Obituary for
André Jean Trepanier
A long-time resident of Hearst, Andre Jean Trepanier passed away on the evening of December 5, 2021 at the Golden Manor in Timmins. He was 91. He leaves behind his sons Daniel and Michael, daughter-in-law Karen, and grandsons Ian and Kai. Andre was predeceased by his wife Mary, parents Ernest and Robertine, and sisters Madeleine and Yollande.
Andre- known to many of his co-workers simply as ‘Andy’- was born in Matane, Quebec but spent his formative years in Val Rita, Ontario. Deprived of a formal education, Andre taught himself to be a heavy equipment mechanic & operator. He subsequently led a successful career in that field, travelling throughout Northern Ontario working in numerous road construction crews. Repairing tractors in remote, inaccessible areas, he was often forced to improvise, including fashioning parts in the field out of wood. Even after his retirement, he was constantly sought after for his expertise in repairing machines and even attended heavy equipment auctions to advise contractors on potential purchases.
A self-admitted “workaholic”, Andy was known for being the first at a worksite and the last to leave, often putting in seven-day weeks when working abroad. He was also known for his physical bravery and toughness. Andy could be seen climbing icy 100-foot dragline excavator booms without the benefit of a safety harness. At one job, he was accidently sprayed with hot coolant and suffered severe burns to both arms. Rather than go immediately to the hospital for treatment, he smeared ointment on the burns, wrapped them in gauze and went right back to work.
Even while on “vacation”, Andy found ways to work. When visiting his wife’s family in Bathurst, New Brunswick he ended up repairing the entire neighborhood’s inventory of broken vehicles, lawnmowers, outboard motors, furniture and appliances (from toasters to refrigerators). This was Andy’s idea of “relaxation”.
Andre Trepanier will be missed for his driven energy, single-minded focus and his sheer love for his chosen profession.
The family will hold a private ceremony for Andre in the Spring. Donations in his memory to the NOTRE-DAME HOSPITAL FOUNDATION would be appreciated. www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/fondation-de-lhopital-notre-dame-hospital-hearst-ontario/
The funeral arrangements are entrusted with the MIRON-WILSON FUNERAL HOME CREMATION AND RECEPTION CENTRE, 150 Balsam St. S, Timmins, ON
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Andre Jean
Trepanier 1930 2021..
Death notice for the town of: Timmins, Province: Ontario