Eleanor Ann Bellefleur (née McGinn) departed her loving family on March 4, 2021, aged 91. Eleanor was predeceased by her parents, James and Margaret McGinn, siblings, Aimee, Bill, Margaret, and Gerald, oldest son, Glenn, and son-in-law, Rick. Eleanor is survived by her beloved husband of 70 years, Joe. Eleanor’s nine surviving children and their families include: Joanne (Dan) – children Chris and Alexis; Denis (Suzie) – children Patrick, Kelly, Kristin, and Jackie; Colleen Meyer (Wayne) – children Bryan, Karl, and Carmen; Claude (Lynne) – children Chance, Chloe, Raquel, and Mitch; Cathy Longstaff (Allan) – children Roxanne, Dan, Pierre, and Monique; Norm; Paul – children Stephanie and Jennifer; Mary Arguin (Marcel) – children Jeffrey and Jasmine; Mark; as well as 22 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Family was always a priority for Mom; the big gatherings brought her much joy despite the extra work, but she treasured her one-on-one time with each child and grandchild as well. She unwound from the daily busyness with gardening (especially her flowers), knitting, sewing (late into the night), and reading. Mom loved the farm life and was keenly interested in each year’s stages of land preparation, seeding, and harvesting. Taking meals out to the field was a big undertaking, but we all treasure the memories of those rough picnics. Mom was committed to her community and parish, taking on positions with the local school board, home care board, Ladies of the Parish, liturgical committee, and especially the Catholic Women’s League (at the local and diocesan levels). Together, Mom and Dad expanded their faith through training and service with many programs: Young Voyageurs, Bosco Homes, the diocesan lay ministry and marriage prep programs, Serena Canada, and Marriage Encounter Canada. They also spent many years planning, leading, and participating in parish music ministry and entertaining in care homes wherever they found themselves. Their deep love for travel took them to all corners of North America, Mexico, and into Europe. All of these travels involved visiting family and friends along the way and creating instant, deep, new friendships. Mom and Dad’s home was always filled with people: friends and family making sure to stop by on their way to somewhere and new friends welcomed in at the earliest opportunity. The family is forever grateful to the staff and residents at Chateau St. Michael’s for their genuine friendship and tender care. A funeral mass is planned for a future date when conditions allow.
In living memory of Eleanor a memorial planting will be made by Jones - Parkview Funeral Services. Please sign the memorial register at website: www.wjjonesandson.com or www.parkviewfuneralchapel.ca (Obituaries).
