Louise Marie (Richard) Ténière

After a sudden illness, it is with deepest sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Louise Ténière, on February 16, 2025, at the age of 81. She was surrounded by her loving family throughout her final days. Born March 4, 1943, (Notre Dame, New Brunswick), Louise is the daughter of the late Tilmon Richard and Alvina (Cormier) Richard.

Louise, a proud Acadian, grew up in a small village in Notre Dame, New Brunswick. She was the second youngest of 9 children, including one who died in infanthood. She grew up in a close-knit family and community of strong faith. Louise fondly recalled the many choir practices leading up to Christmas, with her father playing the organ and her family members singing together. These moments of preparation and celebration were filled with music, family, and community, creating beautiful memories that transcended any material gifts.

Despite growing up in a large family of modest means, Louise often shared stories of her father's unwavering dedication to her education. One memorable tale involved him negotiating with the school administrator in a neighbouring village to accept her, as there were no educational options in their own village. Louise's educational journey continued at the boarding school, Le Couvent de l'Immaculée-Conception in Bouctouche, and later at Oulton College in Moncton, where she pursued a Secretarial and Administrative Program. This education proved invaluable when she took on the role of managing the family business, Teniere Electric Motor Repair. Her father's efforts and her own determination laid the foundation for her success.

As a young working woman, Louise discovered her appreciation and love for fashion. Her style, sophistication, and grace became defining traits that followed her throughout her life. While visiting Saint Pierre et Miquelon with her best friend, Jeaninne Hébert, her beauty and elegance caught the eye of a handsome young Frenchman who was living in Halifax at the time. It was love at first sight, and the two courted for a year before marrying on July 23, 1966, and settled in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Louise was a dedicated mother and wife who always put the family first. She was very proud of her daughters and granddaughters. We often enjoyed gatherings with the “Ténière” family, celebrating holidays and dinners where she honed her skills in the art of French cuisine. The family also enjoyed camping and travelling across Canada in the beloved motor home. Eventually, Louise and Claude built the cottage “le chalet” shortly after purchasing land in Notre Dame in 1981, where they enjoyed many “Richard” family gatherings filled with music and celebration. Louise and Claude cherished their visits to Ottawa to see Michele and her family. These trips were filled with good times and the joy of meeting many people whom Louise came to consider close friends.

Louise was also a highly skilled crocheter, creating delicate and detailed pieces, including a beautiful christening dress for her granddaughters. Many people were fortunate to receive her exquisite Afghans, each one a testament to her talent and love for the craft.

Above all else, Louise was a truly kind and loving person. She never spoke a harsh word about anyone and always chose silence over negativity. Her gentle spirit and considerate nature touched everyone who knew her.

Louise is survived by her daughters, Michèle Ténière (Fred Close) and Monique Ténière (Jamie Johnson); her grandchildren, Anyssa Close and Selena Close; and her brothers, Tilmon and Leo-Paul (Blanche). She is also remembered by many nieces and nephews, as well as special friends Dianna Goguen, Carol and Carl Hayre, and Derek Mailman. She was predeceased by her siblings Louis (Rita), Irene (Gerald), Désiré (Annette), Yvon (survived by Therese), and Paul (survived by Huberte).

Visitation will be held at J.A. Snow Funeral Home 339 Lacewood Dr. Halifax on Sunday February 23rd from 2:00-5:00 p.m. with a short memorial prayer service at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Mental Health Association, Nova Scotia Division, at  https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/44267