1945 – 2021
Although heaven has gained one more guardian angel, it is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dad, Gilles Fernand Duchesne, on January 7, 2021, at the age of 75. Gilles passed away peacefully after battling health issues over the last 5 months. He faced each ailment with dignity and grace and his strong will and perseverance gave him the strength to fight the good fight.
At the end of it all, God saw you getting tired and a cure was not to be. So, he put his arms around you and whispered, “come to me”. – author unknown
The loving son of the late Andre and Philomene Duchesne, he is also predeceased by his wife of 46 years, Marian Duchesne.
He will be sadly missed but lovingly remembered by his 3 children: Danny (Chantal), Darlene (Garth) and Debbie: by his sisters and brother: Louise, Andre (Pierrette), Gisele (Yvon), and Suzanne (Jean-Marie): by his 4 grandchildren: Kristin, Jean Francois, Alexandre, and Kyle, his many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He will forever be in our hearts.
We extend our gratitude for the compassionate care he received by the medical teams at St. Mary’s, the Lakeshore General, and Jewish General Hospitals.
We also send our heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff at Chateau Pierrefonds for the daily care and support he received. We are comforted in knowing our dad experienced “La Joie de Vivre” throughout his 4 1/2 years, at a place he called home.
A private gathering and service for invited family members to celebrate his life will take place at Voluntas Commémoration, 4695 Boul. St-Jean, DDO, Quebec (514-695-7979) on Sunday, January 24, 2021 at 3:00 pm. Due to the pandemic and health authorities’ restrictions, the gathering and service will be limited to family only. Those who wish to join us remotely, can view a livestream of the service that day at 3:00 pm eastern standard time. Access the link on the Voluntas obituary page.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Diabetes Canada (formerly the Canadian Diabetes Association), https://www.diabetes.ca/ would be greatly appreciated.
To express condolences, share memories and photos, please feel free to sign the guestbook.
Live Streaming of service 2:50 PM
Slideshow
Denis Beaulieu
January 13, 2021 at 4:51 pmLouis Riel nursing home(worker)
Darlene Duchesne
February 6, 2021 at 9:17 amMerci Denis pour votre reconnaissance. Cela a été apprécié par la famille.
Gisèle Duchesne Godin
January 14, 2021 at 11:29 amTo family, our deepest sympathy. He will be remembered and forever in our hearts. Gisèle, Yvon, Yani, Onile
Darlene Duchesne
February 1, 2021 at 10:24 pmThank-you aunt Gisèle and family for your expression of sympathy. Your message is very much appreciated. We thank-you for all your support, comfort, love and for being a special part of dad’s service. Your brother was truly smiling down at all of us!
Pat Lamb
January 14, 2021 at 11:48 amGill……is….now my friend you can sing and dance to your hearts content and you will have backup..you will be missed.
Darlene Duchesne
February 1, 2021 at 10:01 pmThank-You Pat for your expression of sympathy. Your message is very much appreciated by the family.
Diane Fortin
January 14, 2021 at 8:54 pmTo family, my deepest condolences and i send prayers. Diane , Guy, Alexandre, Samuel
Cousin Darlene
February 1, 2021 at 10:08 pmThank-you cousin Diane for your expression of sympathy. Your message is very much appreciated. Thanks for joining our family through the virtual service, as we felt your comfort and support.
Dino, Terry, Alec and Erika
January 15, 2021 at 8:45 amWe will remember Gilles (Pop) always with his sweet, warm smile and courage to face anything that came his way which he handled with courage . Heaven has welcomed him to join his wife and parents. Rest In Peace Pop.
Darlene Duchesne
February 1, 2021 at 10:13 pmThank-you our extended family for your expression of sympathy. Your message is very much appreciated. Thanks for joining our family through the virtual service, as we felt your love, comfort and support.
Louise Duchesne
January 15, 2021 at 10:48 amMes pensées sont avec toi mon frère Gilles. Maintenant tes souffrances sont terminées repose en paix.
Darlene
February 1, 2021 at 10:33 pmMerci tante Louise pour votre expression de sympathie. Votre message est très apprécié. Nous vous remercions pour tout votre soutien, votre confort, votre amour et pour votre contribution spéciale au service de papa. Votre frère nous souriait vraiment à tous.
Tracey vachon
January 15, 2021 at 6:16 pmWe are so very sorry on the passing of your dad, who seemed to fight extremely hard over the last few months, especially.
It’s always difficult to understand and accept, but he was welcomed into his new journey, with open arms. There will be no more suffering
May be Rest In Peace.
Tracey, Mike, Ryan and Vanessa xo
Darlene
February 2, 2021 at 7:17 amThank-you our extended family for your expression of sympathy. Your message is very much appreciated. Thanks for joining our family through the virtual service, as we felt your love, comfort and support.
Joanne Vrahiotis
January 15, 2021 at 11:33 pmMay he Rest In Peace
Darlene
February 2, 2021 at 7:21 amThank-You Joanne for your expression of sympathy. Your message is very much appreciated by the family.
Debbie and Phil Legault
January 16, 2021 at 9:51 amWe extend our deepest sympathies to you and your family at this difficult time. May all the beautiful memories you hold on your hearts give you peace and strength. Thinking of you all.
Darlene
February 2, 2021 at 7:26 amThank-You so much Debbie and Phil for your expression of sympathy. Your message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family.
Reply
Dorothy Duchesne MacDonald
January 16, 2021 at 12:06 pmPlease accept my deepest condolences. I have fond memories of Gilles from our childhood growing up. May your memories of him bring peace and comfort to the family. Rest in peace Gilles.
Gisèle Duchesne Godin
January 18, 2021 at 8:57 amThank you Dorothy, for your lovely message. Gisèle Duchesne. xxx
Dorothy Duchesne MacDonald
January 24, 2021 at 4:27 pmI watched the beautiful service. Some wonderful stories about Gilles. I met him many times in pointe Claire, before he moved to the Chateau. Always happy! blessings again to the family.
Darlene
February 2, 2021 at 7:30 amThank-You so much Dorothy for your expression of sympathy. Your message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family. Thanks for joining our family through the virtual service, as we felt your love, comfort and support.
Diana Porter
January 16, 2021 at 3:32 pmMy deepest sympathy to your family. May all your memories give you strength through this difficult time.
Darlene
February 2, 2021 at 7:32 amThank-You Diana for your expression of sympathy. Your message is very much appreciated by the family.
Joni Shapiro
January 16, 2021 at 5:02 pmWishing you strength and special memories to help you and your family through this most difficult time.
Darlene
February 2, 2021 at 7:34 amThank-You Joni for your expression of sympathy. Your message is very much appreciated by the family.
Louise and Eddy
January 16, 2021 at 5:36 pmDarlene, we were saddened to hear that your father passed away. You and your love ones will be in our thoughts and prayers. Rest assured that he will always be watching over you and your family.
Darlene
February 2, 2021 at 7:36 amThank-You so much Louise and Eddy for your expression of sympathy. Your message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family. Thanks for joining our family through the virtual service, as we felt your love, comfort and support.
Suzanne Duchesne
January 16, 2021 at 5:41 pmun repos bien mérité, Au départ d un etre cher, c est un peu de nous qui s en va . condoléance a la famille
Darlene Duchesne
February 6, 2021 at 8:55 amMerci tante Suzanne d’être une partie spéciale du service virtuel de papa dimanche. Cela signifiait tellement pour notre famille. Nous nous sommes tous sentis tellement aimés et soutenus par toute notre famille et nos amis qui regardaient dans le confort de leur maison. Nous sommes en paix en sachant que vous avez parlé à papa pendant les nombreux mois où il a passé à l’hôpital. Chérissez les souvenirs de moments spéciaux passés ensemble, alors que papa est parti en sachant qu’il était aimé de sa famille et de ses amis.
jean marie veilleux
January 16, 2021 at 5:45 pmsalut Gilles bon voyage heureux de t avoir connu et d avoir travailler avec toi a louis – riel tu sera toujours dans mon coeur . Dieu te bénisse
Darlene Duchesne
February 6, 2021 at 8:33 amMerci beaucoup Jean-Marie pour votre expression de sympathie. Votre message de réconfort et de soutien est très apprécié par la famille. Merci d’avoir rejoint notre famille grâce au service virtuel, car nous avons ressenti votre amour, votre confort et votre soutien.
Arty and Frank
January 16, 2021 at 7:34 pmDear Darlene and Family
How lucky he was to have had a family like his.
May he rest in peace
Darlene Duchesne
February 6, 2021 at 8:57 amThank-You so much Arty and Frank for your expression of sympathy. Your message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family. Thanks for joining our family through the virtual service, as we felt your love, comfort and support.
Tamara
January 16, 2021 at 7:46 pmSending all our love and deepest sympathies for the loss of your dear dad. We’re thinking of you all during this very difficult time, but know that he is in the most beautiful place for eternity – with God, in Heaven, looking down with his arms around you forever. May you forever feel his love and presence and may he Rest In Peace. Love, Tamara, Neil, Liam & Sydney xox
Darlene Duchesne
February 6, 2021 at 9:06 amThank-You so much Tamara and Family for your expression of sympathy. Your sincere message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family. Your words will forever resonate in our hearts.
Sylvie, Jason, Myriam
January 17, 2021 at 7:03 pmOur deepest sympathies to the family, may he be in peace. xxx
Darlene Duchesne
February 6, 2021 at 11:38 pmThank-you cousin Sylvie, Jason and Myriam for your expression of sympathy. Your message is very much appreciated. We thank-you for all your support, comfort, love and Sylvie, for being a special part of dad’s service. Your uncle was truly smiling down at all of us!
Cindy Charles
January 18, 2021 at 1:18 pmMy dearest Darlene and family. My deepest condolences. May he rest in peace. xoxo
Darlene Duchesne
February 6, 2021 at 11:41 pmThank-You Cindy for your expression of sympathy. Your message is very much appreciated by the family.
Reply
Margaret Keys
January 18, 2021 at 5:26 pmDebbie and Darlene and family, my sincere condolences in the loss of your Dad. I hope your happy memories of him help you through this difficult time.
Darlene Duchesne
February 6, 2021 at 11:44 pmThank-You Margaret for your expression of sympathy. Your message is very much appreciated by the family. It is so nice to read a peaceful entry from a longtime friend.
Norman and Loreit
January 19, 2021 at 10:13 amDarlene and Family, Our deepest condolences to you and your family.
Darlene Duchesne
February 6, 2021 at 11:47 pmThank-You so much Norman and Loreit for your expression of sympathy. Your sincere message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family
Francine Duchesne
January 21, 2021 at 1:02 pmFrancine Duchesne
20 janvier 2021 à 4:30 pm
CONDOLÉANCES
IL ÉTAIT UNE FOIS DES GENS HEUREUX
ILS S’APPELAIENT ANDRÉ ET PHILOMÈNE,
LOUISE, GILLES, ANDRÉ, GISÈLE ET SUSANNE
FERNAND ET YVONNE
DENYS, FRANCINE ET LUC
IL Y AVAIT DE L’AMOUR
DANS CES DEUX FAMILLES COLLÉES, COLLÉES
IL ÉTAIT UNE FOIS TANT DE SOUVENIRS HEUREUX
GARDONS EN MÉMOIRE, TOUS CES INSTANTS DE BONHEUR!
À TOI, MON COUSIN GILLES,
AUX YEUX CHARMEURS ET AU SOURIRE TAQUIN,
JE TE DIS AU REVOIR
ET JE T’ENVOIE PLEIN DE TENDRESSE LUMINEUSE
LUC, DENYS ET RAOUL SE JOIGNENT À MOI, POUR OFFRIR NOS SINCÈRES CONDOLÉANCES À TOUTE TA BELLE FAMILLE!
TA COUSINE,
FRANCINE XXX
Répondre
Gisèle Duchesne
January 21, 2021 at 1:24 pmMerci Francine, c’est très beau et sa fait chaud au cœur. Que de beaux souvenirs. ❤️❤️❤️
Darlene Duchesne
February 6, 2021 at 11:55 pmMerci cousine Francine d’avoir partagé tes beaux souvenirs et tes gentilles paroles. Votre expression de sympathie est très appréciée par la famille.
Valerie Robb-McKay
January 22, 2021 at 9:01 amDear Darlene, Dan, Debbie, our sincerest condolences on the loss of your father. It was a pleasure to have met him over the years, he was a man with a strong will and perseverance. His was lucky to have you, your devotion to him and ensuring he was well taken care was exceptional. Be comforted in knowing that you did your best. May he rest in peace. Valerie & Guy
Darlene Duchene
February 7, 2021 at 12:26 pmThank-You so much Valerie and Guy for your expression of sympathy. Your kind message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family. Thanks for joining our family through the virtual service, as we felt your love, comfort and support.
Maria Aloe
January 22, 2021 at 12:28 pmDear Darlene and family,
Sending you my deepest sympathy for the loss of your dad (grand father). May his memory give you peace and strength during this difficult time.
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 12:30 pmThank-You so much Maria for your expression of sympathy. Your message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family.
Sandy, Matt, Ashley & Miki
January 23, 2021 at 7:08 amOur hearts and prayers are with you. Gilles was a wonderful soul who brought smiles and laughter to many! He will be greatly missed and dearly remembered. <3
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 12:35 pmThank-You so much Sandy, Matt, Ashley and Miki for your expression of sympathy. Your sincere message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family. I will always cherish our special visits at Chateau Pierrefonds with nanny Margaret, you, my dad and me!
Eric Durocher
January 23, 2021 at 11:43 amThe Durocher clan joins in sorrow with the Duchesne family at the loss of their loved one, Gilles, our brother-in-law and uncle to 10 nephews and nieces on the Durocher side. For every major family event, Marian and Gilles could always be counted upon to be there, offering a special presence: Marian with her maternal concern and thoughtfulness, Gilles with his easy-going, fun-loving disposition and appreciation for good food. In these last years, Gilles still derived much joy out of life despite his growing health challenges, setting a good example for all of us. Rest in peace, Gilles, and God speed in the next chapter of life, enjoying being with those loved ones who have gone before us.
Gerry Jr., Eric, Kenn and extended family
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 1:07 pmThank-You so much to the Durocher Clan and Family members for your expression of sympathy. Your sincere message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family. Uncle Eric and aunt Marilyn thank-you for all your support, comfort, love and for being a special part of dad’s service. A special thanks to my cousins and family members who joined our family through the virtual service, we felt your love, comfort and support. Gilles was truly smiling down at all of us!
Jennifer Duchesne
January 23, 2021 at 11:44 amMes Sympathies.Repose en paix mon oncle.xxx
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 1:15 pmMerci cousine Jenny pour votre expression de sympathie. Votre message est très apprécié par la famille.
Lynda Scott
January 23, 2021 at 12:32 pmDearest Darlene and family
My sympathies and love are with you all at this sad and difficult time. Happy memories of the good times together will help you through. His spirit from above will watch over all of you and give you strength.
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 9:39 pmThank-You so much Mrs. Scott for your expression of sympathy. Your sincere message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family.
Tina Kokologiannis
January 24, 2021 at 9:40 amMy sympathies to you and the family. We are all living difficult times and losing someone you love during these times is not fair but knowing they are no longer suffering will bring us to some kind of closure. Giving you strength and love as we move forward. He was lucky to have you as his daughter, Darlene. May he rest in peace. Tina, Angelo, Michael, Tanya Vernoia
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 9:42 pmThank-You so much Tina, Angelo, Michael and Tanya for your expression of sympathy. Your sincere message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family.
ShirleyAnn and Mike
January 24, 2021 at 10:04 amDear Darlene and Family
Our deepest sympathies. Your Dad (grandfather) will live on in your memories. May you be comforted knowing that he will be with you everyday.
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 10:07 pmThank-You so much ShirleyAnn and Mike for your expression of sympathy. Your kind message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family. Thanks for joining our family through the virtual service, as we felt your love, comfort and support.
Karen, Tim and family
January 24, 2021 at 1:02 pmOur deepest heartfelt condolences to your family. Thank you all for being such a great example by how you took care of your dad during his illness. God bless your dad, may he Rest In Peace.
Love Tim, Karen and family❤️
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 10:14 pmThank-You so much Karen, Tim and grandma Jean for your expression of sympathy. Your kind message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family. Thanks for joining our family through the virtual service, as we felt your love, comfort and support.
Kim Casey
January 24, 2021 at 1:04 pmDear Darlene,
To you and all of the family , please accept my sincere condolences.
I was very saddened to hear about the passing of your Dad.
Keep the beautiful memories you shared close to your heart and may the love, strength and support of your family and friends help you through this difficult time.
RIP Gilles
Love always, Kim <3 xo
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 10:09 pmThank-You so much Kim for your expression of sympathy. Your kind message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family.
Melanie klachko
January 24, 2021 at 1:12 pmRest easy dear friend. You will be missed. You have left a mark on my heart I will never forget. Listening to the oldies and evening laughs! ~melanie~ Chateau Pierrefonds.
Melanie klachko
January 24, 2021 at 4:06 pmBeautiful service. Lean on your families and stay strong, stay safe. We all loved Gilles and we will hold onto our memories forever. Xoxx thank you for allowing a be a part of your service today. Xx
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 10:20 pmThank-You so much Melanie for your expression of sympathy. Your kind message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family. Thanks for joining our family through the virtual service, as we felt your love, comfort and support.
Sophie & Mo
January 24, 2021 at 2:31 pmDear Darlene and Family,
Sophie and I express our deepest sympathies on the passing of your loving father and grandfather.
You are in our thoughts and prayers during these difficult times.
May he rest in peace,
Sophie & Mo
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 10:23 pmThank-You so much Sophie and Mo for your expression of sympathy. Your kind message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family. Thanks for joining our family through the virtual service, as we felt your love, comfort and support.
D’Erina Lawton
January 24, 2021 at 4:09 pmDear Darlene and Family, please accept my deepest condolences . Your Celebration today was heartwarming- keep well
D’Erina Lawton
January 24, 2021 at 4:11 pmDear Darlene and Family, please accept my deepest condolences . The Celebration of your Dad’s life today was heartwarming- keep well
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 10:25 pmThank-You so much D’Erina for your expression of sympathy. Your kind message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family. Thanks for joining our family through the virtual service, as we felt your love, comfort and support.
Danny Campeau
January 24, 2021 at 4:15 pmA beautiful celebration this afternoon. My deepest sympathies to all of Gilles’s loved ones.
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 10:28 pmThank-You so much Danny for your expression of sympathy. Your kind message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family. Thanks for joining our family through the virtual service, as we felt your love, comfort and support.
Claude Lavoie Dorothy
January 24, 2021 at 4:17 pmGod Bless…Sing all you wish from
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 10:32 pmThank-You so much Claude and Dorothy for your expression of sympathy. Your kind message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family.
sandra hall
January 24, 2021 at 5:53 pmDear Darlene and family,
Please accept my condolences on the passing of your father and grandfather.
I know he played an important part in all your lives.
However remember and cherish those special moments with a smile a s he would want you too.
He will be watching over you and guiding you through these trying times.
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 10:35 pmThank-You so much Sandra for your expression of sympathy. Your kind message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family.
Nadia Abdalla Frabasile
January 25, 2021 at 9:44 amMy dearest friend Darlene and family,
We would like to express our deepest condolences for the passing of your father. May his memory give you peace and strength during this difficult time. May he rest in eternal peace. Gob Bless you and your beautiful family.
Love, Nadia, Giovanni, Bianca, Dahlia and Donato Frabasile xoxoxo
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 10:39 pmThank-You so much Nadia, Giovanni, Bianca, Dahlia and Donato for your expression of sympathy. Your kind message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family.
Dominic & Cinzia
January 25, 2021 at 11:15 amWhat a beautiful service for a wonderful uncle, my sincere condolences to you and your family <3
Hope to see you all soon! – Lots of Love
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 10:43 pmThank-You so much cousin Dominic and Cinzia for your expression of sympathy. Your kind message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family. Thanks for joining our family through the virtual service, as we felt your love, comfort and support.
Annette Daley-Butcher
January 27, 2021 at 6:43 pmDear Darlene,
My sincere condolences to you and your family for the loss of your father.
Darlene Duchesne
February 7, 2021 at 10:46 pmThank-You so much Annette for your expression of sympathy. Your kind message of comfort and support is very much appreciated by the family.