HENRI MARCEL ANDRE MARCHESSAULT -

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HENRI MARCEL ANDRE MARCHESSAULT 1943 - 2002 Henri passed away suddenly while playing hockey on October 19, 2002. After coping with health issues for the past few years, Henris sudden passing occurred in the company of close friends who tried valiantly to save his life. A beloved father and friend, Henri was predeceased by his father, Major Marcel Marchessault. He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by his daughter Lindsey, the love of his life; as well as Merrily; his mother Marie Ange Marchessault and her relatives; his sister Rita (John) Parker of Maple Ridge, BC; his nephews, Lawrence, Raymond and Darcy Grenko; his business partner Jim Ellams and his wife Laurel; the David family, including Anne-Marie, Rejean, Manon, Luc and Leanne; the Marchessault relatives and many friends, too many to name. Henris customers and business associates were his extended family across Canada, and they will miss him as well. Henri was born in Regina, SK on April 25, 1943. Because of his fathers military career, Henri had the advantage of living in many parts of Canada and in Europe with his family. He graduated from the University of Manitoba with degrees in Physical Education and Education. However, he joined Fred Martin Agencies as a sales rep shortly after completing university. This decision proved to be a permanent career path that led to the establishment of his company, Henri Marchessault Agencies Ltd., twelve years ago. He and Jim Ellams had a successful partnership based on their respect, loyalty and friendship. Henri was a very energetic and charismatic person who made friends wherever he went. His work enabled him to regularly visit customers and offer his encouragement, advice and support. He was instrumental in supporting the careers of many athletes. His advice was always sterling and well worth listening to. Mostly, he was an outstanding father to Lindsey, the best father ever. Henri loved his work intensely because of his genuine love of people and sports. Henri was also actively involved in the community, most recently serving on the board of directors at St. Marys Academy. In addition, Henri served on the board of the Canadian Sporting Goods Association. Henri was also a natural athlete excelling in skiing, tennis, racquetball, squash and hockey. Throughout the trying times of the past year, Henri gained strength and support from his many friends (so many that we are sorry we cannot mention all) including, Kevin and Tracy Neiles, Scott and Carla Neiles, Boyd and Krista Craig, Nick and Enza Conicello, Leon Mowchun, George and Gail Johnson, John and Bev Bristow, John and Donna Manchulenko, Louis and Hildy Parks, his hockey teammates and the guys upstairs; as well as his daughter, Lindsey, whose friendship with him gave her as much strength as it gave him. And last but not least, children played a major role in Henris life. He was often known as "Uncle Henri". Henri will be sadly missed by his "little" buddies. The family extends a very special thanks to the Winnipeg Jest Hockey Club, the emergency staff at the Victoria Hospital, Dr. Kathy Pickard, Dr. Cliff Yaffe. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Childrens Wish Foundation. Viewing will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 24, at St. Vital Parish, 1629 Pembina Hwy., with funeral mass to follow at 10:30 a.m., presided by Rev. Dr. Morand and Fr. Joseph MacLean. Service will terminate at the church with cremation to follow. The Desjardins Funeral Chapel in care of arrangements, 233-4949 or toll free 1-888-233-4949.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 23, 2002