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MICHELE SMITH
Born: Sep 08, 1952
Date of Passing: Feb 23, 2012
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryMICHELE SMITH With heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of Michele Smith (Gauthier) on February 23, 2012 while vacationing in New Zealand. She was born to Jerome (Jerry - deceased) and Matilde (Tilly) Gauthier on September 8, 1952. Michele received her LPN Nursing designation in Red Lake, Ontario in 1983. She married Douglas (Smitty) Smith in 1977. They started their life together in Red Lake before moving to Winnipeg in 1984 to begin their business life together at the Marion Hotel. Michele is survived by her mother Tilly, her husband Doug and her children Kal, Brett, Laneil and Milanne. She is also survived by her siblings Gilbert Gauthier (Lorraine), Mona Gauthier (Colin Ward) and Robert Gauthier (Melissa), and many nieces and nephews. She had a beautiful heart and a beautiful smile that brought sunshine and joy whether you needed it or not. She touched many with her wisdom, compassion and her generosity and was the glue that held all our families together. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, March 7 at 1:00 p.m. followed by a mass at 2:00 p.m. at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, 315 Munroe Ave. When you need me just whisper my name in your heart....I will be there
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 02, 2012
Condolences & Memories (73 entries)
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Spent many nights at The M as it was , not a 2nd home , but more like my main home as your smile always welcomed me. It made me feel safe and except for the one night when I was set upon as security watched, everything has always been the bestest for me there ! RIP Michele Will miss you always. Jasper - Posted by: Mark JASPER Juer (Friend) on: Feb 26, 2016
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To Doug and Family May you be restored by the love that surrounds you and your treasured memories. I will always remember Michele for her bubbly personality and wonderful sense of humour. You are in my thoughts ! - Posted by: Leslie Saunders () on: Mar 14, 2012
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Doug; Our deepest sympathy go out to you and your family. The Ottosen's - Posted by: Richard Ottosen () on: Mar 10, 2012
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So very sorry for the sorrow you and your family are feeling. We wish there were words that would ease you but know you are in our thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: Daryl and Joan (Smith) Wert (First cousin to Doug) on: Mar 08, 2012
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Doug, sincere condolences to you and you family. Your family is in our hearts and prayers. Remember Michele for her laugh and her smile, because that...was who she was. I haven't seen her since '95, but that is what I remember and always will. Sincerly Kerri, Ezio and family - Posted by: Kerri Smith-Palermino (2nd cousin to Doug (Gary and Janet Smith's daughter) on: Mar 07, 2012
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Michele will be sadly missed by all...rip my friend. - Posted by: yvette (friend) on: Mar 07, 2012
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Doug, you and Michele were one of my first employers when I moved to Winnipeg. I have not worked for anyone who were so fair or fun to work for since then. Michele's huge smile and her sense of humour would brighten every day. Heaven now has a perfect angel. She will watch over all of you just as she did when she was here. I am so sorry for your loss. God Bless - Posted by: Susan Kleven (Former Employee) on: Mar 07, 2012
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Milanne, Laneil and family, Our most sincere and deepest condolences. Michele seemed like such a beautiful and caring lady. Remember that she will always be with you no matter what. Take care and know that you're all in our thoughts and prayers. Camille & Dave - Posted by: Camille Dupas & Dave Banks () on: Mar 07, 2012
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Our deepest sympathies go out to Doug and family. May the memories of the wonderful love you shared with Michele ease your suffering. To live in hearts that were touched is not to die. Our thoughts, prayers and love are with you. - Posted by: Roger and Gail Ward () on: Mar 07, 2012
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Michele Smith was instrumental in helping me develop a strong work ethic back when she hired me to work in the Beer Store. As a typical youth, Michele and Doug hauled me into their office more than once to set me straight!! She also told me to never take a job for granted because it could be gone tomorrow. The lessons I learned during my first few years in the workforce, from Michelle, Doug, and my parents, have served me well in my career and continue to pay off. I am eternally grateful for their role in my professional development. We may have lost touch over the years but this does not discount the credit I owe to Michele and the Smith family. My sincerest condolences, Robert - Posted by: Robert Bergeron (Family Friend) on: Mar 07, 2012
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I met Michelle and Doug several times when Mona and Gilbert were operating The St. Regis Hotel, where I have been an employee since 1989. It's a great feeling that we can consider employers not only bosses, but friends! My prayers and thoughts are with you all. - Posted by: Rob Plouffe (Employee and Friend of the Family) on: Mar 06, 2012
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My most sincere condolences to Doug, Michele and Doug's children, Michele's Mother and all family members and friends. I didn't know Michele well or long but for a brief moment in time I felt like a part of something incredibly supportive and loving and at that time, it meant the world to me. I am so sorry to hear of Michele's passing. She was an incredibly bright light, an angel if you will, and I know she will be missed by so, so many. - Posted by: Wendy Hanson (Employee (2007)) on: Mar 06, 2012
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Not since our Red Lake days have we spoken with Michele, however news of the accident and her tragic passing came as a shock. Michele was a vivacious and kind person who loved life. Our deepest sympathy to Doug and family and to the extended Gaultier family. - Posted by: Ray Hamilton & Shawne Goodison, Sydney Australia (Acquaintances ) on: Mar 06, 2012
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Doug, Mrs Gauthier, Mona & Colin, Gilbert & Lorraine, Robert & Melissa, and families. Our prayers and our hearts are with you always. Many fond memories of a very classy lady with smiles, laughter, and happiness to brighten every occasion. We will miss Michele, but never will we forget her. Carry on and make her proud of all of you Colin and Sandy Williams - Posted by: Colin and Sandy Williams (Old friends) on: Mar 06, 2012
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Our deepest condolences to all family. - Posted by: Elaine&Ed Halischuk (Friends) on: Mar 06, 2012
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My deepest condolences to Doug, the kids and all of Michele's family. I haven't seen all of you in a very long time and I remember Michele always being full of joy and happiness. You are in my thoughts and in my heart. - Posted by: Dawn Smith (2nd cousin to Doug (Gary and Janet Smith's daughter)) on: Mar 06, 2012
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There are times in our lives when without knowing we have either been touched by or lived with or around an angel. This is who Michelle was, is. Our sincere sympathy to Doug and family and Mrs. Gauthier and Family. Cam and Carolyn McIvor - Posted by: Cameron and CarolynMcIvor (friends) on: Mar 06, 2012
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Dearest Doug & Family, Our sincerest condolences on your tragic loss. Michele was a ray of Sunshine always, Her smile will be missed by many, Stay strong and know The Marion and so many others will be there for you....God Bless. - Posted by: Caroline & Roger Dufault (Friends) on: Mar 06, 2012
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Dear Doug, Kal, Brett, Laneil and Milanne: We were devastated to hear of the accident and the loss of Michele. Michele and all of you showed us such kindness and family warmth when you took the time to visit with us years ago when we were in Winnipeg for a hockey tournament. You came to the hockey game, had us to your home and Michele arranged for us to meet the rest of the family the next day for brunch. We were so touched by the "open arms" of family and we were thankful for Michele for being so generous with her time to organize all. We pray that her love for family and friends will give you comfort and your memories will keep her close. Love Gerard, Karen, Christa, Juliane, Megan and Jeff Jubinville - Posted by: Gerard and Karen Jubinville and family (Cousin) on: Mar 06, 2012
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My deepest condolences to you Doug and families.. My thoughts are with you while going through this time. I have fond memories of Michelle during my time spent in Red Lake. I will never forget her smile and laughter. - Posted by: Randy Baird (Friend to Doug) on: Mar 06, 2012
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Michele was a very kind and generous being..these special traits will be carried forward by those she knew and touched. My deepest sympathies to the families. NEVER forgotten. - Posted by: su seneshen () on: Mar 06, 2012
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My heartfelt, deepest sympathy is sent to you Doug and your family. As well as the Gauthier family. Michelle was a wonderful happy go lucky person and she will never be forgotten by all who knew her. Michelle had such a great smile and a outlook on life. At this very difficult time lean on your family and friends to help you through your great loss. She will never be forgotten. - Posted by: Roger & Rozanne Vandale-Musso (Friends) on: Mar 06, 2012
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Our condolences go to the whole family. We send you all a big hug. - Posted by: Lindsay and Lynne Botterill () on: Mar 06, 2012
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So very sorry for what has happened . . She will be deeply missed and forever remembered in our hearts. - Posted by: Lawrence and Eileen Shewchuk (Friends) on: Mar 05, 2012
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She was a great lady. We enjoyed our times with her always. Anything we can do just call. - Posted by: Franco and Jean Magnifico (Friends) on: Mar 05, 2012
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To the Smith and Gauthier Families We send our sincere condolences during this difficult time. Michele was a beautiful spirt who tragically was called away too soon. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Our thoughts are with you all and always. Cheryl & Rick Collins - Posted by: Cheryl and Rick Collins & family (employee / friend of the families) on: Mar 05, 2012
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I will never forget Michelle's laugh and how she could light up the room. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. - Posted by: Susan Beasant (Harding) (high school friend) on: Mar 05, 2012
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Our deepest condolences to the Smith and Gauthier families. We are very sorry to hear of Michele's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. - Posted by: MHA (Manitoba Hotel Association) on: Mar 05, 2012
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Doug and Family I am so sorry to hear the passing of a truly wonderful person. All that knew her will surely miss her. - Posted by: Darrell Schalla (Inter-City Leisure) (Friend and business aquaintant) on: Mar 05, 2012
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Our thoughts and prayers are with you Doug and the Family. Michelle was a beautiful person. Always smiling, always positive and always loved. We will miss her and her beautiful friendly smile. - Posted by: Wes Allin (Friend) on: Mar 05, 2012
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Our sincere condolences to Tilly, Doug & the children as well as Gilbert, Mona and Robert. Our thoughts and prayers have been with you at this sad time. We won't be at her service though she will be in our hearts. It will be so sad to visit Twisted Sisters Island this summer without her welcoming smile and friendly comments. We love you all. Don and Sula Ward - Posted by: Ursula Ward (mother of brother-in-law) on: Mar 05, 2012
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We offer our deepest sympathies. Michele was admirable in everything she did and lit up the room to feel a great sense of comfort. This is reflected through all of the children. We are deeply saddened and shocked at her passing. To Doug, Kal, Brett, Laneil and Milanne. We send you our sincere condolences. - Posted by: Jenna & The LaRocque's (Friend) on: Mar 05, 2012
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Michele so full of light, energy and humour. To be in the same room as Michele was to have a smile on your face.. Doug and family: our thoughts are with you and love. Our Michele will be missed so much by all of us who knew her. - Posted by: David Jubinville (cousin) on: Mar 05, 2012
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Doug and family...from our family to yours we can only offer our deepest sympathy and know that your Red Lake friends, Family, old school mates will cherish our memories of Michele. Please know that you will all be in our thoughts and prayers during these trying times. - Posted by: Nijole, Rod, Ingrid and Erik Atkinson (Friends ) on: Mar 05, 2012
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My daughter is working in Auckland NZ and she heard that some Manitobans had been in a tragic accident. My heart sank when I saw the names and realized Michele had passed on. What a shock. Our sincerest condolences Doug and family and the Gauthiers. (I remember bumping in to you and Michele at Children's Hospital a few years ago.) Michele's laugh is one of those memorable ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all in this time of terrible loss. - Posted by: Evvie Milliken and Kay Tingley (former Red Lakers) on: Mar 04, 2012
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Doug, our thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences to you and your family. - Posted by: CMMG (Coalition of Manitoba Motorcycle Groups) () on: Mar 04, 2012
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Dear Doug and family, I send our deepest sympathy in the loss of your beautiful wife Michele, and to your children the loss of their Mother. As well Tilly to you the loss of a wonderful daughter. Gilbert.. Mona ..and let's just say the entire Gauthier family -Our deepest Sorrow and prayers. Your family is my family as well as my childrens'. Forever in our thoughts and prayers. Mary Hildebrand and Family - Posted by: Mary Hildebrand and Family (Former Employee and Friend Forever) on: Mar 04, 2012
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Our deepest sympathies on the loss of Michele. We remember her bubbly personality and beautiful smile. God keep you and your family strong Doug. Our thoughts are with your family. - Posted by: Rosslyn & Dennis Anaka (Fiends) on: Mar 04, 2012
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Doug and family, and Gauthier family. So sorry to hear of Michele's passing. Michele was a wonderful person who lit up everyone's life. Her beautiful smile and contagious laugh will always be remembered by all who had the pleasure of her aquaintance. Anyone knowing her was very fortunate and share your loss. - Posted by: Sharon Smiegielski[Stastook] (friend) on: Mar 04, 2012
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Doug and family. So very sorry to hear of Michele's passing. We would like to extend our sincere condolences to yourself, your family and entire Gauthier family. Michele will be missed by all who knew her. Perry and Julia English - Posted by: Perry and Julia English () on: Mar 04, 2012
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My sincere condolences to Aunt Tilly, Doug and the children as well as Gil, Robert and Mona. My thoughts and prayers are with you. - Posted by: colette O'Reilly (cousin) on: Mar 04, 2012
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I will miss you Michelle , you had such a great smile and you were forever upbeat and cheerful. When the families met, you lit up the room and it was always a joy to see you and talk to you. You will leave a void in this world, however you will light up the next world. - Posted by: Colette O'Reilly (cousin) on: Mar 04, 2012
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Dear Doug and family, Our deepest sympathies to you all. You have been in our thoughts and prayers since learning of Michelle's tragic passing. May the beautiful memories you have of Michelle bring comfort and peace. - Posted by: Tom and Patricia Bale (Friends from Southdale) on: Mar 04, 2012
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We are so sad. Michele was one of those truly gracious individuals who made life so much more pleasant for everyone around her. - Posted by: Bonnie Gurney and Eric Caswell (friends forever) on: Mar 03, 2012
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Our sincere condolences to Doug and his family. Sorry we are unable to attend the funeral services. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. - Posted by: David and Jackie Bockstael (Friends ) on: Mar 03, 2012
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Doug and family, we are so sorry to hear of your loss of your wife and mother. She will be so missed by all. Our whole family so enjoyed the time we spent with the Smith/Ward families when they stayed at Coney 3. There is no words to say how we feel except to say how sorry we are. God Bless you all at this time and always. - Posted by: Grant & Tanis (Harrison) Kydd (Friends from Lake of the Woods) on: Mar 03, 2012
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Dear Doug, Kal, Brett, Laneil, Milanne. Words cannot express the deep heartfelt sadness that we feel for each and everyone of you! We feel so blessed to have known Michele and to share a friendship with the wonderful person that she was! Evan though friends get distant sometimes, Michele will never be forgotten and we will always remember the fond memories we shared with all your wonderful family!!Love Marie Berard and Family! - Posted by: Michele Smith (Long-Time Friends) on: Mar 03, 2012
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Dearest Doug & family. We send to you today, our most sincere condolences. Our hearts, thoughts & prayers are with you all during this most difficult time. May the fondest memories of Michele and her beautiful smile remain forever within us. - Posted by: John and Louise Braconnier (friends) on: Mar 03, 2012
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We extend our deepest sympathy to Doug and his family. - Posted by: Fritz and Eva Kirsky () on: Mar 03, 2012
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Doug and family Deepest condolences to you and your family. - Posted by: Reid Birss (Friend) on: Mar 03, 2012
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Our sincere condolences and sympathy to you Doug, your children and your entire extended family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this tragic time of loss. We are praying God's strength and peace over your family. - Posted by: Curt and Heidi Neufeld ( Neuco ) (Business Relationship) on: Mar 03, 2012
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Our sincere condolences to the entire Smith family. We are saddened at the news of this tragic accident. Michele will be remembered for her kind heart in sharing her loving home to her daughter Milanne and friends growing up. Our daughter has several memories of the love the warmth the fun shared with Michele. Of course the yummy treats too. May Peace Be With You All at This Time. - Posted by: The Van Elslander's (Friends of the Family) on: Mar 03, 2012
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Doug [and family] I was so saddened by the news of Michelle's sudden passing. Michelle always had a smile for every one. Back in the day we used to chat about business & joke around about life as it was, Michelle would often offer great advice, that I took with great gratitude and appreciation. My families thought are with you and yours Doug. Michelle you will be fondly remembered. - Posted by: Roy Finch (Friend) on: Mar 03, 2012
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Words cannot express the sadness felt by all of us who knew Michele. To Doug, the Smith family and the Gauthier family, know that our thoughts are with you and Michele will always be in our hearts. It is with great regret that we are not able to attend the service. - Posted by: Landis and Tony Esposito (Old Friends) on: Mar 02, 2012
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My thoughts and prayers are with your family. - Posted by: Joanne Love (Friend) on: Mar 02, 2012
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Our hearts go out to you Doug and your children. We will always remember Michele and the times we were together with you. She was a wonderful kind and generous lady and we will all miss her. - Posted by: Rick & Melody Lundstrom & our family. (Longtime friends .) on: Mar 02, 2012
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Doug and family...we are so sorry to hear the tragic news..we love you and there are no words that will help I am sure. You are in our prayers and always in our hearts.xo - Posted by: patti and clint waldon (childhood friends) on: Mar 02, 2012
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Our condolences go out to doug and family. We have all lost a wonderful person but she wont be forgotten. Our prayers are with you at this difficult time. - Posted by: Ray and Bobbi Smylski (friends) on: Mar 02, 2012
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We were so sorry to hear of Michele's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. - Posted by: Rod Cline and Family () on: Mar 02, 2012
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Doug, Kal, Brett, Laneil, Milanne, the entire Gauthier Clan, and the Smiths . . . A shock to all of us . . . I will always remember her ever present 'laugh' . . . Michele is now in a better place . . . Our hearts and Prayers go out to you all . . . - Posted by: Ray & Sherry Davis (Former In-Law) on: Mar 02, 2012
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Dear Doug and Family: we were so very sorry to hear of Michele's passing...I remember her as being very bubbly and happy....Our hearts and prayers have been with all of you since we heard the sad news....We will be thinking of all of you in the days and weeks ahead as you find your way back to happier times and remember all the good memories that you had together ..............Time doesn't really heal but it dims the hurt....take care....Pat and Shirley - Posted by: tribute for MICHELE SMITH ...FROM Pat and Shirley Sayeau (friends of all the families) on: Mar 02, 2012
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Dear Doug and Family: we were so sorry to hear of Michele's passing....Our thoughts and prayers have been with you since we heard, and continue to be with you at this very sad time. We will be thinking of you in weeks to come as you find your way again Sincerely, Shirley and Pat Sayeau - Posted by: tribute to MICHELE SMITH.......from:Shirley and Pat Sayeau (friends of the families) on: Mar 02, 2012
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Our thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences to you and your family Doug - Posted by: Southdale Oldtimers Hockey League (Friends) on: Mar 02, 2012
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Doug and family: Our heartfelt sorrow goes out to you all at this tragic time. You are in the thoughts of many old friends I am sure, whether far or near. Be strong. - Posted by: Tom and Yvette Baron (Old friends) on: Mar 02, 2012
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I can count the number of times I've met with Michelle on my hands but even through those few times I knew that she was very special. That true love she & Doug had was very clear every time you saw them together. My heart goes out to Doug and the family. You are all in my prayers. God bless you all. - Posted by: Rita-Lyn Dasset & Family (business friendship) on: Mar 02, 2012
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Our sincere condolences over your loss of a wonderful mother, wife and friend. May the gathering of family and friends at this sad time help in this time of need. - Posted by: Don and June Woodrow and family (Friends) on: Mar 02, 2012
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My deepest condolences to Doug & the family. Michele's warm smile will be missed always.My prayers are with you & yours during this difficult time. - Posted by: Lisa Clark (Friend) on: Mar 02, 2012
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Please accept our deepest condolences. Our hearts go out to all of you at this very sad time. Michele was a wonderful, kind and loving person, these attributes are reflected in her children and husband. She will never be forgotten. - Posted by: Morris & Deb Semkowski (Friend) on: Mar 02, 2012
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Dear Doug and family, we were shocked and saddened to hear from Gil of your loss of Michelle. Please know that there are many people praying and sending out thoughts of love to all of you, with sympathy, Joe and Sharon LaBine - Posted by: Joe and Sharon LaBine (Gil's brother and wife) on: Mar 02, 2012
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My heartfelt, deepest sympathy is sent to you and your family, Doug. I cannot begin to fathom the heartache and sadness you are feeling. Please be strong and remember all the people who are holding you in their prayers, even those you have not been in contact for many years. God Bless you all and may peace be with you. - Posted by: Diana Sokolowsk (Kishynski) () on: Mar 02, 2012
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To all family members of Michelle Smith: We were very sorry to hear of the accidental and tragic passing of your dear loved one. Please accept our thoughts and prayers for your families. Michelle will be dearly missed but NEVER forgotten. - Posted by: Maurice & Bev Basset (friends and neighbours (Aactive Coin)) on: Mar 02, 2012
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Our thoughts and prayers are with Doug and family. - Posted by: Mike Manaigre and Gayleen Haw () on: Mar 02, 2012
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Doug and family and to the entire Gauthier clan, please accept my sincerest condolences on the tragic passing of Michele. I cannot begin to fathom the ache you are now feeling but please know that I am thinking of you as you deal with all the various emotions your are no doubt going through. As your former account manager, I always enjoyed my interactions with Michele and her quick and succinct approach to business matters. I apologize that I will not be able to personally attend her memorial service as we are out of the country but know that I will be there in thought. - Posted by: Marcel Normandeau (Friend ) on: Mar 02, 2012