Marcel Joseph Paul Desharnais

   It is with incredible sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Marcel J. Desharnais of Blairmore, AB who was called to be with the Lord while receiving care at the Crowsnest Pass Health Care Centre on June 2, 2016 at the age of 87 years.

    Marcel Desharnais was born in Pontiex, Saskatchewan on June 2, 1929 to proud parents, Joseph and Adrienne Desharnais.  From humble beginnings, he realized the rewards from hard work and to sacrifice for the sake of providing for one’s family.  His earnest and charismatic ways gained the attention of a lovely young lady, Jean Ennis, and on June 2, 1951, they pledged their love in marriage and raised their family of five children.  He toiled in the coalmines to put food on the table.  He also had a passion for tinkering and repairs.  Marcel loved to spend hours “at the office” otherwise known as his shed, where he worked on his repair projects, vehicles and the challenge of fixing lawn mowers until they purred.  He enjoyed tending to his yard, playing the VLTs, as well as dancing whenever possible.  Marcel moved to the York Creek Lodge in February 2014, enjoying his increased socializing and new friendships.  May he be forever remembered and dearly missed.

   Left to mourn his passing and celebrate his life include his children, Marie Bergan of Wynndel, BC, Jim Desharnais of Blairmore, AB, Karen Risbey of Calgary, AB; his 14 grandchildren, Tammy Gross, Aaron Pisoni, Kevin Desharnais, Carrie Desharnais, Kristy Desharnais, Michael Snow, Michelle Snow, Derek Desharnais, Justin Desharnais, Rachael Desharnais-Yates, Sara Desharnais, Robert Desharnais, Ryan Risbey and Nicole Risbey; his 10 great grandchildren, Laura, Brodie, Christopher, Jada, Tristyn, Kalilynn, Bentley, Luke, Desmond, and Emily; his sons-in-law, Tony Pisoni of Blairmore, Ralph Bergan of Wynndel, BC and Mike Risbey of Calgary,AB; his daughter-in-law, Lila Desharnais of Pincher Creek, AB; and all his extended family and friends that he made throughout his life time.

   He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Jean Desharnais; his parents, Joseph and Adrienne Desharnais; his son, Robert Desharnais; and his daughter, Lorene Pisoni.

   The graveside service honouring both Jean and Marcel Desharnais will be held at the Blairmore Catholic Cemetery on June 5, 2016 at 11:00 am.  Donations in memory of Marcel will be gratefully accepted by the York Creek Residents’ Association (P. O. Box 1050, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0).  Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. 

(403) 562-8555

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