Obituary of Maurice Gérard-Émilien Charbonneau

Maurice Gérard Émilien Charbonneau

b. February 14, 1945

d. April 20, 2024

DECEASED – Maurice Gérard Émilien Charbonneau, 79, passed peacefully in the night surrounded by loved ones after fighting through complications from a stroke.

Maurice is survived by his former wife Mary (née Horan), their three children Christine (Jeremy), Matthew (Catherine) and Chantal (Adam), and his sister Janine. He was also a proud grandfather to Avery, Ellorie, Sophie, Conall, Isaac, Hannah, Hugh and Naomi.

Maurice is predeceased by his parents, Bruno and Thérèse (née Dumas), his brother Gaston, sister Rachelle, and brothers Leon and Rene. He was a beloved uncle to many Charbonneau nephews and nieces, including Joanne, Claude, Nicole, Daniel, Paul, Jeannette, Raymond, Lauree, Mark, Paul, Edward, Eric, David and Michelle.

His family-in-law included Mary’s deceased parents George and Eleanor, her brother Frank and sisters Patricia and Gloria. He leaves behind nephews and nieces Ben, Meghan, Rebecca, Tosh (predeceased), Geoffrey, Jordan and David. 

A lover of life, Maurice filled the hearts of so many through his vibrant spirit. A longtime civil servant, he was co-founder of L’Arche Ottawa, and worked with several other community outlets assisting those with physical and mental challenges, as well as the hungry, the elderly and those seeking apprenticeship in different trades.

Maurice was also a musical enthusiast, lending his singing and theatrical talents to community performances, choirs and impromptu events in his senior living residence center. 

A former seminarian in the Missionaries of La Salette order, Maurice was a devout Catholic who lived his faith in many ways. Serving as cantor at various churches, he was involved with the Knights of Columbus and numerous other Catholic-Christian ministries.

The family wishes to thank the medical team at Hamilton General Hospital and the staff and residents of The Jacob Senior Living community. Maurice loved his time at the Jacob over the last two years. He leaves his earthly life having forged valuable friendships and having left an indelible mark on all members.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Knights of Columbus (Beamsville, Ont., Council 15999) and L’Arche Ottawa in Maurice’s memory. 

A funeral Mass with the blessing of ashes will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church (Grimsby, Ontario) on Saturday, May 11th at 12pm, with a reception to follow in the church hall. All are welcome.