Claude Wilfrid Bonneau

He was born on September 2, 1932, in Willow Bunch, Sk., the son of Jean Pascal & Lumina “Roy” Bonneau. A confirmed bachelor, he remained single his lifelong. Claude received his meagre formal education in Willow Bunch, Forget, and Gravelbourg, Sk.

After his parents purchased their first half section of land in the mid-1940s (that of Ernest Lanbert 1½ miles north of W.B.), Claude, then a teenager, helped his older brothers Trèfflé and Pascal do the farmwork. In the process, all three brothers learned the business of farming. Around 1950, his father purchased Joseph Lambert’s half section, located somewhat further northwest from town, and straightaway sold it to Claude on good terms; it was good land, but somewhat hilly terrain. Claude sold that land in 1957, in favour of another half section which his folks had purchased (George Meek’s place) several miles east of town. He subsequently traded Meek’s place to Michel for Jean Champigny’s half section, the East ½ of Sec. 35, T. 5, R. 28, W2nd, situated a few miles west of W.B. along the road to St. Victor. Several years later, Claude built himself a fine bungalow style home on this land. However, due to poor crops, etc., the house was later sold to Henri & Sylvia Côté who moved it to their farm.

After his elder brother Trèfflé’s demise in 1952, and subsequent to his brother Pascal’s and then Philias’s brief attempt at running Trèfflé’s ranch, Claude decided to try his hand at it as a sideline. Unfortunately, it didn’t work out for him either, and he soon returned to a straight farming operation which he continued until about 1970. By then Claude had had his fill of farming, and he decided to switch occupations.

Without hesitation he took up the painter’s trade and, except for a short spell as a school janitor in Moose Jaw around 1972 73, he spent the remainder of his working life (about 25 years) as a painter. He was, to say the least, an excellent painter and was always in demand. Moreover, being a self taught carpenter, Claude built a fine bungalow style home for his parents in 1965, in Willow Bunch. He, of course, also painted it.

Throughout the years, Claude purchased several older homes in Willow Bunch which he invariably renovated, and after residing in them for a spell, these were usually sold. Two of the homes he purchased were moved to his hillside acreage on the outskirts of Willow Bunch; the first burned to the ground, but the second he occupied until 2009. He then reluctantly moved into a Senior Cottage in W.B., where he resided until January 2018 when he moved to East Side Court in Assiniboia, Sk., and later to Ross Payant Nursing Home (2025) where he resided until his death. His house/acreage in Willow Bunch was previously sold, before moving to Assiniboia.

After retiring in 1997, Claude passed his time gardening, doing carpentry work, watching wildlife do their antics, and listening to various birds sing their refrain; in fact, he built several bird houses to attract them. He also had a penchant for old cars, and a keen sense of humour. With a straight face, he would often spout off a joke or two to lighten the conversation and keep everyone in good spirits!

Predeceased by seven brothers: H. Albert-1919, Albert-1998, Trèfflé-1952, Pascal-2016, Florent-1971, Janvier-2022 & Philias-2024, five sisters: Jeannine-2009, Dorraine-1974, Anna-2018, Gabrielle-2011 & Nichole-2020, six brothers-in-law: Adrien Beausoleil-2002, Dale McIntyre-2010, Raymond Hering-1982, Bruce Paterson-1996, Vincent Hoffmann-1991, Wayne Eger-2005 & Allan Aussant, two sisters-in-law: Dora Plante- ? & Marie-Paule Laberge-2009, and one nephew, Paul Bonneau-2011. Claude is survived by three brothers: Michel, Lionel & Gilles & three sisters: Therese, Georgette, Colette and 31 nephews and nieces, etc

In keeping with Claude’s wishes, a graveside service and interment will take place in the Willow Bunch St-Ignace des Saules (country) Cemetery, Willow Bunch, SK on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 11:00am with Father Anthony Phung Tran celebrant. Lunch and fellowship to follow in the St-Ignace Parish Hall. The family takes this opportunity to thank all for their kindness and prayers in this very stressful time. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Bonneau family may be shared at www.rossfuneralservice.com. Arrangements entrusted to Ross Funeral Service, Assiniboia, SK

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