LEHR, Nathan Samuel, Sgt (Ret’d), MSE Op, RCLS
It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Nathan Lehr (Junior; Nate: Nath), 76, of Pasadena, NL, on January 6, 2024, in St. John’s, NL. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. He was born on February 20th, 1947, in Dark Cove, Gambo, Newfoundland.
Left to celebrate his life are his loving wife of more than 54 years, Donna, and his daughters Lisa and Lana, and son-in-law, Bryce. He will be greatly missed by his siblings Shirley Lehr Gale, Bill (Jean), Benjamin (Miriam), Derek (Cathy), Verna Lehr Hart (Claude) and Rick (Ivy).
Nathan served in the Canadian Armed Forces for thirty-two years, and was a proud veteran and Legionnaire. During his military service he was decorated with many awards and medals.
Following retirement from the military, Nate worked as a Transportation Supervisor for the Sienne River School Division in Manitoba, forming strong relationships, and then returned to his home of Newfoundland to open a Bed and Breakfast with his wife Donna. Their return to the Island created a new life and purpose for Nathan. His commitment to his community and service extended to supervising the Pasadena Youth Center, becoming a member in the Pasadena Lion’s club, and as an elected Pasadena Town Councillor.
Nathan later devoted his life to promoting and protecting the needs of Newfoundland and Labrador veterans. He was the Immediate Past President of Newfoundland and Labrador Command, Royal Canadian Legion; and served as President from 2019-2022. Prior to this he served as the 1st and 2nd Vice President and District Commander of District #5. Nathan also served his local branch, The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #68, in Pasadena as President, Past President, 1st and 2nd Vice President and current position of Service Officer. Nathan was honored to serve the Legion and his fellow comrades and veterans, and represented the honor of Command throughout Covid times, in ceremonies abroad, and in parades at home.
Nathan leaves many vibrant memories for family and friends across Newfoundland and Labrador, throughout Canada, and in many parts of the world. He traveled extensively, loved to meet new people and learn from their cultures, and taste any new food. He always had a fishing rod in the car, loved hunting, and played hockey until his skates wouldn’t lace up any longer. He never met a dog he didn’t love, and his fur-grandbabies were precious to him. His largest pet peeve was rising gas prices, and he would yell about the ‘greedy buggers’ every week. His pranks were renowned by many, yet appreciated by few (of his targets). Every meal he was served was the best he’d had (“not fit!”), and “almost as good as Mom’s”, and he opened his house to many for a scoff and a story. He loved nothing better than a boil-up with family and friends, and his stories would make you laugh, cry, and ask for more.
All who met Nathan will remember most of all his bellows of laughter, his legendary ability to make anyone he met feel honored and welcome, his intention to always do the right thing, and his mischievous sense of humor. He is a spirit to emulate.
Comrade Nathan Lehr’s Celebration of Life and Legion Veteran’s Funeral Ceremony will take place on Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024, at 2:00 pm, in Pasadena, NL at the United Church.
The funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Parsons Funeral Home 63 North Main Street, Deer Lake, NL.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Nathan Lehr to The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #68 Poppy Trust Fund @ rcl-branch-68@outlook.com; or can be mailed to RCL Branch #68, PO Box 432, Pasadena, NL, A0L 1K0”