HENRI DESHARNAIS

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HENRI DESHARNAIS 1928 - 2001 On November 20, 2001, after a short battle with cancer, Henri died peacefully at his residence, surrounded by his family. Left to cherish is memory are his beloved wife Gertrude and son Robert; his eight children, Monique (Ron), Claudette (Doug), Helene (Rene), Suzanne (Doug), Daniel (Louise), Rachel (Maurice), Alain, Luc (Shirley) 16 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his dear mother Elise; one brother Armand (Claire) two sisters, Soeur Irene (pssf) and Soeur Amanda (snjm). He was predeceased by his father Ovila and one sister Soeur Lucille (pmsj). In 1949, he wed Lucille (Sabourin) and together they enjoyed their children and the farm life - first in dairy farming and later in grain farming. From 1974 to 1983, he was councillor for his ward in the RM of DeSalaberry. He later sold the farm and eventually moved to Winnipeg. His "retirement" brought new adventures: from his employment at the Delta Hotel...to bringing new life to furniture...to spending countless volunteer hours at the Foyer Valade. Henri constantly showed his love and pride for French culture and heritage: Follies Grenouilles, Cabane a Sucre, Festival de Voyageur, Crow Wing Trail, Maison Moise Goulet, lindification des Fondateurs de lAssociation dEducation des Canadiens Francais du Manitoba. Those who were fortunate to know Henri were struck by his humour, honesty, integrity, fairness, magnetism, joie de vivre, free spirit and creativity. He always forged ahead with courage and conviction. His openness, thirst for knowledge, love of communication and nature made him a truly exceptional man. He instilled the importance of close family ties in his children. He was prepared for lifes final steps and had an acceptance for the joys still to come. In Henris words "I am not going anywhere when I die, no. I am already there. All I have to do is shed my old clothes to live - more freely and more perfectly the God-given beauty of life that He only can want for me." Cremation has taken place. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 24 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Timothys Roman Catholic Church, 135 John Forsyth Rd., Fr. Gerry Ward officiating. The family expresses heartfelt thanks to all family, friends, neighbours and caregivers. Special thanks to "Dr. Mike" Harlos and his fabulous staff who gave their unconditional love, support and expertise. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Foyer Valade, 450 River Rd., Winnipeg, MB R2M 5M4. Salut Cheri, Dad, Pepere, "Moise" - we will always love you...Paix. The Desjardins Funeral Chapel in care of arrangements 233-4949; toll free 1-888-233-4949.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 23, 2001