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Ernest "Ernie" Rivard
August 7, 1938 - September 13, 2016
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<div itemprop="description">It is with deep regret and a profound sense of sadness, that we announce the passing of Ernest Rivard our beloved husband, father and grandfather, at the age of 78. He fought a courageous battle with Parkinson’s and cancer, having lived his life with dignity, grace and courage. He had a wonderful sense of humour and was generous to a fault.<br><br>He leaves to mourn his passing, his beloved wife Diane of 53 years, their children Gerald and Nicole, and his most precious and treasured granddaughter Dominique, who brought much joy to his life. He was so very proud of all of her accomplishments.<br><br>He also leaves behind three sisters Thérèse Vaillancort, Lucille St. Hilaire (Noel), and Evelyn Pelletier (Ben) and one brother, Marcel Rivard (Pat), numerous sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews.<br><br>He was predeceased by his parents, Alfred and Hermine, his brother Albert, and his sister Doris Cyr.<br><br>Ernie was born in Ste. Elizabeth, MB in 1938 to Alfred Rivard and Hermine Malo. He was one of eight children. He joined the Royal Canadian Navy at age 17, which gave him the opportunity to travel to many ports of the world.<br><br>After his release from the Navy, he worked across Canada on the Pipeline as a welder. He married the love of his life in 1963 and they started their family with a son, Gerald, and a daughter, Nicole. Ernie worked at various jobs learning different skills and trades and always had a part time job on the side to help supplement their family income. He later went to work for the Greater Winnipeg Gas Co. which became Centra Gas, where he remained until his retirement in 1999. <br><br>Ernie spent many years enjoying his weekends and holidays with his family and friends at his cottage where he learned to hone his skills as a carpenter, electrician, plumber, and any job required of him. He was always willing to help his cottage friends with any jobs they might need a hand with. <br><br>After his retirement, he and Diane fulfilled a lifelong dream of moving to the Okanagan Valley in beautiful BC, and to be closer to their daughter and her family. They built a new home and moved to Kelowna in 1999 where they enjoyed 11 years surrounded by orchards, breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake, the mountains and spectacular gardens and mild temperatures. They made many new friends and travelled throughout that beautiful province.<br><br>In 2010, as his illness progressed, both he and Diane decided to move back to Winnipeg. His greatest joys were simple, namely the love and loyalty of those nearest and dearest to him. The many quiet Sundays spent with his son meant a great deal to him and brought him comfort at a time when his health was deteriorating. He will be remembered for his positive outlook, integrity, generosity and the good hearty laughs he shared with many.<br><br>Eulogy will be at 12:50 p.m followed by funeral mass at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, September 16, 2016 at Saints-Martyrs-Canadiens Parish, 289 Dussault Avenue. A private interment will be held at Green Acres Cemetery.<br><br>The family wishes to express it’s grateful appreciation to the staff of Foyer Valade for their gentle, loving care of Ernie. A special thanks to Natalie and Ingrid.<br><br></div>