In Loving Memory of Lionel Joseph Bechard
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lionel Joseph Bechard, age 85, on Monday, April 27, 2026, at HSN Hospital in Sudbury.
Born in Britt, Lionel dedicated more than 40 years of service to INCO before retiring in 1992. He had a lifelong love of hockey and was well known in the community as both a baseball umpire and hockey referee. Lionel truly loved people and was a familiar, friendly presence wherever he went a true social butterfly.
Lionel’s greatest joy came when he became a grandfather. He deeply loved his granddaughters and was the kind of grandpa anyone could hope for. He taught them how to skate, trained and coached Ashley in hockey for many years, and faithfully took the girls swimming every Wednesday and Saturday. Carissa and Ashley meant the world to him, and he treasured every moment spent with them.
He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
Beloved husband of Liliane Bechard of Sudbury. Loving father of Thomas (partner Brian) of Markham, Bob (wife Paulette) of Sudbury, and Daniel of Sudbury. Cherished grandfather of Carissa and Ashley.
Dear son of the late Eugene and the late Ella Bechard of Britt. Dear brother of the late Ronald of Sudbury, Genette (husband Dennis Lamore) of Britt, Ray of Holland Landing, Georgette (husband Guy Poulin) of Holland Landing, George of Parry Sound, Diane (partner Jon Howe) of Britt, and John of Sarnia.
He will also be sadly missed by many nieces and nephews.
As per his wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no funeral service.