Hervé Wilfred Joseph Lafontaine

Born on September 4, 1943, in Montmartre, Saskatchewan, Hervé was proud of his French Canadian heritage. He was raised with a strong work ethic, curiosity, and a willingness to take risks—even when the outcome was uncertain. That spirit would guide him throughout his life, shaping both his career and the way he moved through the world.

Hervé began his working life as a radio and television technician before finding his path in the oil and gas industry. Over the years, he built a respected career in geophysics, eventually becoming a business owner and president of his own company. He took pride in his work and in the independence that came with building something of his own.

He will be remembered for his quick wit, quiet generosity, and, in his later years, a gentler, reflective presence that drew people in. He had a way of observing the world with humour and insight, often sharing just the right comment at just the right time—sometimes with a familiar line: “Only two types of people—the quick and the hungry,” or “What are you writing, a book? Guess you’ll have to leave that chapter out.”

Hervé found joy in life’s simple pleasures and in places that became woven into family stories and friendships—from the prairies of Saskatchewan to the shores of Prince Edward Island, the warmth of Arizona, and beside the quiet waters of Mabel Lake and Windermere Lake in British Columbia—with Calgary, Alberta always home, and many roads and moments in between. His early working days took him to the Îles-de-la-Madeleine, the Northwest Territories, and Australia. Wherever he found himself—by ocean, desert, prairie, or lake—there was always room for rest, laughter, and connection with family and friends.

He was someone who liked to keep his hands busy and his mind engaged. There was almost always a project on the go—something being taken apart, repaired, or quietly brought back to life. He had a steady way of figuring things out without much fuss, taking simple satisfaction in fixing what was broken or building something that would last. It was just what he did—part curiosity, part care, and part habit of always making things a little better.

He enjoyed a good round of golf, brain teasers and puzzles, and the familiar comfort of classic westerns, along with a fondness for crime and mystery shows. These quiet pastimes reflected his thoughtful nature and appreciation for routine, story, and problem-solving. He was also known for his easy-going ways—often found in shorts year-round, whether it was a spring snowfall in Calgary or a “cool” day in Arizona when others reached for jackets.

Hervé is lovingly remembered by his wife, Beverley, with whom he shared 54 years of marriage; his daughters, Lisa (John) and Leslie; his cherished grandchildren, Emily (Marek), Nathan, and Edward; and his siblings, Leo (Debbie) and Gerry (Joyce), as well as his sister-in-law Verna, wife of his late brother Armand. He is also remembered by his many nieces and nephews—by whom he was fondly known as a favourite uncle—and by extended family and friends who will carry forward stories, laughter, and memories of time shared.

He was predeceased by his parents, Urgel Thomas and Ida Marie (née Pepin) Lafontaine; his infant brother Roger; his sister and brother-in-law Lea and Raymond Bannister; his brother Armand; his father- and mother-in-law, George and Norma (née Jenkins) Hayden; and granddaughter Kerry Penzo.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the teams at Rockyview Hospital over the past seven months, and Chinook Hospice for their compassionate care and support in Hervé’s final days.

In keeping with Hervé’s wishes, a small gathering to celebrate his life will be held at a later date. Details will be shared once arrangements are finalized.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may honour Hervé’s memory in a way that feels meaningful—through time spent with loved ones, a round of golf, or a quiet moment of reflection. Donations in Hervé’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice, or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.