Regis Joseph DUFOUR

Regis Joseph Dufour passed away peacefully on February 20, 2013 at WCGH with family by his side.  Predeceased by wife, Delores (2001) and many brothers and sisters; he is survived by his daughter Denise, son Randy (Valerie), grandchildren Chloe and Jack, sisters Mae and Molly, many nieces and nephews, his many friends and workers (the boys) and dearest friend Cathy - whose love, strength and compassion has helped us all.

Born in 1934 in rural Debden, Saskatchewan, the Dufour family lmoved westward, settling in Port Alberni, where Reg has always lived until his passing.  The family struggled through many tough times but somehow made it work.  Reg worked in the forest industry in various capacities.  He decided to embark on a new career and in the early 70's started a business, Valley Furna Vac.  It started out as a thriving chimney cleaning business, then evolved into roofing and finally - with his entrepreneurial spirit, migrated into asbestos abatement - an industry that he helped pioneer.  Reg loved work and never wanted to retire; he was on a job site just weeks ago.  He was the hardest working person that we ever met, and fought hard right to the end.  Those that knew Reg, will remember his very quirky sense of humour (loved hearing and telling jokes) and his tremendous generosity, which we are all grateful for.  He was very dedicated to his childrenand would do anything for them.  He met Cathy seven years ago and their friendship blossomed and Cathy became his rock, his compass, and his best friend.  Reg enjoyed watching sports and old western movies.  He will be dearly missed by all of us.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no formal funeral ceremony.  A "WAKE" to celebrate his life will be held Sunday, February 24th at the Barclay Hotel on Stamp Avenue from 2:00 - 4:00 PM.  In lieu of flowers, we request that donations be made in Reg's name to the West Coast General Hospital Foundation - www.wcghfoundation.com