Mr. Joseph Charlebois

      In the song of life, Mr. Joseph Charlebois was surely the composer. A very observant man who would rather spend his time creating than talking, Lawrence preferred to live in a world of harmony where everything around him made sense. In fact, he depended on his sensory world to provide him with concrete data. A free spirit, Lawrence believed that actions definitely spoke for themselves. He seemed to know what fit and what didn't fit in everything he did. Lawrence perceived that all of life's possibilities were open to him, yet he lived with a definite sense of purpose. He was a man who was always ready to share his creations with those around him.

      Lawrence was born on December 29, 1933, Lawrence was born in a little house on 3rd street in Estevan, SK. He had three siblings; two sisters, Simonne and Rose, and one brother, Paul. Lawrence was raised in Estevan, SK. As a young child, Lawrence was optimistic in his outlook. He sought out the possibilities in a given situation and looked for ways to apply his creative energies. Lawrence rarely calling attention to himself, but when he did speak out, his message was clearly understood by those around him.

      Early on in his family relationships, Lawrence showed that he was a tolerant and flexible person, and he got along fairly well with everyone. He was a calm and playful child who was adaptable to any situation.

      Those who didn't know Lawrence well might not view him as being an outgoing person, those who called him their friend knew differently. Lawrence was shy and sensitive, a person who never forced his opinions and values on others. Close friends knew that his kindness was unmatched, and once you became a friend of Lawrence's, you understood how true a friend he could be. While growing up, some of his best friends were Allen Senchuk, Hazel Elliott, Gladys Dahl and Charlie Oszust. Later in life, he became friends with Gail and Ritchie Mack, Bert Mack, Laura Tafelmeyer and Gary Katrusik.

      A person who was sensitive to others' feelings, modest and tolerant, Lawrence had the ability to become completely devoted to another when that affection was returned. Lawrence exchanged wedding vows with his life partner. Lawrence's spouse's name was (Yvonne) Rose Alma Gosselin at the St. Monica's R. C. Church of Bienfait, SK. on October 15, 1966

      Lawrence was exceptionally sympathetic and compassionate when it came to his children. These emotional bonds made him as much playmate as parent. He gave his family unconditional love and kindness, sharing his artistic nature by turning everyday events into creative play. Lawrence was blessed with Lawrence had one daughter, Michelle. They were also blessed with One granddaughter, Brittney.

      Lawrence found ways to enjoy what he did for a living. He worked hard and did his best to succeed every day. His primary occupation was Tipple foreman and Lab tech. He was employed for Prairie Coal Limited. Lawrence tended to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done without imposing his will on others.

      Lawrence enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. Lawrence loved to tinker in the yard, garage or shed. He could be found in the garden planting and weeding and other times cutting wood, repairing buildings or pulling things apart. Lawrence was content to enjoy his hobbies alone but was also willing to share his interests with others. He was relaxed in his approach to his leisure time because he wanted to savor the present moment.

      Lawrence loved to bowl as a young man, on a team or as a single player, winning many trophies and had lots of fun while playing. Lawrence was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite events whenever he got the opportunity. During his life he enjoyed watching a game on the T. V. Whether it was hockey, football, or the occasional baseball game.

      Lawrence's faith was important to him. He was a member of the St. Monica's R. C. Church after he got married in 1966. Growing up, religion was a big part of his upbringing. At a young age he became an alter server for weddings, funerals, and many masses. With living so close to the church, he was asked to look after the wood/coal stoves that heated the church, this meant get up early so the church would be warm for masses in the morning and still be on time for school. Lawrence's passionate commitment to upholding his values placed him at home in his religion, where he took comfort in the company of others who believed as he did.

      Though he never set out to gain individual recognition, Lawrence was given accolades for his many and varied accomplishments throughout his life. He often undervalued his achievements and abilities and simply viewed his performance as fulfilling his responsibilities. Lawrence received many awards in his many years of work. The most memorable was the year he retired. He received a plaque for commitment and dedicated service for 40 years at Prairie Coal and a plaque from CP Rail for friendships made and many years working with them.

      Because he loved the world around him, Lawrence enjoyed traveling and going away on vacations. It was an opportunity for him to kick back and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Lawrence put his personal trademark on any leisure planning that he undertook. He traveled to B. C. Alberta, and around Saskatchewan. He also traveled through the United States but his favorite places he loved to visit was Santa Barbara, California, which he went once or twice a year to visit a buddy and the other place was Las Vegas. After retirement lawrence and his lady friend Lorraine traveled to Texas as a little winter getaway, for a couple of weeks and they loved it. In the Summer the both of them would go to Mouse River Park, North Dakota, every weekend, where they would relax and enjoy visiting with many friends and made many new friends over the years.

      Lawrence was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of Lawrence's favorites was one pet in particular who became his closest companion for many years. The little miniature dash hound named Bandit could be seen with him just about everyday of the week, whether they were out for a walk or just going for a ride in the car. Rain or shine. They were best friends for 16 years. Lawrence had many pets over the years like dogs, cats, and horses.

      When Lawrence finally retired at the end of December in 1993, he continued to live in Roch Percee where he had an acreage that he loved and called home for over 10 years, he was well prepared. He loved to go for coffee with the guys in the morning, just to hear what was happening at the mine and to catch up with old friends. The best thing he enjoyed about retirement was he could catch up and do things that he didn't have time to do when he was working, especially being able to spend more time with his granddaughter Brittney which was his number one priority when she was born and growing up. His pride and joy. Even in retirement, Lawrence continued to stay in touch with his old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances. In these later chapters of his life, he became active in the community, feeling fulfilled with the opportunities retirement offered him and simply enjoying what he had worked so hard to attain.

      Lawrence passed away on December 10, 2008 at Estevan, SK. in St. Joseph's Hospital at the age of 74 years. After a short battle with cancer. He is survived by his daughter, Michelle (Cory); granddaughter, Brittney; sister, Simonne (Allan); brother Paul (Cec); also many numerous nieces and nephews. Prayer service was held at the chapel of Orsted Funeral Home and the Funeral Mass was held at St. John the Baptist R. C. Church, Estevan. Lawrence was laid to rest in Souris Valley Memorial Gardens, Estevan.

      Lawrence was a good man, a kind man, and a practical man who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being warm and deeply caring. He leaves behind him a treasury of life-long friendships and wonderful memories. Lawrence always had much to give and was able to make those connections in his life where his gifts were appreciated. Lawrence was a faithful, practical and loving person. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Mr. Joseph Charlebois.