Leona was born February 3, 1937 at the Smeaton hospital as the eldest child of Peter and Clara Goranson of Smeaton. She attended Diamond Lake School north of Snowden and later finished her education in Snowden.

At a young age she had an ear for music and enjoyed playing the piano. In her teens, she liked to attend dances and later met her to be husband, Harold at a Snowden New Year’s dance.

On November 29, 1958, Leona married Harold Pearse and they made a home on a ¼ of land Northwest of Snowden, where they farmed and raised 3 children-Allan, Levina and Jason.

Leona always grew large gardens and canned numerous vegetables and fruits. She was known for her homemade bread, buns and pies and always welcomed company and enjoyed having coffee and a visit. She helped with various chores on the farm, trips to the field, bringing lunches and giving a helping hand. She enjoyed picking berries and was always the quickest at blueberry picking.

She loved to visit the lakes in summer when the family would go camping at Ispuchaw Lake and made each trip memorable. In the winter she liked to watch curling on TV and listening to the ‘Old Tyme Dance Party’ on the radio playing cards. Leona was a loving mother, homemaker, excellent cook and great friend to many. She cherished her family and enjoyed spending time with grandchildren when they came to visit.

Her husband Harold passed away in 2020 and Leona later moved to Smeaton North Haven Care Home, Nipawin Pineview Lodge and her permanent home until her passing was at Parkland Place in Melfort. She always maintained her kindness and good nature by greeting everyone with a smile.

Leona was predeceased by her husband Harold of 61 years; her parents Peter and Clara Goranson; infant sister Doreen Goranson; brother Wayne Goranson and daughter-in-law Julie Pearse.

She is survived by her children: Allan, Levina, and Jason; brothers: Dale Goranson, Dennis Goranson; grandchildren: Jenna Pearse Jensen, Carley Pearse, Morgan Pearse and Chelsie Pearse.

Leona will be deeply and lovingly remembered.

 

A Private Family Graveside will be held in Aldergrove Cemetery in Smeaton, SK

All are welcome to join the family at a Memorial Reception at the Smeaton Legion Hall on Sunday, July 12, 2026 at 3:00 PM.

Arrangements entrusted to Fedusiak Funeral Chapel & Crematorium Ltd. (306)752-3838.

• Date : 2026-07-06
• Location : Melfort