Claude Dubois

Claude R. Dubois

With his family at his side, Claude Dubois passed away on Thursday, June 19, 2014.

He was predeceased by beloved wife Elaine; parents Albert & Florence; sister Germaine; brother Denis.

Left to cherish his memory are his children: Monique Nicholls (Randy) – Krista-Lee, Geordie, Lexi; Dave Dubois (Jasmine) – Desiree, Clayton;    Yvonne Dubois (Peter) – Ryan, Chelsea, Kitty, Chewie;    ex-wife and great friend Bev Dubois;    stepchildren: Val Fraser – Rhonda, Kelly, Maric, Kennedy, Branwyn, Cohen, Conner;    Greg Fraser (Pam) – Paul, Adam; Gerald Fraser (Dawn) – John, Sara, Leah;     Carol Houle (Tony) – Shyla, Logan;    and many brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, and in-laws.

Dad was born October 5, 1941, in St. Malo, MB, where he attended school and grew up in a loving, mischievous family of 12 kids. There was always good-natured teasing and fun antics that were sometimes life-threatening.

He married Bev in 1963 and they began their life together first in MacGregor then Portage, MB. They had three wonderful children and were the best parents anyone could ask for. Dad and Mom, even though they divorced many years ago, still had an amazing bond that we are so proud to be part of.

Dad’s main employment was as a mushroom grower and his skills were sought out by an American company. He had many other physical jobs during his life and was a man who others half his age had trouble keeping up with.

He met Elaine and fell in love again. They were married in 1992 in Park River, ND, and this was one of the best weddings ever. Both Dad and Elaine considered all seven of us kids as their own.

They eventually moved back to Oakville and then finally to their home in Portage. He once again worked at the mushroom farm. Once it closed, it was an opportunity for Dad to get his GED – which he did when he was 60! With this major achievement under his belt, he then worked at McCain Foods before he retired.

Elaine’s passing in 2008 was very tough on Dad and he missed her each and every day. He relished spending time with Shyla and his best buddy Logan. Their relationship was very special and unique.

Family meant everything to him – both his siblings and offspring. He had bonds with all of his nephews and nieces. Uncle/mon oncle Claude was always one of the favourites. During these past few days we have learned more and more about Dad and how he even impacted peoples’ lives he met only once.

We know him as Dad: a good man who would do anything for you (just ask Dave). He was ever optimistic and positive. He was very proud of his family and believed in every one of us. His sense of humour was second to none and something we will cherish forever. We each had a separate, distinct relationship with Dad, but all were equally loved.

Prayers will be said at 7:30 pm on Tuesday, June 24, 2014 at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday morning, June 25, 2014 at 10:30 am at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel officiated by Father Eric Giddins.  Interment is to follow at Hillside Cemetery.

As expressions of sympathy, if friends so wish, donations may be made in Claude’s memory to a charity of your choice.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  204-857-4021 www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com