Jeannette Cecile Rempel (nee Lafournaise)

Obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister-in-law, and dear friend, Jeannette Rempel, on Wednesday, April 16, 2025.

Jeannette’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of many. Left to cherish her memory are her son, Russ (Marie), and her son-in-law, Bud Laliberte. She will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Kyle (Colleen), Darryl (Amy), Kara (Aaron), Cody, Robert (Ashley), Chantal (Derek), Mélanie (Luis), Liel (Anaïs), and Joé (Courtney); and by her precious great-grandchildren: Gabriel, Clementine, River, Jorge, Émile, Paul’hiver, Charleaux, Davinault, Addilaise, Dominic, Alexandre, Zachary, Matéo, Nicolas, Noah, Marco, and Emma.

She is also fondly remembered by her sisters-in-law, Betty Kintop and Anita Perry (Tom), as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Jeannette was predeceased by her loving husband, Jake; her cherished daughter, Jacqueline; her parents, Amede and Olive Lafournaise; her parents-in-law, David and Agatha Rempel; her brothers, Ovide and Émile; her sisters, Georgie Nyarady and Marie Blumm; her brothers-in-law, Abe Rempel, Walter Kintop, Mike Nyarady, and Ken Blumm; and her sister-in-law, Ellie Rempel.

Jeannette was born at home in Marchand on July 7, 1939.

She grew up on a farm and fondly recalled driving her father’s pickup truck in the field. Since she couldn’t shift the gears – her legs were just too short – she drove in reverse instead. As a young girl, she worked hard, always making sure the chores were done before heading off to school.

Many cherished memories were made at Cygnet Lake, Ontario, where time was spent fishing, picking blueberries, and gathering around the fire.

A woman of warmth, wit, and deep devotion, Jeannette was fiercely proud of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She lit up when sharing meals, telling jokes, or simply enjoying a Pepsi Zero in the company of loved ones. Her love language was acts of service – expressed through her baking, sewing, and beautifully prepared meals. Her cabbage rolls and summer borscht were so delicious they won over even the most hesitant eaters, and her tourtière was a treasured Christmas tradition. Her raisin, chocolate, and lemon meringue pies were eagerly anticipated at every family gathering.

She welcomed new family members with open arms, becoming “Grandma Rempel” to many. She loved having her nails painted and watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren play with her trinkets – especially her cherished frog figurines, which never failed to bring a smile to her face.

A skilled seamstress, she had a gift for quietly mending what was torn and offering comfort through the smallest gestures. She volunteered for years in Lorette, always eager to help and committed to being of service. Her dedication extended to her friendships, many of which lasted a lifetime.

You were deeply loved here, and now you are embraced by those who went before.

We will remember your smile, your laughter, your kindness, and your delicious food. You gave generously, lived graciously, and left us with hearts full of cherished memories.

You will be missed beyond words.

She is now reunited in peace with her beloved Jake and daughter Jacqueline, embraced in the light of eternity.

Repose en paix.

The memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. at Sainte Anne des Chênes Roman Catholic Church, 162 Central Ave, Ste Anne, MB., with ash interment to follow at Sainte Anne Roman Parish Cemetery.

Following the interment, the family invites everyone to join them for lunch and fellowship at Villa Youville, 15 Charrière Road (F entrance).