Rejeanne Desmarais

Rejeanne Desmarais, at the young age of 87 (also known as Reggie to all), left to continue her journey with her late husband Denis. Daughter of the late Leo Sauriol and Emilienne Champagne and sister of the late Rolande Seguin.

She leaves in sorrow her children, Michael Desmarais (Carol Anne Lee-Desmarais), Julie Desmarais (Martin Steele, daughter Crystal-Rose Vassall-Steele), Roger Desmarais (Bibeana Tilley), Leonard Desmarais (Gene Atkinson), Lynn McDaniel, mother of grandsons Matthew and Nicholas Desmarais.

She also leaves her brother Ron Sauriol, in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins. Reggie grew up in Ottawa and then spent some time in South Porcupine. It was a good thing she moved back to Ottawa because she was able to meet the love of her life Denis. They spent over 65 wonderful years together. Within those years, they had a successful business (Hobby House) and had a house full of kids.

Reggie was a devoted mother, not only to her 4 children but also the kids in the neighborhood. It was the house to grow up in or visit. She was a mother to all.

Reggie loved family. She looked forward to outings and family dinners with her children and her brother Ron. When she became a grandma, her inner child was released, having tea parties, berry picking and searching for frogs.

There were no strangers to Reggie, only friends. She would send cards and letters to all. We think she kept Hallmark in business. It did not matter to Reggie your age. Whether you were 2 or 102 playing or just holding your hand, you were never lonely with Reggie around. Reggie was an avid church member. Singing in the choir and helping with the hospitality after service for many years. She devoted her life to caring for others.

Reggie enjoyed the different holidays and seasons. She loved the flowers in summer, the leaves in the fall and the glimmer of snowfall in the winter. Reggie enjoyed birds singing, sunrise and rainbows, she especially loved pink roses.

Mom was blessed in that she was able to travel the world with our dad. Making lifetime friends on every journey. Every new place was an adventure to her. She had the most infectious smile anyone could have. It was a smile that made you smile back. It was always a feel-good moment.

Mom had a pure innocence. She was the most loving and generous daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Our hearts ache and we will miss her dearly.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer’s Society would be appreciated.

You are invited to Rejeanne Desmarais’s celebration of life at Racine, Robert & Gauthier Funeral Home (180 Montreal Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1L 1B4) on May 11, 2024 from 10am until 2:30pm.