Gregory Jude Kenneth LeBlanc

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Gregory Jude Kenneth LeBlanc, 63, at home on Friday, April 24, 2026. 

Greg was born in Sydney Mines on August 20, 1962. He was the son of the late Catherine (Kaye) LeBlanc and the late Matthew LeBlanc. 

Greg grew up in Sydney Mines in a busy, loving home that welcomed all the neighbourhood kids. He was employed with Copol International Ltd. for 30 years. Greg began dating Cynthia (Cindy) Boutilier at the age of 17, and they married in 1989. Together, they built their life in Sydney Mines, welcoming daughter Erin (André Aikens), son Kenneth, and later their grandson Malcom. Greg and Cindy were devoted to one another and created many happy memories together. 

Greg will be remembered for his strength, sharp wit, and the kind of presence that left an impression on everyone who knew him. He was hardworking and loyal, with a sense of humour that could make people laugh when they needed it most. In his younger years, the saying, “It’s not the size of the man in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the man,” epitomized Greg, as anyone who faced him on (and off) the ice could attest. Later in life, his greatest joys were often the simple ones. He enjoyed quiet time at home with Cindy, drives through town with Crusher hanging out the passenger window, and time spent with family and friends at the “Last Resort” in Beaver Cove. 

Friendship meant a great deal to Greg, and he formed many lasting connections over the years, including with childhood friends Ian MacDonald and Chris Osmond, and brothers-in-law Les Ferguson, Billy Unsworth, the late Sandy Jardine, and the late Jed McMullin. In later years, he formed special friendships with the crew in Beaver Cove, spending evenings around the fire sharing stories and listening to music. Camping was something Greg enjoyed with his parents and siblings, and he continued that tradition with his own family. Many will remember the fun they shared camping with Greg, Cindy, and the kids in Ingonish, Inverness, Margaree, and Beaver Cove. His presence around the campfire, sporting his faded Seaview bucket hat, will be sorely missed. 

Greg will be forever cherished by his wife, Cindy; daughter Erin (André) and son Kenneth; brothers Matty (Linda), Joel (Anna), Danny (Sherry), and Marcel; and sisters Mary Arlene Guest (Martin), Paula Coakley (Leonard), and Judy Brennan (Darrell). He will also be greatly missed by his Boutilier family: Donna Coady, Debby Jardine, Marcy (Billy Unsworth), Nancy Balah, Irene (Les Ferguson), Gary (Cynthia), Paul (Gayle), and Carl Gardner. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly, especially nieces Geralyn and Michelle, with whom he shared a very special connection. 

Greg was predeceased by his parents, Kaye and Matthew LeBlanc; his father- and mother-in-law, Garf and Sadie Boutilier; sister-in-law Wendy McMullin; and brothers-in-law Sandy Jardine, Dave Balah, and Jed McMullin.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Michel McKeough and Louise McKeough for their care and support.

A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date for family and close friends, at the family’s request.

Donations in Greg’s memory may be made to the Sydney Mines & Area Food Bank. 

Greg always had a way of making sure the people in his life knew they mattered; he never let a goodbye pass without saying “I love you,” and that love will remain with us always.

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