mary Suen (Pedro), who loved him dearly and each of whom held a special place in his heart. His grandchildren, Emelia Frank and Joshua Frank, brought him such joy and pride. Leo had a unique talent for making his grandchildren laugh, often with the help of his signature red foam nose. Leo and Mary loved attending their grandchildren’s birthday parties and sharing in the “family secret” chocolate cake, always with some extra to go. Even with their health challenges in later years, they attended every dance recital, with flowers for their granddaughter always in hand.
Leo’s family is ever grateful for the devoted care and companionship received from Carol and Ewa from My Place Homecare, and the excellent care provided by the staff at the Foyer du Bonheur.
A celebration of Leo's life will be held on Tuesday June 25, 2024 at the Gatineau Golf and Country Club, located at 160, rue du Golf, Gatineau (Aylmer), at 11:00 am (lunch will also be served). Friends are invited to say a few words during the event should they so wish, and to please advise Dave Philippe in advance at Davephilippe9801@gmail.com if so. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Alzheimer Society, in honor of Leo's commitment to helping others.
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