1921–2025
Surrounded by family, Dad passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at the Parkwood Veterans Care Facility at the age of 103. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, he lived a life defined by kindness, resilience, and unwavering love.
Beloved husband of the late Madeline (Theriault), and the proud father of Robert (Nicolene), Jeanne Cornell (late Tom), David, Thomas (Sharon), William, Mary Chessman (Tom), Philip (late Jeanna, friend Kelly), and James. His cherished grandchildren - Stephen (Sarah), Matthew (Brianna), Philip (Melissa), Stephanie (Mike), Kathryn (Adrian), Alison, Jamie, Brendan, Mark (Christina), John, Rebecca (Stefan), Kelly and Jack (Sarah) - carry on his legacy, along with great-grandchildren Olivia, Everly, Benjamin, Vincent, Hudson, Ryan, Liam, and Josephine. Half brother of Marie Thimot, late Alyre Comeau, Gustave Comeau and Ruth Kenney. Brother-in-law of the late Father Phil Theriault, late Gene and Margaret Theriault, late Father Frank Theriault, late Marie and Bill Taylor, late John and Ann Theriault, late Brendan and Dorothy Theriault. Close friend of Jim and Betty Cherry.
Born in the French Acadian fishing village of Lower Saulnierville, Nova Scotia, Dad lost his father Benjamin at six months old and was raised by his mother, Emily and his uncle Elzear. Working the farm from a young age, he developed a deep work ethic and an appreciation for life’s simple joys. Educated at Sainte-Anne boarding school, he entered adulthood with strong values of faith, family, and perseverance.
At 18, he enlisted in the West 27th Nova Scotia Regiment, serving the entirety of World War II with quiet courage. Like so many of his generation, he spoke little of his war experiences, yet his strength and humility spoke volumes.
After the war, life led him to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, where he met Mom. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and the joy of raising eight children, surrounded by extended family and lifelong friends.
Dad enjoyed a successful career in mining sales, but his true passion was people. With an infectious smile and a kind word for everyone, he had that rare ability to turn strangers into friends. Whether sharing a story during ‘happy hour’, telling a joke (and laughing hardest at his own punchlines), watching a hockey game, or tinkering on a backyard project, he brought warmth and light into every moment. He will be greatly missed.
Family and friends are invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Thursday, March 13, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Service in the Chapel at 12:00 noon with Father Jeff Shannon officiating. Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Parkwood Veterans Care would be greatly appreciated. https://www.sjhc.london.on.ca/ways-to-give/donate-now. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be offered at www.northwoodfuneral.com