With deep sorrow, we share the passing of our father, Gabriel, on January 3, 2021. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 64 years, Jacqueline, only a few short months ago.
Born in Dupuy, Quebec, on January 4, 1933, Gabriel came from a large and boisterous family. He had many happy memories of loud conversations, laughter and always, card games. His 5 surviving siblings will miss him very much.
Gabriel was a quiet, hardworking man who loved his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren dearly. He and Jacqueline welcomed 6 children in total: Laurent (late 2000) (Holly), Gilles (late 2003), Monique, Maurice (Beverly), Jacques and Rose Marie (late 1972). His grandchildren Jason, Christopher (late 2019), Gizelle, Rachel and Jazmin, and his great grandchildren Marley, Lincoln and Elliot gave him tremendous joy and pride.
Gabriel loved to laugh and tell corny jokes. He was an avid chess player and liked to sit and strum his guitar. He loved nothing better than an evening spent with his family, playing cards and enjoying one another's company. He and Jacqueline were fortunate to have a close group of friends who they met early in their marriage.
He liked his food very plain, much to the distress of his French wife who loved to cook.
A lover of music and songs throughout his long life, towards the end he settled on one favourite: "You Are My Sunshine". As long as he was able, he sang it to Jacqueline and upon request to any family member who asked. Even the week before his passing, he sang along to a recording of it by his granddaughter Rachel. Little did he realize that it was he who was the sunshine to his family and we will miss him dearly.
Due to COVID, a celebration of life will be held at a future date and social distancing will be in place.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society or charity of choice.