Delphé’s Obituary
Delphé Charles Laurin, long-time resident of McLennan, Alberta passed away on February 15, 2022 in McLennan, Alberta at the age of 93.
Born November 4, 1928 in Vimy, Alberta, Delphé was the youngest son of Arthur Laurin and Delphine Tieulié. In April 1934, the family traveled by boxcars from Busby to a homestead in Kathleen. This is where his work ethics began as he helped with the chores on the farm and attended school until the age of 15. At 16 years old, he started to work at the hospital for the Sisters who had a farm at the time. Sometime later, he worked at the railroad shop, Northland Utilities, and various other jobs around McLennan.
In 1947, Delphé bought his first farm near McLennan, but never lived there. It was while working at the hospital that he met the love of his life, Anita Lachance of Guy, daughter of Fortunat Lachance and Amanda Brisson. They were married January 20, 1953 and raised eight children on a farm he had bought from Ferguson. In March 1975, they eventually moved into town where Delphé became known for his many skills.
Delphé was not only a son, a husband, a father, a grandfather, a great-grandfather, an uncle, a brother-in-law, a friend, but also a jack-of-all trades. From 1969-1977, he owned the bulk Gulf station and also did janitorial work at the public school for the High Prairie School Division. For many years, he was a member of the Elks.
Retiring early, Delphé continued to keep busy with a big garden, doing some wood work and maintaining the upkeep of their house as well as some carpentry work when needed around the Club or the church. He was known for his potato and raspberry gardens that were sold locally to residents and McLennan hospital. Being named recipients of McLennan Home and Garden Tiny Town award was a very proud moment in his life. Pastimes for Delphé included fishing and playing crib. He was also quite a storyteller, had a warm smile along with a twinkling eye.
He will be remembered by his children for his strong work ethics, his perseverance and his great attitude toward life which he instilled in each of them. Versatility, accountability, and responsibility in one’s work and home life were important to him and he made sure his children and grandchildren saw this. Every summer, the family was involved in wild berry picking…cream cans of blueberries, saskatoons and, of course, raspberries. Needless to say, he really enjoyed his ice cream with those fruits! In the fall, firewood season saw almost everyone involved. Sitting around doing nothing was not a way of life for Delphé.
Delphé is survived by seven children; Roger (Angela), Diane, Gilbert, Paul (Wanda), Suzanne (Eugene), Hélène (Terry) and Camille (Rose), his brother Louis and his sisters Marie Ouellet and Sr Yvonne Laurin, 15 grand-children: Jody, Carrie-Ann, Lise, Donald, Glenn, Daniel, Geneviève, Monique, Jacqueline, Christina, Derrick, Jérome, Ryan, Quinton and Jackson as well as 12 great-grand-children: Cole, Hailey, Sara, Cloé, Sidney, Gabrielle, Charlotte, Benjamin, Alan Paul, Louisa, Tristan and Caleb.
Delphé was predeceased by his wife of 57 years, Anita Lachance, his daughter Simone Fors, his sisters Olivine Lussier and Hermine Lussier, his brother Edgar Laurin and numerous brothers and sisters-in-law.
Our lasting memories of Delphé are simple: he was a hard-working person, a pillar of strength who never abandoned his support or love for his family, and who soldiered on, even when times were tough. You will never leave us as we all have fond memories of you imprinted on our hearts forever. May God bless you, Delphé, and rest in peace until we meet again.
A Graveside Service will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made in his memory to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Diabetes Canada or to a charity of one’s choice.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Delphe Laurin November 04 1928 February 15 2022..
Chapel of Memories Funeral Homes & Crematorium
Death notice for the town of: High Prairie, Province: Alberta