René Vincent

1920 ~ 2012

Peacefully in his sleep and as he had always wished, Dad passed away on January 19 at the age of 91.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Antoinette (nee Boulet), his two sons Alexandre (Yolande) and Luc (Brenda), his daughters Yvonne Chevrefils, Claire Lemire (Yves) , Pauline Bourgeois (Paul), 17 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren with two more on the way.  Also special nephews Arthur and René, and nieces Alma, Annette and Léa.   He was predeceased by his parents Arthur and Claire, his sister Caroline, brothers Alphonse, Éphrem, Eugène and Carolus, son-in-law Alain and his precious little daughter Colette.

Born in St. Georges on October 17, 1920 Dad grew up on a farm working hard and learning the real values of life.  He was only sixteen when his father died, giving him many new responsibilities.  With the help and advice of his uncles, he and his brothers were able to keep the family farm intact.  He married the love of his life on June 24, 1942.  Mom and Dad would have celebrated their 70^th wedding anniversary this year.

Dad was a pillar in all of our lives, a model father and exceptional grandfather.  To pass the time he would often name all his great-grandchildren in his head so as not to forget any of their names.  Being sensitive and wise he always took time to listen to each and every one of us, taking interest in all of our lives.  A visit with “pépère” always left you feeling cherished and loved.

Dad was a good provider for his family and took pride in being a farmer.  His philosophy of life was “don’t be afraid to work” and “preserve your heritage so you can transmit it to the next generation.”  Being a goldmine of information, he was a real historian and enjoyed talking about the past and the good old days.  Even when he was very ill at the hospital, he was still sharing stories and some of his knowledge.

Over the years, his contributions to the community have been plenty.  He was one of the founders of the St. Georges Caisse Populaire and of the Historical Society.  He also served as trustee for both the school and the parish.  He devoted many years to the museum, preserving the story of his ancestors and beloved parish.

Dad was creative and enjoyed reading, playing cards (especially Charlo), gardening, cooking, playing violin, singing “les vieilles chansons du bon vieux temps.”  Dad we will miss your beautiful blue eyes, your hands that told so much, your kindness, but most of all, your stories.

Funeral service took place on Monday, January 23^rd at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Georges Church with Monseigneur Albert Fréchette officiating.  Cremation and interment will follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the St. Georges Parish, Box 31, St. Georges, MB R0E 1V0.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Hashem and the Pine Falls Hospital staff for their gentle care during his last ten days.

« Papa, tu entres dans la vie… »

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