Obituary of Raymond Joseph Prefontaine

Raymond Joseph Préfontaine of Medicine Hat, AB and formerly Lisieux, SK, passed away on Thursday, September 17, 2015 at the age of 74. Born March 25, 1941 in Rockglen, SK, Raymond grew up on the family ranch and attended school in Lisieux, SK. He continued his education at Collège Mathieu in Gravelbourg, SK and the University of Ottawa. After years of working for the federal government, a decision to return to his roots in 1981 brought Raymond and his wife Donna (nee Gill) back to his family’s ranch in Lisieux. For over 25 years he was happily immersed in ranching. His progressive practices and respect for the land were acknowledged in his being awarded The Environmental Stewardship Award in 2003. Although he was passionate about the ranch, his children were his true joy. Whether it was riding in the tractor, showing at Agribition, or running to hockey practice, he was most content when with his children. That happiness only grew stronger as the family expanded - daughter Christine (Sean) and her son Liam, son Mathieu (Melissa), son Simon (Cindy) and children Scott and Henry, and daughter Céline. He was very proud of the fine adults into which his children had grown. After retirement Raymond and Donna moved to Medicine Hat, AB. Winters in Arizona allowed him year round enjoyment playing golf and the company of good friends. When not on the course, he loved a good book and read voraciously. Raymond's COPD was being managed but in the spring of 2015 he began to struggle for breath. A quiet, undemanding gentleman, he peacefully slipped away from us while in care at St. Joseph's Home in Medicine Hat, AB. He leaves behind a large and extended family, as well as many people he cherished - friends from his College days, neighbours, fellow ranchers with the Saskatchewan Stockgrowers Association, friends from Arizona and from across Canada. Funeral Mass was held at St. John's Catholic Church in Rockglen, SK on Thursday, September 24, 2015 at 2:00 pm. Interment took place at the Lisieux Roman Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honour of Raymond to the St. Joseph's Home (Carmel Hospice), 156 – 3rd Street NE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 5M1.