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MARCEL BONNEAU


Many people think they have the best Dad, sadly they are wrong, because we did have the best Dad, Grandfather and Great-Grandfather! We lost our dad, Marcel Bonneau on April 19, 2024, in the wee hours of the morning. He left gently to join his beloved wife, Ernestine, his namesake niece Mollie Marcelle Moir and his daughter-in-law, Pauline Duncan Bonneau.

Marcel leaves his children: Delle, Lauranne and Marc; his grandchildren: Lindsay, Devon, Taira and Arthur; and his great-grandchildren: Cayleigh, Dax, Jacob, Elliott and Anderson to miss him tremendously. He also leaves some special family: Joyce Garner (Tanis and Dorice), Gwen Pattison (John, Jennifer, Derek), ‘young’ Cliff MacArthur (Ethel), Rene Wassill (Sarah), Gabrielle Bonneau (Caitlin), Kalliope Saras, Linda O’Connell and Rusty Rischuk.

Marcel met Ernestine on one of his first teaching assignments in Lac du Bonnet in 1949. It was definitely an ‘across a crowded room’ moment. By the third date, he shocked Ernestine by telling her that he was going to marry her. When we asked Dad why he chose Mom, he said that, for her as it was for him, family was more important than anything in the world. Ernestine became the yin to his yang, the nitro to his glycerin, the epitome of opposites attract! Together they formed a union that lasted for over 70 years. The two of them combined to nurture a family that was always first in their lives. And Marcel always looked at Ernestine and saw her as he did that first day, his beautiful, vivacious 21 year old bride.

Marcel worked as a teacher, principal, child psychologist, Normal School instructor, Faculty of Education Professor and finished his career as Dean of Continuing Education. He was a very forward thinker, embraced learning and technology and was a true feminist before the term was coined. Marcel provided a role model for men as the ultimate breakfast and cheesecake maker extraordinaire. His son, his grandsons, his nephew all make an Eggs Benedict that is out of this world.

The family would like to thank many people who have helped Dad in the last years of his life. They made that journey a very successful and joyful experience. Marcel loved the residents and staff at The Wellington, especially his dinner table companions who shared many intellectual and culinary experiences. His doctor, Dr. Brian Sharkey, who took over from Dr. Lloyd Bartlett and continued the exemplary medical care, going well beyond the norms of expected care. Shannon Grey at the WRHA and her staff of caregivers were so personal, got to know Dad and ensured that he had the right people with him. Home Instead Winnipeg, with JoJo and Julie, helped augment Dad’s care with an amazing loving staff. In the last two months of his life, we also thank St. Boniface Hospital (4E) and Actionmarguerite (St. Vital) for helping to ease his final journey.

Celebration of Life for Marcel and Ernestine Bonneau will be held on Monday, April 29 at 2:00 p.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society or to a pet rescue of your choice.

Chapel Lawn Funeral Home

204-885-9715



Tribute Link: www.chapellawn.ca

Make a donation to Winnipeg Humane Society

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 27, 2024, Apr 27, 2024

Condolences & Memories (5 entries)

  • The Bonneaus were exceptional neighbours with our family for many years. Ernestine was an inquisitive, caring and kind soul. Marcel was a most intelligent and distinguished gentleman. Their relationship with my parents was held in high esteem. Ever the mentor, Marcel nurtured and advised with wisdom. They left a profound legacy which continues with their exceptional children and their families. - Posted by: Cathryn Nykvist (Neighbour) on: May 01, 2024

  • Although he only taught school at The Pas for one year he was well liked and respected, and to everyone's disappointment he turned down an offer of a permanent position there. He took the time to give me great advice on selecting a suitable career although he was not officially a guidance counsellor at that time. - Posted by: Fred Barrett Woodward (Former student of Mr. Bonneau at The Pas.) on: Apr 29, 2024

  • I was saddened to hear about the passing of Uncle Marcel. Although it's been many years since I talked to him, I want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. My Mom was always very found of Uncle Marcel and Aunt Ernestine. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. - Posted by: Roger Bonneau (Nephew) on: Apr 29, 2024

  • I met Mr. Bonneau when I was involved with the Canadian Institute of Management and the Continuing Education Division at the University of Manitoba. He was a gentleman and a very well respected man. He was always interested in the CIM Program and he made an effort to attend every function held in conjunction with his role at the U of M. Clearly an asset to his profession and a wonderful person - I have many fond memories of times spent in his company. He truly was a good human being! - Posted by: Susan Rusk (Continuing Education - U of M) on: Apr 27, 2024

  • I'm am so sorry to hear of your loss. Your dad was a wonderful kind man. I was always so honored and happy to be included in his wonderful dinner party for new years!!! May you find peace in knowing he had a full and adventurous life, with so much love. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Love, Monique. - Posted by: Monique Korsch (Friend) on: Apr 27, 2024

Chapel Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery

Chapel Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery

4000 Portage Ave. (Map)
Ph: 2048859715 | Visit Website

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