Obituary
In loving memory of
Simone Merchant
(nee Thomas)
Simone quietly passed away in the Smooth Rock Falls Hospital on July 18, 2020, at the age of 98. She was born December 19, 1921 in Driftwood, ON, the daughter of Arthur Thomas and Clara (nee Chalifoux).
Simone was predeceased by her husband of 46 years, Basil Merchant (1993) and by her only daughter, Barbara Nawagesic (2001). She leaves behind two sons, Gerry (Debbie) of New Brunswick, and David (Katja) of Kitchener, ON; two grandsons Douglas and Aidan, and one granddaughter, Kira.
She was predeceased by her brothers Bernard, Florian, Edmund and Maurice and her sisters Paumela, Mirella, Ethel, Aurore, Florence.
Simone was a long-time member of the Smooth Rock Falls Ladies Auxiliary to the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 305, having joined in 1952.
An avid curler, she enjoyed playing the sport having held the position of “Skip” for many years.
Some of her pastimes included gardening and doing jig saw puzzles. She also took great pride in maintaining her home (loved to paint) and spending time at the family cottage at Departure Lake.
Simone and Basil took Ontario Government sponsored courses in 1952, which assisted them in teaching square and folk dancing to adults and children alike. Throughout the years 1952-1969, they had groups in Smooth Rock Falls, Kapuskasing, Moonbeam and Cochrane. They also enjoyed travelling out of the country, taking many trips over the years.
The Merchant family would like to say thank you to Simone’s special friend, Hélène Poirier. The caring and support Hélène gave Simone over many years is very much appreciated. Thank you to her niece, Sheila Jacques, who was also there for our mom. Thank you to Dr. Lebel, Dr. Dave, and the staff in the Long-Term Care Unit at the Smooth Rock Falls Hospital, for all the care given to Simone over the years.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Smooth Rock Falls Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 305, would be appreciated.
Funeral Arrangements entrusted to:
Maison Funéraire Génier Gauthier Funeral Home
70 – 7th, Ave South, Cochrane, ON P0L 1C0
Telephone: (705) 272-5726
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Simone Eva (Thomas) Merchant, please visit our floral store.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Simone Eva Thomas Merchant December 19 1921 July 18 2020 (age 98)..
Génier Gauthier Funeral Homes Inc.
Death notice for the town of: Cochrane, Province: Ontario