Obituary
Ernest Francis Legault
Ernest Francis Legault, of Maple Ridge, BC, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 6, 2020 at the age of 89 surrounded by his loving family.
Ernie was born December 2, 1930 in Côte-Saint-Paul, Montreal, Quebec to Maria Legault (nee Considine) and Joseph Antoni Legault. Ernie’s life growing up in Montreal was filled with adventure and shenanigans that he would spin into tales stranger than fiction. In his early 20’s he began training to be a lineman with Hydro-Québec. Soon after, being an intrepid wanderer, he ventured West train hopping his way across the country and eventually started his lifelong career as a lineman for BC Hydro. His job took him all over the province building some of the first pole lines in BC. In 1971 while working on the trolley lines in Vancouver he met his best friend and loving wife Trish. After retiring in 1988, Ernie started his own business, D. Isle Services, and continued doing line work. It wasn’t until age 81 that he climbed his last pole and reluctantly hung up his ‘golden’ spurs.
Having a love for the ocean, boats and SCUBA diving Ernie and his wife bought a cabin on DeCourcy Island in 1977 where he and his family shared in many unforgettable memories. After retiring Ernie enjoyed going to his new peaceful getaway at Eagle Creek in the Cariboo.
Ernie enjoyed his daily trips to Haney Builders which usually included a side trip to the beer store.
Ernie was the life of the party, the centre of attention, a social butterfly, a comedian, and a charmer. He loved to dance and laugh. His positive attitude and never-ending energy were an inspiration to anyone who met him. He was a father figure as well to those outside his own family. Always grateful for the small simple things in life he had a strong work ethic and worked hard for his family.
Big E had a big heart and gave back to his community in so many ways including as a volunteer for the Salvation Army, as a peer in the Seniors Helping Seniors program and as toy maker for any child who needed a toy.
Big E is survived by his wife of 44 years Patricia (nee Yard), his sister Lena Beebe (nee Legault), his four children Pierre, Amber (Sebastiaan), Matthew (Alyson) and Caitlin (Erik), and his two grandsons Travis and Eli.
At Ernie’s request a party will be held to celebrate his incredible life and to honour his new status as a true legend. Details to be determined. Stay tuned via eflegault@gmail.com
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Ernest Francis Legault December 2 1930 January 6 2020 (age 89)..
Décès pour la Ville: Maple Ridge, Province: Colombie britanique