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LUCIEN JOSEPH LACROIX
Date of Passing: Mar 03, 2013
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DR. LUCIEN JOSEPH LACROIX Peacefully on Sunday, March 3, 2013 Lucien passed away after a long battle with cancer at the age of 83 years. Cherishing Lucien's memory is his wife and soul mate, Josephine (Mercier), of 60 years; daughters, Diane (Doug) McIntyre, Marian (Iain) McEwan, Julie (Craig) Palmer, Dr. Eileen LaCroix; son, Larry (Jeanie) LaCroix; five grandchildren, Maxine (Greg) Wolitski, Jamie-Lee McEwan, Andrew Scala, Kimberly McIntyre, and LeAnne LaCroix; sister Frances (Paul) Houle; brother-in-law Joseph (Therese) Mercier, and great-grandchildren James, Hunter, and Efrem. He was predeceased by a son, Gregory; parents, two brothers, a sister, and many relatives. Lucien impacted many lives in Manitoba and throughout the world with his many fruitful years as a professor in plant science at the University of Manitoba. He will always be remembered for his friendly, kind and approachable personality, his love for the outdoors and the world of flowers, and his positive outlook on life. On May 14, 1929 Lucien was born in St. Louis, Saskatchewan. He obtained a diploma, B.S.A. and M.Sc. in Agriculture at the University of Saskatchewan. He, Josephine (Josie) and their young family then went to Ames, Iowa where Lucien earned a doctorate in Plant Physiology in 1961. After moving to Winnipeg, Lucien was on staff in the Department of Plant Science, University of Manitoba until retirement in 1989. Lucien enjoyed the outdoors. In past years, family and friends spent many weekends at "The Land", an acreage just outside the city, hiking and visiting around campfires. Lucien's love for fishing was contagious and touched many, especially co-workers. They will fondly remember happy outings to fly-in fishing resorts and portaging to wilderness lakes; frequently including his son Larry. Lucien was a lifetime curler and was very talented at growing exquisite orchids. He was a good listener and was often depended upon for the wealth of his knowledge. Lucien had a generous heart and gave of himself enthusiastically to family, friends, his students and community. His kind character was molded by his faith in God and he encouraged all by his example. Prayers will be held on Thursday evening, March 7, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. in Mary Mother of the Church, 85 Kirkbridge Drive. Funeral Liturgy will be Celebrated on Friday, March 8, 2013 at 1:30 p.m. also in the Church with Rev. Fr. Kevin Bettens presiding. Interment will follow in St. Boniface Cemetery, 917 Archibald Avenue. Our grateful appreciation is extended to Rev. Fr. Carl Tarnopolski and Rev. Fr. Kevin Bettens, as well as Dr. J. Werier, Dr. D. Drachenberg, and staff at CancerCare and the Riverview Health Centre. If friends so desire, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba, 675 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9. Richard Wojcik, Funeral Director of Wojcik's Funeral Home & Crematorium, 204-897-4665 www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com. "Dad, we will always miss your words of wisdom, your sweet laugh, and the sound of your piano playing. We say our final good-bye with all our love."
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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 06, 2013
Condolences & Memories (11 entries)
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I had just completed my PhD when I arrived in Winnipeg to begin my career in Plant Science in 1968. Six graduate students were waiting for me. Lucien quickly became my advisor and mentor. I accredit my survival that first year to Lucien's gentle leadership and coaching. We became true friends. God bless and comfort Josie and family. I will miss him. Elmer Stobbe - Posted by: Elmer Stobbe (Colleague in Plant Science) on: Mar 14, 2013
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I am sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. Lucien Lacroix. I joined the horticulture group at the University of Manitoba towards the end of Lucien's career. As my background was in botany, much of the horticultural field was new to me. Lucien was part of the horticulture group at this time and was very helpful in mentoring me in my adjustment to the new areas of teaching and research. He was always kind and thoughtful. My condolences to the family. He will be missed. - Posted by: Bill Remphrey (former faculty colleague at the U of M) on: Mar 11, 2013
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I knew Dr. LaCroix through my sister-in-law, Eileen LaCroix. As I think of him now, I recall his gentle manner and kindness. I think of his orchids and what great dedication and care it took to grow such exquisite flowers. I am sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with all of you. - Posted by: Cynthia Tai (Friend) on: Mar 07, 2013
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Dr Lucien Lacroix was a great professor and a dedicated mentor for many graduate students. He shared his knowledge and wisdom with all friends and colleagues. I have always valued his advice and appreciated his friendship. He will be missed by all of us. My sincere condolences and sympathy to his family and colleagues at the Department of Plant Science. - Posted by: Khalid Youssef. Rashid (Colleague and a friend) on: Mar 07, 2013
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A distant tribute from a 1968-1970 post doc student now in the UK who keeps in touch still with Lucien's technician John Merritt which in itself says alot for the comradeship of Lucien's laboratory all those years ago. I remember my time at U of M and Lucien's contribution with thanks and great affection. - Posted by: Andy Gordon (Post Doc student) on: Mar 07, 2013
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Mom (Fernande) and dad (Henri Mercier) always spoke fondly of you Josephine and of Lucien your beloved husband. Rene Mercier - Posted by: Rene Mercier (cousin of Josephine) on: Mar 07, 2013
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Please extend our sincere sympathy to Josephine and the family. We will never forget the kindness and friendship shown to us by Lucien when we moved to St. Norbert those many years ago. You will be in our thoughts as you say your final farewell tomorrow. Dr. Berne & Holly Jones - Posted by: Berne & Holly Jones (old friend and colleague ) on: Mar 06, 2013
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Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this time of sorrow. We really enjoyed our time visiting with Lucien, Josephine, Diane and Kimberly last May. May God keep you in his precious care. Love and prayers. - Posted by: Angeline and Loring Neufeldt and Family (Niece) on: Mar 06, 2013
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My sincere condolence to you Josephine and the family on the passing of Lucien. I will always remember his kind and friendly manner whenever I meet him. He always showed a real interest in you when speaking with him. - Posted by: Henri De Smet (Friend) on: Mar 06, 2013
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Our sincere condolences to you, Josie, and your family. We have fond memories of Lucien, his friendly manner and willingness to share his knowledge with others. God bless you and keep you in His care. - Posted by: Bill & Mary Born (Friends at S.P.E.) on: Mar 06, 2013
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Diane, Doug, Kimberly and Lacroix family. We wish to extend our sincere sympathy on the loss of your father, father-in-law and grandfather. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. - Posted by: Solange and Gérald (friend) on: Mar 06, 2013

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