Lalonde, Roger Leo

In loving memory of Roger Leo Lalonde, 86 years, who passed away on Tuesday May 10 2022, at Maison McCulloch Hospice, in Sudbury, Ontario. He was surrounded by family and his canine companions Charley and Bisket.

Beloved husband of 62 years of Colette (nee Vincent) and father of Michelle Lalonde Watts and Lise (Dan Charbonneau). Roger is also survived by his two granddaughters, Rebecca Rowley (Morgan) and Samantha Watts; two great grandsons, Derek and Calvin Rowley; and by many nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his brother Wilfred (Hortense, nee Rioux) and sister Lucille Frappier (late Bernard).

Roger was born to Henri and Beatrice (nee Larocque), in Port Arthur, Ontario, on May 29, 1935, in the midst of the Great Depression. He believed that his upbringing in Northern Ontario, in the rural towns of Hurkett and Chelmsford, was idyllic. He experienced the freedom of an unfettered childhood, spent playing outdoors, surrounded by glorious countryside, in all seasons. He made lifelong friendships in those communities. Roger often related his memories of the events he witnessed, from the 1930s to the late 1950s, as a resident of the CPR stations, where his father was Station Master. He marveled that he had participated in a generation that transitioned from Morse code and steam engines to digital communications and electric vehicles.

Roger worked as a station agent for Canadian Pacific Railway, Sudbury Division, from 1954 to 1970.  He then moved on to Falconbridge Nickel Mines where he worked in inventory control and purchasing for ten warehouses, until 1976. He transferred his skills to Canada Post where he held several positions, until his retirement in 2000.

Roger was stalwart, and will be fondly remembered by his friends and extended family for his gentleness, charm and hospitality. He would often prepare a hot breakfast for a group on short notice. His fortitude, optimism and strong will were characteristics that persisted to his final days.

The family owes a debt of gratitude and thanks to many people; the hardworking staff of the CCAC, the dedicated registered nurses of Bayshore (in particular, Katie, Ashley and Kim) and Canadian Shield PSWs who all provided exemplary home care. A special thank you goes out to Dr. Walton and Dr. Pun, and all the wonderful staff in the North Wing at Maison McCulloch Hospice.

In keeping with his wishes, there will be no visitation or service. A private celebration of his life will be held in the summer. Donations made directly to the Maison McCulloch Hospice or Pet Save Sudbury in memory of Roger are appreciated.