Lucille Gagnon

Lucille Amanda Gagnon (née Pelletier)

January 24, 1927 - March 15, 2025

I was born and raised in Ste. Amélie, Manitoba during the challenging years that shaped a generation. These were difficult times as our family worked tirelessly through the Great Depression, followed by the additional burdens placed on our community and family during World War II (1939-1945).

In May 1947, I married Rosaire Gagnon. We began our journey together with very little in material possessions but abundant hope. Our union was blessed with eight beloved children: Arthur (Irene), Ernest (Patricia), Rene (Shirley), Daniel (Doreen), Jean (Kathy), Simone, Rita (Mike) Pinette, and Marc. My family blossomed to include 19 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren and I will be remembered by my sisters Jeanne Guillas, Simone Worrall, & my sister-in-law Leona Gagnon as well as my nieces, nephews and extended family members.  

Throughout my 98 years, I endured the heartache of saying goodbye to many cherished loved ones who passed before me-my husband Rosaire; my young grandson Luke Gagnon; my brothers Ben and Paul Pelletier; my sister-in-law Winnie Pelletier; and my brothers-in-law André Guillas and Bernard Worrall.

As my family grew, so too did my garden. Beyond the vegetables that nourished our bodies, I delighted in the beauty and vibrant colors of the many flowers I planted, which nourished our spirits.

Life as a farmer's wife brought its own rewards. The harvest crew eagerly anticipated my donut runs and savored the tailgate dinners I lovingly prepared and served in the field.

At 48, I pursued my dream of becoming a nurse, undeterred by the challenges ahead. This required obtaining my GED and temporarily relocating to Winnipeg for my LPN theory courses. Fortunately, I was able to return home to complete my practical training. After a fulfilling nursing career at the Ste. Rose General Hospital, I continued serving others as a Pastoral Caregiver at the Dr. Gendreau Personal Care Home.

Music was the constant melody threading through my life. I played the piano and organ, and both played and taught guitar, sharing my passion with others.

My faith guided my journey, leading to deep involvement in the ministries of the churches in Ste. Amélie, Ste. Rose, and Morden. As an active member of the Catholic Women's League, I participated in numerous fundraising efforts. My hands remained busy throughout my life-teaching 4H, crafting countless quilts, crocheting blankets, knitting sweaters, scarves, toques, and baby clothes. I decorated wedding cakes and, in my later years, found joy in paint-by-numbers and completing numerous puzzles.

Our home and hearts were always open, welcoming many foster children who needed care and stability.

Though my days were filled with activity, what I treasured most was the precious time spent with my family, friends, and especially my grandchildren and great-grandchildren. To each of you, I extend my deepest gratitude for enriching my life beyond measure.

A celebration of Lucille's life and Funeral Mass was held on Monday, March 24, 2025 at 1:00 pm in the Ste. Rose de Lima Catholic Church.  

Flowers are gratefully declined, please consider remembering Lucille with a donation to the Prevost Foundation - Dr. Gendreau PCH - BACKUP GENERATOR FUND, PO Box 60, Ste. Rose du Lac, MB, R0L 1S0. Donation envelopes for the Prevost Foundation will be available at the service or a donation towards the backup generator can be made at www.sterosehealthcentre.ca.  Please include "BACKUP GENERATOR FUND" in the memo with your donation.  

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Doctors, nurses and dedicated staff at the Dr. Gendreau Personal Care Home for their compassionate and attentive care during Lucille's time there.

Rest in peace, Mémère. We love you.

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