GILBERT LAPORTE

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GILBERT LAPORTE

March 14, 1948 – March 27, 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gilbert Laporte on March 27, 2024.

Gilbert, or Gil as he was often called, was a pillar in the older St. Vital area. He was born, raised, attended school, started his hair salon business, raised his family, and lived his entire life in St. Vital. Not that he was unaware of world events, but what mattered most to him was the people in his community. This led to a string of long-time relationships spanning decades with his buddies. Gilbert was a kind and gentle soul who accepted other’s imperfections because he was humbly aware of his own. Socially, he could easily adapt to changes in plans and allow others to take the lead which made him a great member of any group. In the technological era, Gilbert remained “old school” preferring to visit others in-person and chat about their daily lives.

Gilbert, after attending Red River College, courageously started his own hair salon business, where else but in St. Vital. His business kept him connected to his friends and community members keeping him well-informed of how others are doing, listening to advice, and hearing about the best deals out there! He was still cutting hair at age 75, before his health required greater attention.

Gilbert enjoyed socializing with his friends, especially over playing of games. He was an avid golfer, almost every Thursday, which was one of the few activities that took him out of St. Vital. Although he did do a lot of camping when raising his young family. Playing pool, and in tournaments with his buddies, became an event that happened throughout the year. Social events brought him to another favourite activity which was food. Gilbert would try every type of food placed in front of him, and seconds and thirds was not uncommon. A great guest for any host!

Gilbert cherished raising his two sons and his influence upon their lives resulted in his two boys having the same passions as their father. From riding motorcycles, collecting coins, listening to music, or golfing. Gilbert was very patient when instructing others.

Gilbert will be sadly missed by his partner Leslie, his sons, Michael (Tracey) and Darrell (Michelle), his stepsons, Euan and Beau (Joanne), grandchildren, Ashley, Sean, and Liam, siblings, Louise (Eddie), Roland (Diane), and Yvonne (Brian), and step-grandchildren, Ryker and Jude, nephews and nieces.

“I will always be with you when I’m gone.” - Roy Orbison

Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held on April 25, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Travelodge, 20 Alpine Ave. in Winnipeg, MB.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Gil’s memory to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.

Tributes: www.GreenAcresFuneralHome.com

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 20, 2024, Apr 20, 2024