Obituary of Gilles Monette

Gilles Monette of Swift Current, Saskatchewan passed away suddenly near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico on January 24, 2015, at the age 63 years. Gilles was born on December 6, 1951, in Lafleche, Saskatchewan, to Gerard and Cecile (nee Brisebois) Monette. He grew up south of Meyronne on the family farm with his brothers Roger, Richard and Guy, and his sister Marquise. Gilles’ childhood on the farm shaped his life with agriculture always having an important place in his heart. As a young man Gilles worked on the family farm, as well as on the farms of some of their neighbours. He later spent time in Alberta, mostly working construction with Nelson Homes. In 1973, Gilles married Irene Park and they were blessed with two children, Christopher and Suzanne. Gilles worked in various small town Pioneer grain elevators prior to settling in Gravelbourg when Christopher began school. In Gravelbourg, Gilles was involved in many community groups, including the Kinsmen and the trap-shooting club; he also taught Fire Arm Safety for many years. After Christopher and Suzanne graduated from high school, Gilles retired as manager of the Pioneer in Gravelbourg and shortly thereafter him and Irene moved to Swift Current to be closer to Irene’s mother. In Swift Current, Gilles began working at the Co-op Lumber Yard where he made many close friends. He and Irene had many kind neighbours in Swift Current who fondly knew Gilles as "Frenchie”. Gilles took pleasure in helping them with projects around their yards and homes and appreciated those who returned the favour. As Gilles’ heart remained on the family farm, he enjoyed taking time off work to help his brother Guy with seeding and harvest. Gilles was passionate about the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping trips with family. He was always very handy and with his ‘can do’ attitude was able to fix almost anything. Gilles cared very deeply for his family - he was a loving husband and father, and a wonderful grandfather to Caleb who he spent many hours playing with fixing toys, watching cartoons and coloring. Gilles always had time for visits from family and friends and, without him, time together will truly never be the same. Gilles was hardworking, determined and proud. By his example, Gilles taught those around him how to be ‘good people’ and faithful friends, and the guidance and support he shared with them will be treasured always. Gilles will be forever in the hearts of his loving family and friends and his memory will continue through them. Gilles is predeceased by his wife Irene Monette (nee Park) who passed away on February 9, 2011. He is survived by his son Christopher Monette, grandson Caleb Monette, daughter Suzanne Arams and son-in-law Jason Arams. Funeral Mass was held on February 13, 2015 at Our Lady of the Assumption Co-Cathedral in Gravelbourg.