Although our hearts are saddened by the passing of Louis Phillippe Leger on November 25, 2020 at the age of 98, we are also filled with the utmost love and gratitude for this exceptional man. We are so honoured to have had Louis as a special part of our lives for as long as we did.
Louis was born in Moncton on April 2, 1922 to Anselme and Ada (Gould) Leger Paradis. He was predeceased by his wife of 35 years Kathleen (Cooze) in September 1979, as well as his brothers Rudolph, Raymond, Ernest, Gerard, Paul, Valmond and sister Huberte as well as special friend of 30 years Jeanne Belliveau.
He will be sadly missed by his sister Jeannine (Leopold Belliveau). Also left behind are many nieces and nephews, all of whom shared special times together.
The loss will be felt in so many ways but the stories and memories will be of comfort in the days to come for his family. Louis was "Dad" to Lorraine (Ray Gingles), Nancy (Hubert Seamans), and the late Patricia Currie (May 2020). He was "Gramps" to loving grandchildren Debby Cosman (George Robichaud), Jacey Dugas (Geoff Moore), Jaime Leard (Ben Allen), Jordan Dugas (Annie-Pier Beauregard), Kathleen Currie and Jeremy Currie, as well as James Seamans (Rachel), Mark Seamans (Shana). He was "Grampsie" to his great-grandchildren, who were his pride and joy, Jonah and Kale Leard (and their dad, Steven Leard), Jadyn Currie and Esmé Dugas.
Louis was a WW11 Veteran serving in Newfoundland as a Shipwright for the Royal Canadian Navy. He proudly served his country and upon his return, continued his apprenticeship as Carman for CNR. He resigned for a new opportunity with Corrections Canada from where he retired as Staff Training Officer in 1977. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Moncton Branch #6, The Riverview Veterans and Armed Forces Association and Immaculate Heart of Mary Church.
A shining light to all who knew him, Louis was a loving, kind hearted, friendly man who was generous beyond words and always willing to give a helping hand. He made sure his family knew they were loved and supported in every way. He was always present for his family and made sure his bags were packed for the many trips he took with them throughout Canada, the USA and Europe. Louis enjoyed a special relationship with his beloved grandchildren making memories with family times, sleepovers, regular dates to restaurants ("this is just like a picnic"), attending school concerts, and most of all sharing their travel adventures. His last big trip was to Bermuda for a week to celebrate his 90th birthday with his daughters.
His retirement was filled with good times riding his bike, visiting friends, roller skating, playing crib, cross country skiing and listening to Neil Diamond’s music. A favorite pass-time was his woodworking hobby building furniture for family members and boasting "another job by Louis". He shared many happy times with Jeanne dancing at the Golden Age Club, making new friends and travelling together. He loved his regular coffee meetings and his outings with his caregiver Marion Walsh. For more than 30 years he looked forward to his monthly visits with his favorite nurse Monique Godin, who always made him laugh and gave him special attention.
He loved his time at the Legion on Thursday’s for the Veterans dinners. In recent years he felt fortunate to attend the Riverview Blues hockey games and was proud to point out "Jonah or Kale" to anyone watching.
The family wishes to express a heartfelt Thank You to his friend Gaetan and all the staff at the Veterans Health Care Center for the compassionate care and kindness given to Louis during his stay. They are the Angels that walk among us!
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a virtual family service will be held soon with interment in the spring. His arrangements have been entrusted to Cobb’s Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 330 Whitepine Road, Riverview (869-2007). Online condolences may be expressed at www.cobbsfuneralhome.ca