William Hudson Box Leavens passed away peacefully on April 21, 2026 in Midland, the day before his 86th birthday. He was born in Kingston, Ontario on April 22, 1940 to Charles Hudson Leavens of Belleville and Edith Elizabeth Roberts (nee Box) of Napanee. He leaves a legacy of a loving family and countless friends. He was pre-deceased by his loving wife Gloria Jean (nee Trotter) and his sister Diana of New Paltz, New York. He is survived by his brothers, Richard of Stayner and Jim (Dana) of Meaford. He is also survived by his children, Chris (Claudia) of Toronto, Anne of Peterborough, and Hugh (Tracy) of Hamilton. Sophie, Jack, Anna and Henry, Hudson’s grandchildren, will all miss their Grandpa. Hudson received a BSC in Chemistry from Carlton University and an MBA from the University of Toronto. He worked for many years at Kindred Industries Limited (formerly Waltec Sinkware, now Franke) in Midland, first in sales, then as General Manager and eventually Group Vice President of Emco. He was never without his camera to record events and scenery throughout his life and supplied the photography for three cookbooks written by the Georgian Bay Gourmet gang (one of whom was his wife, Jean). In 1990, he purchased Watson’s Camera Shop on the main street of Midland to pursue photography professionally and ran it until he retired in 2010. He will be remembered as a steadfast supporter of the community of Midland, contributing to many causes and organizations. He was very involved with the Junior Achievers which provides programs focused on financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship to empower local youth. A celebration of his life will begin with a visitation at Carson Funeral Homes - J.H. Lynn Chapel, 290 First St. in Midland (705) 526-6551 on Friday, May 8, 2026 between the hours of 4 and 6 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Saint Mark's Church, 307 Third St. in Midland starting at 2 o'clock. A reception will follow the service at Brooklea Golf & Country Club, 8567 ON-93 in Midland. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Georgian Bay Hospital Foundation on his behalf.
Online condolences and memories may be left at www.carsonfuneralhomes.com
Condolences
Janet Orser
May 12, 2026My deepest condolences to the Leaven’s family on the sad loss of Hudson. He was always a kind gentleman & a fair boss at Kindred. The world is a sadder place without him. Deepest sympathies.
Donna Macfarlane
May 10, 2026Bill and I met Hudson soon after we moved to Midland in 2003. He was a lovely man and we had many happy interactions with him. He will be missed. My condolences to his family.
Janice and Brian Alves
May 9, 2026Such a great loss to our community. Hudson was always cheerful and we have fond memories of of him in his shop, years ago He and Jean were such a lovely couple and raised three great children. Our sincere condolences to all the family.
Stephen Orr
May 8, 2026A great family man....have some of his nature photos(treasured). Hudson was a great supporter of Midland and area thru many avenues( one of the good Guys!)
Sharon Parker-Keller
May 5, 2026I am so sorry to hear of Hudson’s passing. My sincerest condolences to the family for your loss. I’ve known Hudson for a very long while starting when we first met in 1982 when I started working at Waltec in Midland. He was General Manager at the time, so he was my boss’s boss, but it was such a small office back then that everyone knew everyone! I will never forget the incredible gesture when I got married 4 years later and of course still working at Waltec. As my wedding gift from the company, Hudson convinced his neighbor that he should offer his antique car, a 1928 Whippet sedan, as the vehicle to take me from my home to the church!! What a crazy nice surprise! So thoughtful and so kind. I will always cherish that memory. With deepest sympathy, Sharon Parker-Keller
John Meyer
Apr 29, 2026Hudson was a good friend and a good man to have in the community. He helped me a great deal and when we went out to lunch, half of his time was spent saying Hello! to everyone who came by our table to see him. He supported all manner of local causes and seemingly knew everyone. He and Jean raised 3 great kids and the Midland that he loved is poorer for his passing.