It is will great sadness that the family announce the passing of Claude Desaulniers on Friday November 1, 2002, at Dryden Regional Health Centre. Claude was born on August 11, 1937 in St. Elizabeth, Manitoba. Being so small and fragile at birth, and the youngest of twenty-one children, Claude was known to his family as “Coco”. In his youth, Claude attended school in his hometown, and continued his studies in different colleges in Manitoba. He joined the work force as a gas attendant in Winnipeg. His first move with his family, led him to Cochenour, where he entered the mining industry. He then worked in Werner Lake and finally settled in Ignace, where he worked at Mattabi Mines for twenty years. (This being where he was given his infamous nickname “The Duck”). Claude continued his career in mining at Lac Des Isles, where he eventually retired. After retiring, Claude enjoyed working around the yard, adding to his collections and doing some accounting. He also loved to play cards with family and friends. Claude Desaulniers will be sadly missed by his wife Jeannine (Bouchard) of Ignace; sons Rheal (Bonnie)of Manitouwadge, Steve (friend Martin) of Toronto and Gilbert (Kim) of Manitouwadge, daughter Vivianne (friend Rheal) of Toronto. Four grandchildren Paul, Dondre, Stephanie and Jamie Desaulniers. Brothers & sisters Yvonne Jutras, Leonne Landry, Emile (Fabiola), Victor (Simone) and Raoul (Marie) all of Manitoba. Sister in laws Gabrielle, Rita, Lucille Desaulniers and brother in law Raymond Bouchard of Cochenour. Claude will be fondly remembered by all who knew him for his generosity, his soft heart and his great sense of humour. There will be no visitation. Funeral Services for Claude Desaulniers will be held on Wednesday November 6, 2002 at 11:00 a.m. at the Immaculate Conception Church in Ignace, with Rev. Monsignor George Bourguignon officiating. Interment of ashes at a later date. If friends so desire, donations may be made to the Dryden Regional Health Centre or Northern Cancer Research through the Dryden Community Funeral Home, 249 Grand Trunk Ave., Dryden, ON P8N 2X3.
