November 2, 2026

Remembering Len Van Roon

Heritage Winnipeg was saddened to hear of the passing of Len Van Roon on October 26th, 2026. Van Roon was a dedicated advocate for history and heritage, with a focus on World War II and Winnipeg’s Charleswood suburb, whose tireless efforts leave behind a rich and lasting legacy.

Van Roon was born in Winnipeg in 1921, growing up on the family poultry farm off Charleswood Road. Drafted into the Second World War in 1943, Van Roon would serve in the 19th Field Artillery Regiment, landing on Juno Beach with the first wave on D-Day. After fighting through France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, Van Roon paused to visit his Dutch family after the war before returning home in December of 1945. Van Roon would then marry his true love, Verna, in September of 1946. The couple continued running the family farm on Charleswood Road, together raising four children.

In his youth, Van Roon had noticed Red River cart tracks crossing the family’s property, inspiring a life long interest in local history. Van Roon and his wife went on to play a central role in establishing the Charleswood Historical Society in 1974 and the Charleswood Historical Society Museum in 2007, dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Charleswood.

Along with participating in Doors Open Winnipeg annually through the museum, Van Roon and his wife also gave countless presentations to school children about Charleswood and Canadian military history, and helped erect a memorial for the men of Charleswood and Headingley who lost their lives in the two World Wars. The couple were true pillars of the community, with the Van Roon Prairie Garden on the Harte Trail section of the Trans Canada Trail and the Van Roon Community Hall at the Charleswood United Church both named in their honour.

Van Roon eventually became the last World War II veteran at the Charleswood Legion, where there is a small tulip garden dedicated to him in front of the Tribute Wall. His continued commitment to his community and country earned Van Roon many more accolades and awards throughout the years, acknowledging the extensive and enduring impact he had on Winnipeg, making it a better place for all.

Heritage Winnipeg is forever grateful for Van Roon’s generosity of time and talent throughout the years, helping save and celebrate the history and heritage of Charleswood and World War II. His unwavering commitment to his community will not be forgotten. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Van Roon’s family, friends and colleagues – he was a wonderful person that will be missed by the many whose lives he touched.
 

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