Obituaries

RENE MARCEL LATOUR
September 12, 1929 – August 18, 2017
   It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rene Latour in his home on Friday, August 18, 2017 after a courageous battle with cancer, at the age of 87 years.    Rene is lovingly remembered by his wife Joan and children Joe (Patty), Dave (the late Mary), Ken, Wendy and Mary-Lou (Andy). His memory is also cherished by his beloved grandchildren, Valerie (Joseph), Andrea (Stephane), Leanne, Nicole (John), Mathew, Colter and Jacob as well as great-grandchildren Brooklin, Tobias, Chloe and Amelia; brother-in-law Don Cross and numerous nieces and nephews. He is also sadly missed by his faithful dog Porsha.   On September 12, 1929, Rene was born in Nipigon, Ontario and in August of 1955, he married Joan, the love of his life for 62 years. He was a career military man who served his country for 28 years while stationed across Canada from Victoria, BC to Shearwater, NS and numerous points in between. After retirement from the army, Rene moved out to BC where he could pursue his passion for hunting, fishing and hiking. Dad was an incredibly kind, compassionate and caring man who left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He would go out of his way to do anything for a friend or neighbour who needed assistance, whether it was home repairs, cutting grass or shoveling snow.   Dad was always very meticulous about his health and physical well-being. He took up distance running in his early 40’s and over the years ran several marathons, including the Boston Marathon three times. He also enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially taking long walks with the dogs. Dad was a wealth of knowledge of the natural environment. He could identify every plant, flower, tree and mushroom in the woods. Well into his 80’s, Rene looked forward to his annual moose hunt.    Rene was well known for his quick and mischievous sense of humour. He loved life but his main passion was for his wife and family. He would do anything for his children and grandchildren, for whom “Papa” was a true inspiration and mentor.    On Thursday, August 31, 2017, Rene’s Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. in Wojcik’s Funeral Chapel, 1020 Main Street at Manitoba Avenue.   In lieu of flowers, friends may make donations to the Salvation Army.      Wojcik’s Funeral Chapels & Crematoriums, Winnipeg, 1020 Main Street, 204.586.8668 www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com