In May of this year, Inclusion Saskatchewan lost one of its most important and influential
past-presidents, Doris “Dodie” Leier. Dodie, as she was known to those who knew her well,
served as Inclusion Saskatchewan’s president from 1982-1985.
During her presidency, she oversaw some of Inclusion Saskatchewan’s most important early work, including researching alternatives to institutional living, forming strong connections with members of the Saskatchewan Legislature, and establishing Early Childhood Intervention Programs across the province.
Dodie passed on May 21, 2020 with her family by her side. She was predeceased by her
husband, Martin Leier; mom and dad, Mildred and Reinhold Wagner; sister, Lorraine Dundas; and sister-in-law, Patricia Wagner. Dodie is survived by her son, Terry Leier; daughter, Marcia (Jim) Watson; her grandchildren, who were her pride and joy, Jesse Schellenberg (Courtney), Melissa (Dustin) Sykes; great-grandchildren Dominic Graham and Laikyn Sykes; brothers Gilbert (Lois) Wagner and Ron Wagner; close friend Marcella Blais; and many nieces and nephews.
Dodie had a passion for life; finding the beauty in everything and everyone. Gardening was a loving hobby of hers and when she wasn't tending to her own, you could find her happily helping her neighbours - with or without their permission. Dodie loved her cats and it wasn't uncommon to find an extra visitor in her home.
Dodie leaves behind an incredible legacy of advocating for people with intellectual disabilities in Saskatchewan and our organization would not be where it is today if it were not for her guidance and leadership.
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