Joseph Gabriel Paul Arthur Gabriel Ritchot

November 13, 1923 ~ February 6, 2012

Gabriel passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospital on February 6, 2012 . He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Irene, his children Louis (Debbie), Fern ( Cindy), Claudette(Denis), and Yvonne ( Don) , 13 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by 5 brothers and 5 sisters, but is survived by his younger sister, Therese Desrosiers of Kelowna BC.

Gabriel was born and raised in Aubigny. In 1948, he married the love of his life, Irene Vermette. They bought a farm in Aubigny where they raised 4 children. Gabriel was an honest, hard-working and generous man who always gave selflessly. Family meant everything to him and he did all that he could to provide for them. That included juggling three jobs: farmer, mechanic and school bus driver.

The couple remained in Aubigny until 1981. After many years of farming challenges and living through 3 Red River floods, they decided it was time to move to St. Norbert. Gabriel continued to work as a mechanic at Courcelles Bros. in Ste. Agathe until 1990. After retirement, he took up curling and enjoyed the sport for several years, playing 2 or 3 times a week. When his health no longer allowed him to play, he continued to enjoy the sport on TV.

For the past 10 years, the Chalet in St. Norbert has been home. Gabriel made some very good friends there. His love of people drew him downstairs for coffee almost every day. There were many games of pool and shuffleboard. There were also countless hours of card games and “pichnotte” (croquinole) when family and friends dropped by for a visit.

Gabriel was truly a good man who was known and loved by many and he will be greatly missed. A memorial for the immediate family only will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.