Wilfrid Giroux

Wilfrid Emmanuel Joseph Giroux was born May 14, 1939, the eldest son of René and Marie Alice Giroux (née Morin). He grew up on the original family farm, southeast of Montmartre. His summers were spent working beside his dad in order to relieve some of his dad’s workload. He attended both primary and secondary school in Montmartre.         

Following graduation from Montmartre High School in 1958, Wilfrid pursued his Bachelor of Arts studies at le College Mathieu of Gravelbourg, Saskatchewan and then took teacher training at the University of Ottawa. He taught high school for over a decade, mainly French and History. Over the years he taught in both Eli and Power View, Manitoba, as well as in Margo, Rocanville, and Esterhazy, in Saskatchewan. Later, he worked in  operations at Cochrane Dunlop. Finally, he was employed by Our Lady of Victories Parish, maintaining the church and grounds, as well as St. Mary’s Cemetery.

On July 22, 1972, he married Cathy Reineke of Carmel, Saskatchewan. They were blessed with four children and made their home in Esterhazy, where they reside to this day.

Wilfrid was always tuned into the news and current events. He was an avid reader and a scholar most comfortable with a book in his hand—especially one on history, politics, or the development of our country. He loved pioneer stories. For him, happiness was; newspaper in hand, settling into his recliner with Buddy nestled by his side.

Music was a great pastime for him. He spent many a quiet evening listening to old time music by such musicians as The Carter Family, known as the first family of country music. As well as that genre, he enjoyed gospel and dance music. He was a 50 year member of the Knights of Columbus, holding various positions on the executive and participating in a variety of fundraising projects.

Dad kept close note of his children and grandchildren. He took pride in their development, their interests and their accomplishments, and relished each picture that was sent to him. He was a strong example of hard work,    thorough attention to detail and the meeting of high standards in all that he undertook.

He was predeceased by his parents René and Marie Alice Giroux. He is survived by Cathy, his wife of 51 years, daughter, Suzanne Chubak (Gordon, Alissa and Caitlyn), son, Michael (Cindy, Lucas, Dylan, Austin, and Faith),   daughter Yvette Smethurst (William, Ava, and Troy), and son Blaise (Kirstin and Chloe), brothers Henri (Florence), and Cyril (Mary), brothers-in-law, Roger Reineke (Linda), and Mark Reineke as a well as a number of nieces and    nephews.

He will be sadly missed, forever loved and never forgotten.

Auf Wiedersehen!

Bonne Chance!