Gilbert Beaupre, 1926 - 2007

“We walk by Faith, not by sight” II Corinthians 5:7 Joseph Raymond Gilbert Beaupré began his walk through life in St. Valerin, Quebec in 1926. As the oldest of 15 children on a small farm, Gilbert’s first steps were to the field to help feed the growing family. He took his role seriously and learned to work hard and to work with his hands. Those years forged that part of him which always helped others first before himself, often carrying the heaviest load the farthest distance. As he grew, his steps grew bigger and soon took him great distances away from home. As a young man he moved to Montreal. Then he found his way to the Peace Country of northern Alberta, settling near Donnelly around 1960. There he worked hard, kept his faith and was ultimately rewarded with Marie, his wife, and the gift of four children. Stepping into the bush as a mechanic in the winter and onto the tractor in spring, Gilbert was always industrious and responsible to his family and friends. He lived his Catholic faith, always supported the church, and helped build a community on Canada’s then northern frontier. Never one to keep still, Gilbert’s journeys never ceased. Always in motion, his love of travel led to many trips from coast to coast to coast, with Marie always by his side. Retirement from farming brought Gilbert and Marie to live on an acreage west of Edmonton, then in Morinville, and lastly in Edmonton. Gilbert’s journey on earth ended on November 28, 2007. He passed away peacefully in Edmonton with Marie still by his side. Gilbert now walks with our Lord in heaven; his journey will never really end. Prayer service was held Friday, December 7 at St. Andrew’s Church, 12720 111 Ave, Edmonton. Memorial service was held Saturday, December 8, at Connelly- McKinley Funeral Home in St. Albert. If friends so wish, donations may be made to Rev. Father Denis Hebert’s project in Nicaragua, Roots of Change Foundation at www.rootsofchange.ca 17533-106 Avenue. Edmonton, AB T5S 1E7.