The death of a star is called a supernova. When this powerful event occurs, vast landscapes of bright light are emitted displaying the pent-up energy, warmth, and brilliance held within. On Friday, March 10th, 2023 at 4:48pm, we experienced one here on earth with the passing of Leslie Caldwell-Clarke at the age of 61 after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Born on March 25th, 1961, in Orillia, Ontario to Tom and Sally Caldwell she embarked on a joyous childhood alongside her brother, Tommy. Leslie attended the University of Toronto for post secondary education, and at the age of 22 she married Paul Clarke with whom she had four children, Brett, Bryn, Martin, and Shelby. Leslie settled in Bolton, Ontario in 2001 where she raised her kids and built a career in entrepreneurship and marketing. In 2012 she married Michael Berend and became a beloved member of the Berend family. Leslie was creative, energetic, and always looking to lend a helping hand. She loved anything that sparkled, being in water, and the sound of laughter. She led her life with kindness and was known to be an involved community member, supportive friend, spunky glamma, and deeply loving mother. Her absence will be felt by many and although her warm light may have dimmed, she has left behind a beautiful masterpiece through the life she has lived. A celebration of life will take place this coming weekend to commemorate the wonderful person she was and the impact she has had on all of us.
Visitation services will be at Egan Funeral Home on Friday, March 17th from 5-8pm, and the funeral will take place on Saturday morning, March 18th at 11am.
The family invites those who wish to view the service to do so through live streaming at
https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=b9dae07c-445e-4976-b7a1-e13b9f5199e3
You can view the service live at the time scheduled or you can view it at a more convenient time for you. You will be required to register for the service and then they will immediately send you an email with the actual link to the service. Please check your junk or spam inbox if you don’t receive the email with the actual link. If you experience any issues or have questions in regards to the live streaming, please feel free to contact Forget Me Not Ceremonies at 1-877-895-2739. If you need to leave a message on their answering machine, they will return your call promptly.
Following the funeral, a celebrative reception will be held at Caesar’s Event Center from 12:30-4:30pm where, in Leslie’s words, we will “put the fun back in funeral”. Attendees are invited to wear bright colours and bring a funny story about her to share.
Should you feel so inclined, you are welcome to make a contribution to Bethell Hospice (https://bhf.akaraisin.com/ui/bhfdonations/donations/start), whose incredible staff consistently went above and beyond to make sure her final months were as comfortable as possible. Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
Diane Wargalla
The death of a supernova. How appropriate! It is with heavy heart that I share my condolences with you! Leslie made her mark bringing love, laughter, support and unity to all that had the privilege of knowing and loving her, and she is now making plans for her next wild adventure. Until then, she surrounds you with her love, to help you at this difficult time…until you meet again. With warmest regards, Love Diane XOX
Joe Lefave
To Michael, my deepest condolences for your loss. Leslie was an incredible person with a beautiful soul.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family,
Joe Lefave
Lora & Bob Lake
Bob & I want to express our heartfelt condolences to you all! There are no words we can say to dull the pain of losing your beloved Mom. Know that we are thinking of you all during this very difficult time. Hugs & love!!
Mark and Dale Blaire
Lesley was always such a caring person and a great neighbour, always had a twinkle in her eyes.
Lesley impressed Mark and I with her strength of character, her compassion, her wisdom and her ability to find joy, even when significant challenges and losses arose.
Our condolences to all of you who will miss her presence in your daily lives, but she will never leave your hearts.
Sincerely,
Mark and Dale Blaire
In Lesley’s words “Bye Darling!”
Mary Balinov
Sending our deepest condolences to Michael and all the family. A great loss for our community. Leslie was a star that will forever shine in our hearts. May she Rest In Peace.
Colleen Ciceri
Today heaven sparkles with the arrival of a precious gem.
A playful spirit, infectious laugh,
Resolute courage, and iron strength.
Memories of you, dearest Leslie, forever in our hearts.
Condolences to Michael and family. May the huge outpouring of love which surrounds Leslie bring you comfort and peace in the days ahead.
Colleen Ciceri
Maggie Campbell
Sympathies and prayers to Michael Berend, Brett, Bryn, Martin & Shelby. Thinking of you all @ this very difficult times. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord & let perpetual shine upon her. May she rest in peace.
Sincere condolences from Dr. Saima Haleem, Dr. Joseph Niedoba & Maggie Campbell @ Bolton Medical Practice.
Orian Sinkler
You will be truly missed, you always had a smile on, and when I think of that it puts a smile on my face too.
I wish I could be there for Martin Bryn Shelby and Michael so I am sending my love to all of you.
Kathy McFarlane
Leslie was a vibrant, enthusiastic and cherished member of the Kin Club of Bolton. She ensured that every member and guest were welcomed and appreciated. She will be deeply missed within our club and within the community. On behalf of the Kin Club, I want to extend our deepest condolences to Leslie’s family and want to assure Michael that his Kin Family will always be available for any support he may need. Our love to you all
Diane Tolstoy
Its with great sadness that I heard of Leslie’s passing. She had a dynamic personality and will be greatly missed by family and the community. Please accept my sincere Condolences.
Mascarenhas Family
Offering our deepest condolences to Michael, Bryn, Martin & Shelby. Leslie was truly a shining light who’s love of life and laughter touched us all. I have such fond memories from our Dragon Boating days and will miss her friendly waves and chats as she passed us in the neighborhood. Leslie you were a gift to all of us.
Sandra, Troy and Giulia
Ryan jancic
My condolences to everyone Leslie was an amazing mother who raised some of the best people i know and an amazing women and friend she lived with a full hart and showed it to every one I loved you and so sad your gone rest easy Leslie
Sylvia King
Leslie’s smile and infectious laugh would light up any room (even a dental operatory room!) The sound of her signature tinkling bracelets was like the sounds of angels’ wings..and now she will be with them.
Wishing peace to all who knew her and loved her for the spirit she was.
Dan Reeves
Dan Reeves,
and Kayden’s Dad
So very sorry from both of us.
Thank You so much for being in Kayden’s life from the very beginning
He will miss you forever, but I will talk about you often to let him know
how wonderful his “grandmother” was.
So sorry to Leslie’s family
May she rest in peace