LEVESQUE, Fernand 1936-2024

It is with great sadness that the family of Fernand Levesque announces his passing on September 23, 2024, at the age of 87. He is lovingly remembered by his two daughters, Marilyn (Arni) and Diane (Todd), as well as five grandchildren, Jake, Britney, Natasha, Zavier, and Lexi. Fernand is survived by his siblings Luc, Paul (Simone), Fernande, Antoine (Brigitte), Jeanette, Henri (Suzanne), Yolande (Normand), and Nicole (Richard), along with many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Sheila Haley, his parents, Antoine Levesque and Clarilda Blaquière, as well as his siblings Julienne, Luc, Fernand, Adellange, Roger, Régis, Lionel, and Simone.

Born in St-Alexis-de-Matapedia, Quebec on October 24, 1936, Fernand grew up in a large, close-knit family where the bonds with his siblings were akin to friendships. As one of many children raised on the family farm, he developed a strong work ethic that served him well throughout his life. His adolescence was marked by the tragic loss of his mother during childbirth. Shortly afterwards, his decision to leave the family home and farm in search of work in northern Quebec marked a pivotal transition in his life. There he began an apprenticeship as a welder. Through dedication and perseverance, he honed this skill which ultimately led him to become the proud owner of a Soudure Boisvert in Vaudreuil, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit.

In 1965, Fernand married the love of his life, Sheila Haley, in Matapedia. Their 56-year marriage was filled with love, companionship, and joy, as they both valued the simple pleasures of life, such as family gatherings and sharing meals filled with laughter.

Fernand was known as hard-working, extremely handy, with a keen interest in understanding how things worked, frequently repairing and building whatever he could. Although his education was interrupted in his youth to help on the family farm, his inquisitive mind made him a lifelong learner, pursuing knowledge through literature, documentaries, and travel, eventually returning to school and obtaining his high school equivalent diploma later in life.

Fernand’s adventurous spirit was evident from his bachelor days, when he and a few of his siblings drove to Mexico, living there for several months. Later, after marrying Sheila, they took a leap of faith by relocating across the country to Vancouver, a place neither had visited before. This move became the foundation for their family, with two daughters born during their time on the West Coast before returning to Quebec. Fernand instilled a love of travel in his daughters, taking the family on numerous trips across Canada, the U.S., and other destinations. Their summer vacations were filled with fishing, boating, and enjoying northern lakes, creating countless fond memories.  He and Sheila also enjoyed many weekend getaways together.

Fernand’s past-times included travelling, reading, fishing, playing cards, and caring for his yard.  He was also an animal lover. Having grown up on the farm, he had a deep appreciation for animals and their well-being. Family pets were treated with great care and respect, and were certainly spoiled.

Above all, Fernand’s family was his pride and joy. His greatest roles in life were as a loving husband, father, and “grandpapa.” He will be fondly remembered for his composed and calm demeanor, no-nonsense yet easy-going attitude, humble nature, as well as his kind and gentle heart. He will be dearly missed by all those he leaves behind.

The family wishes to express profound gratitude to his neighbor and friend, Sylvie Turcotte, for the visits, care and friendship she provided to Fernand, as well as the countless card games, all of which he sincerely appreciated.

At Fernand’s request, there will be no formal service. To honor his memory, donations can be made in his name to Meals on Wheels care of the Centre Communautaire des Aînés Vaudreuil-Soulanges.