Gunner Leo Knox, one of the last surviving members of the storied 166th(Newfoundland) Field Regiment, Royal Artillery has passed away at the age of 93, today he would have celebrated his 94th birthday.
Leo enlisted with the 166th as a teenager and joined the fabled unit in Italy in 1944. He later joined the St. John’s Fire Department where he served for 35 years and was instrumental in the development of the Fire Prevention Program.
Leo was a familiar site at memorial services at the National War Memorial on July 1 and November 11 where he stood proudly in remembrance of his fallen comrades.
Leo was an active member of the 166th Regimental Association and proudly carried the Regimental Colours to the Basilica to have them blessed. He had been a member of the Royal Canadian Legion for 71 years.
Leo will be fondly remembered as a hero and a gentleman.
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Dad was a great man. He loved this province. With a boworred reel to reel and information he purchased from his own money, he taught fire safety to this province. Each summer he would pack up our little car, and with all kids in tow, we would travel to the remotest areas of Newfoundland and while we camped and explored, Dad went to nursing homes, fire stations, schools, gas stations, supermarkets, hotels, motels any where he felt needed the knowledge to save lives.
He didn’t do it because it was his job, he did it because he had an insatiable hunger to spread the word of safety.
No one will ever know the endless personal hours he put into Fire Prevention. It was his passion.
Dad was a protector. Eagerly running to sign up and go to war to protect this Country and then coming home and eagerly running into burning buildings to save lives. He was a true hero. With every breath Dad I will continue to spread your words of love, kindness, and the beauty of this province. I will never forget your sacrifice.
He truly was a great hero Kathie.
Rip
Gunnie
Rest easy
Thank you for your service
We are saddened to hear of Leo’s passing we knew him well as my father was also 166 member we went to many dances at the Mt Pearl Legion god bless him and his family and thank-you for your service Mr Knox
Leo was a wonderful man and an inspiration, not just for his military service but also for his community service. In Leo’s world the glass was always half full and he would share that glass with all who needed it. His smile and the twinkle in his eye always reminded you to enjoy the journey. He enjoyed his life and loved everyone in it. I will miss him but not with sadness, I choose to do it Leo’s way remembering the laughs and songs and twinkling eyes. God hold you gently my uncle and dear friend.
Sorry to hear of Mr. Knox’s passing. My Dad served in the 166th as well and I’m sure their paths crossed. Thank you sir for your service !!!! RIP