It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jean-Marie Joseph Rivard on February 10, 2021, at the age of 90 years. Jean was born in Stratford Quebec on November 30, 1930, the son of Marie-Laetitia (Beliveau) and Joseph Aime Rivard. As a young man he left home and travelled from Quebec to Ontario working in many occupations. He picked tobacco, was a linesman for a power company, worked as a laborer in construction and cut pulp.
His work brought him to the Port Arthur area in the early 1950’s. After a work accident in the mid 1950’s he met the love of his life, Carole Heritage. They were married in 1962 and together they raised two sons. After he was married he did his apprenticeship in plumbing and steam fitting, of which he was a U.A. Local 628 member for 50+ years. He later started a construction business, and operated it for 11 years before retiring.
He was always happy when he was busy. He built a camp on Hawkeye Lake, renovated his home in Thunder Bay and in Florida and there was always a project on the go in his garage. He was generous and the first to help out others in need. In retirement he enjoyed golfing and travelling with Carole throughout the USA, and to places like Australia, Hong Kong, Africa, and the Caribbean. Jean was strong willed and resilient and never slowed down for a day.
He will be lovingly remembered by his sons Reginald and Mark (Lisa), grandchildren Connor, Garrett and Kilee, sister, Julie, brothers Michel, Gilles and Marius, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Carole his wife, his sisters Claudette and Gilbert and his brothers Mark, Joseph, Felician, and Rodrigue.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions visitation with social distancing will be held on Monday, February 22, 2021 from 5-7 p.m. in the Sargent & Son Funeral Chapel, 21 N. Court Street. Those wishing to attend the visitation are asked to register on Jean-Marie’s page at www.sargentandson.com. A private funeral service for immediate family will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February, 23rd with Fr Francis Pudicherry officiating. Those wishing to watch the live stream service may do so, on the Sargent & Son Facebook page. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in Jean’s memory to be made to the Heart & Lung Association. Online condolences may be made at www.sargentandson.com.
