Marie Lagacé

Marie Ernestine Lagacé (nee Simpson) was born Friday, August 17, 1917 at Jasmin, Saskatchewan, one of 7 children. Ernestine spent her early years in Jasmin where she received her education. As she was growing up, Ernestine and her family moved to many different places and became one of the first settlers to set up their homestead along the river in Camperville. Over the years she worked in different areas, from the convents in St. Norbert and St. Boniface to working for Bishop Dumouchel, OMI, in Camperville. Ernest and Emmanuel were married Monday, May 11, 1959 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Birch River. After they helped raise Ernestine’s brother’s seven children, they then adopted their daughter Colleen. Ernestine really enjoyed cooking and worked as a Cook in the Manfor camp in Conlin Lake. After moving to The Pas in 1979 she would again work for the church and clean at the Bishop House when needed. Ernestine was an active member of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Parish. She was involved in many ways including helping out at functions in the Guy Hall kitchen when called on for an event. Ernestine was also a member of the Catholic Woman’s League and received her 25 year pin which was presented to her while in St. Paul’s. Ernestine enjoyed gardening, and would be busy preserving the produce in the fall, filling the shelves to full capacity. She would also open her home for the many priests who would travel in for meetings and conventions. Dad always knew when they were coming when the best table cloth, dishes and huge meal was being cooked for them to enjoy. Ernestine passed away Monday, January 16, 2012 at St. Paul’s Personal Care Home, The Pas, Manitoba, at the age of 94 years. Ernestine is survived by her daughter Colleen; son-in-law Wayne; grandsons David (Tina), Kevin (Jolene); 5 great grandchildren Keira, Serena, Aiden, Rayna, Karsyn; and many nieces, nephews, relatives on both sides of their families. Ernestine was predeceased by her husband Emmanuel; parents Alexander and Florence; brothers Adolph, Henry, Edward, Robert, George; sister Eleanor; sisters-in-law Joyce, Stella, Eva, Cecile. Mass of Christian burial celebrating Ernestine’s life, was held Saturday, January 21, 2012, 11:00 am at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Cathedral, The Pas, Manitoba with Rev. Paul Bringleson presiding. Music ministry was provided by Rochelle Rydberg. Scripture readings were proclaimed by Rita Hayward, Bonnie Sendecki and Lesa Nordick. Following the interment prayers at Riverside Catholic Cemetery, The Pas, family and friends gathered at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall for a time of fellowship and refreshment. Pallbearers were Wayne Collins, David Collins, Jack Simpson, Robert Cross, Robert Lagacé, Gary Lagacé. Honor guard were the Catholic Women’s League. Honorary pallbearers were all Ernestine’s family and friends. If friends so desire, donations to a charity of choice, would be appreciated by Ernestine’s family. Thank you to all family and friends who came from near and far to celebrate Mom’s life.