VILLENEUVE, Paul (Connie)

May 2, 1937 – July 12, 2015

It is with great sorrow that the family announces his passing, with family by his side, on Sunday, July 12, 2015 at Health Sciences North Sudbury, at the age of 78 years. Son of the late Paul Sr. and Annie Villeneuve. Loving Father to Paul of Nova Scotia, Dale (wife Michele) of Ottawa, and Niki (husband Dan Proulx) of Sudbury. Proud Grandfather to Spencer, James, and Tyler. Pre-deceased by his half-sister Evelyn Stong (nee Villeneuve) of Sault Ste. Marie. Fondly remembered by his estranged wife, Murielle (Millie) of Sudbury. Sadly missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Paul will be lovingly remembered as a proud, strong, and generous man who lived his life to the fullest. Paul had a special place in his heart for his children and hometown and spoke of them to whomever he encountered. He came to live in Sudbury in 2013 to be closer to his family yet his heart and soul always belonged with the people and natural beauty of the Wawa area where he lived most of his life as a miner, doing carpentry, fishing and hunting.

Paul worked as a miner all across Ontario and took the most pride in his work as a member and Instructor of the Mine Rescue Team throughout his mining career.

Paul cherished the days he spent camping with his family and playing a competitive game of crib. He enjoyed travelling to Cuba and often shared memories of his many wonderful visits there.

Always quick with a line or a joke, Paul loved to make people laugh and maintained his sense of humour throughout even the most difficult moments. Paul loved to sing and will be affectionately remembered by his family and friends for the music he brought to our lives which will live on in our hearts forever.

The family would like to thank the Bayshore and Red Cross staff who assisted in the care of our father over the past 2 years.

A very special thank you to Dr. Lee Toner, Sheryl, and the EMTs at HSN for the kindness and compassion shown and for giving our Dad comfort in his final hours. Natasha, Aria – Paul had a special place in his heart for you both. Leanne Cronin (CCAC and staff), Pat (Maison Vale Hospice) – we cannot thank you enough for your tireless efforts to assist us in our time of need – God Bless.

It was Paul’s wish to not have a service.

A Celebration of Paul’s Life will be held in Wawa, ON at a later date.

Donations to the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation in Paul’s memory would be appreciated by the family.