Gilberte Champagne

Gilberte Champagne (nee Berard)

August 22, 1927 – October 22, 2026

With love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing of our beloved mother & mémère, at the remarkable age of 99.

She leaves to mourn, her three daughters, Diane Charriere (Rolly), Paulette Klassen (Murray) and Renee Dewar (Bob); grandchildren Carrie, Lise, Joel, Kyla & Brandon and great grand children; Sydney, Tamara, Julien, Amelie, Olivia, Zac, Paris, Oakley and her sister Yvette.

She was predeceased by her son Richard Champagne and by her parents, Mathias & Valentine Berard, her brothers, Roger, Gerard, Bert, Gilles, Claude, Noel, and Mike and her sister Lorraine.

Mom leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, laughter, and countless cherished memories that will live on for generations.

Teaching was more than a career for her; it was a lifelong calling. She began her teaching journey instructing her own siblings in a one-room schoolhouse and went on to teach at Marion School, Prendergast School, and École Howden all in the St Boniface School Division. Her dedication to education extended beyond the classroom. After many years of teaching, she returned to her studies to further her education, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to learning and to the teaching profession. Eventually she retired after many years of devoted service. Her dedication to education and the lives she touched through teaching were an important part of who she was.

Above all, Mom was devoted to her family. She was the proud mémère to five grandchildren, and a much-loved mémère to eight great-grandchildren. Whenever someone needed her, she was there. Whether it meant babysitting, travelling across the country to care for a sick family member, or simply rolling up her sleeves to help in the flower garden, Mom never hesitated to lend a hand. Her love was something you could always count on.

A talented seamstress, Mom loved teaching her family to sew on her old Singer sewing machine, passing along skills and memories that will be treasured for years to come. She also loved nature and all critters were her friends. At White Lake she was always seeking them out to watch and observe. Chipmunks and humming birds were her favorite. She adored travelling, spending time with friends, and playing games of all kinds, especially cards and cribbage.

Mom was a true social butterfly. She loved to laugh, tease, and she had a special gift for making people feel welcome. Family gatherings will never be the same without her. She was the glue that held everyone together, bringing generations around the same table with warmth, laughter, and, of course, her famous shmoo cakes.

To those who knew and loved her, she was so much more than a mother and mémère. She was a source of comfort, a helping hand, a trusted friend, and a wonderful spirit who made life a little brighter for everyone around her.

Mom, Mémère, your love has woven itself into the fabric of our family, just as surely as the many things you lovingly stitched together over the years. The lessons you taught, the laughter you shared, the kindness you showed, and the memories you created will remain with us always.

You were loved by so many, and you will be missed more than words can say.

A private Celebration of Life will be held in the summer of 2027. Cremation has taken place.