MATHIEU, Jean ‘John’

 It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our dear “Pépère,” Jean Mathieu, at Sault Area Hospital on Saturday, July 22, 2017, in his 95th year. Jean, known to many as John, spent his final days surrounded by his loving “p’tite famille.”  A cherished husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, he was predeceased by his loving wife of 60 years, Armelle Boucher Mathieu, his adored daughter, Diane Conway, and infant son, Normand. Dear father-in-law of Richard Conway (Susy), Jean was always quick with a joke and loved to laugh. Most devoted Pépère to his treasured grandchildren, Cathy Dupuis (Mike) and Brian Conway (Julie Maltais), he was ever-willing to paint a new home for us, to share a “conte,” to provide a warm smile or a listening ear, and to impart valued words of wisdom. Doting and loved Pépère of four great-grandchildren, Reilan and Daphné Dupuis, and Devon and Allison Conway; Jean took great pride in their accomplishments and loved to play cards with them, to play hide-&-seek, to watch their hockey games, swim meets, and dance recitals. He was always sure to have their favourite treats on hand, and looked forward to our frequent family dinner gatherings. Born in St-Eugene-de-Guigues, Quebec, to parents Alfred and Cecile (LaPlante) Mathieu, Jean grew up a farm boy before heading to work in the logging camps at age 15, and then on to the gold mines of Northern Quebec and Ontario. He then joined his brothers in their construction ventures with a final move to Sault Ste. Marie in 1964. The housepainter for Mathieu Brothers Construction, Jean will be lovingly remembered by his siblings, Noël (Yvette), Léonel (Noella), and Daniel (Doris). Predeceased by his siblings, Jeanne (Willard), Béatrice, Philippe (Lina), Marcel (Thérese), and Adélard (Pierrette), Jean will also be fondly remembered by many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. As per Jean’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no funeral service will be held. Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Road, 705-9457758.) Family and friends are invited to attend a Come-and-Go Celebration of Life in his honour. To be held in the home he built with his brothers, and loved for so many years, 178 Plaintree Drive on Sunday, August 6th from 1:00 p.m.- 5:00 p.m. Memorial donations to the charity of your choice or to the Toronto Sickkids Foundation would be appreciated by the family.