Leslie John Carr

(1937-2026) 

Spencerport: Leslie John Carr—beloved husband, father, friend, piper, and prankster—passed away on February 13, 2026, leaving behind a legacy as loud and joyful as his bagpipe playing. Les was a man of many talents and even more friends, defined by an infectious laughter and an unwavering devotion to his family.

Les was a performer at his core, but his true masterpiece was the way he made people feel. While he found great joy in bringing music and laughter to others, his greatest gift was his ability to inspire. Whether through a long conversation, a shared joke, or a simple word of encouragement, Les had a way of leaving people better than he found them.

An accomplished bagpiper, Les spent his life honoring traditions and stirring souls with his music. Yet, his zest for life wasn’t limited to the parade. When the pipes were put away, he was almost certainly heard whistling a sharp tune, singing along to a twangy old country song, or masterminding a practical joke designed to spark a smile. He was a man who lived at full volume, and his signature whistle could brighten even the darkest room. That energy wasn’t just noise—it was an invitation to join in, to live a little louder, a little brighter.

That same infectious spirit fueled his many passions. Whether he was mentoring the boys of Scout Troop 84, building and flying rockets, or hosting legendary snowmobile or 4th of July parties, Les was a teacher at heart. He didn’t just share his hobbies—like woodworking or his love for the gym—he shared his mindset: that life should be lived with kindness, joy, curiosity, and purpose.

Above all, Les was a man of deep devotion. His family was his priority and his proudest achievement.  Les was famous for creating lasting memories, like “Camp Carr,” an annual summer tradition where his grandchildren would gather at the cottage for a week of hiking, swimming, fishing, and playing together under Grandpa’s watchful and joyful eye. 

He is survived by his beloved wife of more than 64 years, Ellen Mae Koetz Carr; his children, Dorraine (Gary) Kirkmire, Tim (Joann) Carr, Greg Carr, and Janene Swanson (John Kirkmire); eight grandchildren—Gene, Rob (Katie), Aaron, Andrew, Dan (Anne), Macey, Bobby, and Katie; and nine great-grandchildren—Olivia, Jake, Cameron, Olivia, Lucy, Kennedy, Madelyn, Philomena, and Aubree. He was preceded in death by his favorite four-legged companions, who are undoubtedly greeting him with wagging tails.

Friends may call on Thursday (February 19th) 4:00 – 7:00 PM at Vay-Schleich and Meeson Funeral Home, 1075 Long Pond Road. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday (February 20th) at 10:00 AM at St. John the Evangelist Church, 55 Martha Street, Spencerport. Private Entombment, White Haven Memorial Park.

Following the Mass, family and friends are invited to join the family for lunch at 1:00 p.m. to celebrate Les’s life. Please come ready to share a story, enjoy a laugh, or simply be together as we remember a life exceptionally lived.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Tunnel to Towers Foundation (T2T.org) in his memory.

Though his whistle is silent, the joy he sparked will echo for generations.