Victor Ronald Joseph Degagne

Ron was born in St. Boniface (Winnipeg) Manitoba, where he lived for his first 58 years. He was predeceased by his parents Vic and Marie (Van Blue) De Gagne, and sister Bernice Simoens (D ennis). He is survived by his loving wife Nancy, son Grant (Lea Silver) and grandson Skylar Pulvermacher.

In his early life, Ron attended the Holy Cross Primary School and Nelson McIntyre High School. He continued his education as a young man by becoming a draftsman at Manitoba Technical Institute and later certificated as an arborist from University of Manitoba.

From 1960-1965, Ron served the Manitoba Provincial Government’s Highway and Waterworks where he supported the construction and maintenance of several landmark projects, including the famous ‘Duff’s Ditch’ (Red River Floodway). He furthered his career in Transport Canada, where he designed plans for the Winnipeg International Airport and many other key infrastructure projects. This also led him to meet his wife Nancy. His career was well recognized, earning him a promotion to Project Manager at Public Works. He worked on multi-million-dollar projects, including schools, retirement homes, recreation centres, and hospitals that improved the lives of many Manitobans. He formally retired in 1995.

Ron and Nancy spent many joyous days snowmobiling and fishing from their cabin at Lee River in Lac Du Bonnet and travelled to many sunny destinations. They were married in 1984. They purchased and built an organic food farm, tree farm and orchard in Green Oak, Manitoba. For many years Ron used his education as an arborist, greenhouse operator and environmentalist to build a safe and fun place for his family to enjoy. Together, they welcomed their son, Grant Victor Andrew, in 1988.

As a family, they moved to Parksville, BC in 1998. Vancouver Island was an unknown place to them, but Ron was never one to shy away from adventure and quickly became involved in the community through his outgoing character and connections as an avid curler, sailor and handyman.

Ron was not afraid to tackle any project. He continually entertained himself by learning new skills and taught many of them to his son. He spent hours working on vehicles and farming equipment, gardening and renovating the homes he and his family lived in.

He was also an avid sportsman. He curled throughout most of his life, and served as the President of the Qualicum Beach Curling Club. He also enjoyed fishing, skiing and snowmobiling. When he moved to Vancouver Island, he became a great boating enthusiast and was a member of the Deep Bay Yacht Club.

He loved a good party and good company. He was always eager to share a story and a laugh. Ron was kind and fair to all and his sense of humour and wit will be dearly missed.

Thank you to the excellent care by staff at Stanford Senior Village and Dr Aasman for his compassion during this time.

Service to be held at Church of Ascension Aug 1st 2026 at 11:00 am.