OCTAVE JOSEPH GUILMETTE

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

OCTAVE JOSEPH GUILMETTE Knowing the love of his family, Octave (Joe) left this world peacefully on Saturday, November 22, 2003, after waging a long and courageous battle. Dad was born in Ste. Rose, MB on September 12, 1915, living most of his life in McCreary (MB), Winnipeg and Sundown (MB). He served his country honourably as a member of the Regina Rifles in the Second World War, and with the PPCLI during the Korean conflict. Dad met his soulmate and the love of his life, Renee (Jeannine) while in France during the Second World War. She immigrated to Canada, where they started their family. Following his years of military service, Dad worked at Deer Lodge Hospital as a nursing orderly, retiring to the farm, and his dream, in Sundown, MB. Ill health brought him back to Winnipeg for the last years, where he could more readily enjoy his loved ones. Joe is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 56 years, Rene, their five children and their spouses, Ed (Betty), Marie (Ken) Grouette, Patricia (Brian) Smith, Joelle (Ray) Roeland, Liz (Albert) Keyworth; ten grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren, his special aunt Sr. Louise Gregoire, plus numerous relatives in Quebec, France and the United States. Dad will always be remembered as a gentle soul who loved nature and animals. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who taught us the importance of family, integrity and perseverance. His greatest joy was his family and we will love him forever. Mere words cannot express our deep sense of loss. The family wishes to thank his home care workers, the staff at the Victoria General Hospital and the Riverview Health Centre for their care and compassion. A celebration of life will take place at St. Emile Church, 556 St. Annes Rd on Wednesday, November 26 at 11:00 a.m.. Private family interment at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Joes memory may be made to a charity of ones choice. The Desjardins Funeral Chapel, 233-4949 or toll free 1-888-233-4949.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 24, 2003