OBITUARY
Muriel Forgeron
It is with sadness from loss and gratitude for a life well lived that the family of Muriel (O ’Hearn) Forgeron announce that on December 29, 2020, in her 89th year, she has embarked on a passing from this life to the next. Mom was born in Arichat in February of 1932, raised to be independent, and with her faith, considered service to family and community to be guiding principles. From the age of 16 she taught school, at first in a one room schoolhouse with all subjects to all ages. Her desire to learn and see the world led her to university (St Marys’), teacher’s college (Normal School) and then to teaching in Goose Bay, where she first met Ted, the love of her life. After teaching in Labrador, Muriel accepted a term position in Germany. During this time, she traveled throughout Europe seeing Holland, Italy, Switzerland, Egypt, Syria Rome and Jerusalem; visiting remarkable places and making friends that she kept throughout her entire life. After Europe she returned home Canada, married Ted, and began her new life in a new community. Muriel and Ted shared Cape Breton roots and both treasured the beauty of family life in a fishing community, so Main-A-Dieu was a natural place to make their home. They would be married for 47 years. However, moving here had some logistical issues that had to be overcome. Such as deciding she needed to learn to swim at age 40 and drive at 45. Children, of course, needed driving to practice and taking to the beach. Fortunately, Muriel loved both music and sports, passions she kept all throughout her life and shared with her sons. There were 2 cancer treatments 40 years apart, and in her retirement the yearning to travel called once again. This time she chose to travel with friends to Scotland, Ireland, and the Caribbean, listening to music all along the way Muriel was more at home in Main-A-Dieu than any other place on earth. She taught elementary school for 42 years and first communion classes for even longer. Generations of families went through her classroom, and ticket sales for community events were a constant source of activity in the Forgeron house. Bake Sales were run with friends from the Catholic Women’s League, and seemingly endless change was counted at her kitchen table. Most of all Muriel enjoyed the company and laughter that these events brought. Muriel is survived by her sons Ian (Michelle Morrison) and Michael (Kimberly Campbell). Her granddaughter Hannah was a source of great pride and joy, having an independent spirit Muriel saw as her own. She frequently noted an amazement at how fast time goes from bassinette to university, and how happy she was to see her granddaughter grow up. Having her journey to the next life preceded by her husband Ted, parents Peter and Marguerite (Forrest) O’Hearn, and three siblings (Ursula, DP, and Bernie), Muriel kept her sisters Audie, Mel and brother Roy close. They shared stories of growing up in Pondville, relished their time when they got to visit together, and kept the bond by phone when this could not be arranged in person. Her nieces Nicole and Michelle, and their brother Peter were ever present in her house, and the tradition continued with their children. They will miss their Aunt Muriel as much as she enjoyed seeing them. In her last year, her summer return home to Main-a-Dieu was interrupted as travel was difficult. Undaunted, she chose to meet new people, make new friends, take road trips exploring a new island (PEI), continue to watch Jeopardy, and enjoy what God’s graces had bestowed. Her faith as ever, sustained her. We would like to thank everyone who made Mom’s life so special. She loved the community in Main-A-Dieu, having family come visit, lunch at the cafe, bingo with the Seniors, Church every day, and the exceptional friends who drove her everywhere and were always there for her. Her life was full because of the people in it. A funeral will be on Thursday, Jan 7th at Immaculate Conception Church in Main-A-Dieu, 1PM with interment following in the parish cemetery. We know it is not possible for everyone to be at the church right now, and we appreciate the thoughts and prayers that are coming to us daily. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.twcurry.com. In lieu of flowers any and all support to local charities will be welcomed.
FAMILY
- Ian (Michelle Morrison), Son
- Michael (Kimberly Campbell), Son
- Hannah, Granddaughter
- Audie, Sister
- Mel, Sister
- Roy, Brother
- Nicole, Niece
- Michelle, Niece
- Peter, Nephew
- Ted, Husband (deceased)
- Peter & Marguerite (Forrest) O’Hearn, Parents (deceased)
- Ursula, Sibling (deceased)
- DP, Sibling (deceased)
- Bernie, Sibling (deceased)
Services
PREVIOUS SERVICES:
-
Funeral Mass
Thursday, January 7, 2021
OTHER SERVICES:
Burial to follow Service
Memories
Muriel Forgeron
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYNoelle Mouchbahani
January 8, 2021
Michael, Kim and Hannah,
my deepest sympathy for the passing of your beloved mother (mother-in-law and grandmother). What a dynamic woman, so ahead of her time! I do remember you speaking so highly of her, Kim, and I know you will all miss her so much. May all the wonderful memories of her love, kindness and generosity bring you comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Mo Campbell
January 7, 2021
I was saddened to read of your dearest mother & grandmother’s passing. Mrs. Forgeron, as known then, taught me in grade five and was one of my favourite school teachers. Muriel was a wonderful woman with a sparkle in her spirit. It was so lovely to learn more of her life through your words. My condolences to all of her family and friends.
Maureen Mac Leod
January 7, 2021
My condolences to Michael, Kimberly, Ian, Michelle and Hannah on the passing of this energetic, loving lady who loved you beyond measure. You were her pride and joy ! Having taught with Muriel in Main-A-Dieu for a number of years I remember her fondly as a lady who was dedicated to her students and her community. She was like the every ready bunny with boundless energy and fantastic leader when it came to fundraising , doing everything from ticket sales to being a driving force helping organize events like the annual tea and sale. She loved people and her contagious laugh would fill any room. RIP Muriel . Enjoy your heavenly reward. ❤️ Love, hugs and prayers to all her family. 🌺
Michelle (Shelley) Forgeron
January 6, 2021
Part 2: A few random memories when I think of you:
I picture you at church in the first row (while Uncle Ted, at the very back), proudly reciting the prayers throughout mass. I remember joining you as a child and how happy this would make you. You appreciated the little things. Afterall, the little things are the big things.
I remember wanting to go over to your house in the early summer mornings, but we would have to wait for the outside light to go off and your inside door open, as this would let us know you were awake and we were welcome to come over for a visit.
I remember delivering the newspaper (or leftovers or dishes or other random items) to your house or the trailer or Noonie's.
I will always cherish memories of our Christmas day visits to Main-a-Dieu. This was always a highlight for me and seeing your latest Charlie Brown Christmas tree. Uncle Ted and Dad sure knew how to pick them!
I can still taste your date squares and apple pie.
I haven't quite processed your loss and it sure is strange being away and not being there to wish you farewell. I know your service will be beautiful, as you deserve. I wish I was there and I know you know I am there in spirit. I will cherish my many memories of you and you will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Main-a-Dieu will never be the same.
I love you forever.
Michelle (Shelley)
Michelle (Shelley) Forgeron
January 6, 2021
Mike, Ian, Kim, Hannah and Michelle: I am with you.
Aunt Muriel - a woman of strong morals and values, you led your life with integrity, grace and devotion. You were a pillar in our family and in your quaint community of Main-a-Dieu. A teacher by training, you taught us all so much in the great life you lived. Your devotion to the church and your faith were staples in your daily life and also carried you through times of loss and heartache. I remember at Uncle Ted's wake when you read the rosary at the back of the church. It was so incredibly powerful that it sent chills through me. Your love, strength, and faith came together to honor Uncle Ted in this moment. I have never felt anything like that before.
I can still hear your big, boisterous laugh that you were known for and picture you slapping your knee. I can see your big smile and your bright, sparkly eyes that let me know you were happy to see me, and hear your big, welcoming, "Hello!!" as I walked in to visit you. I loved our visits so much and enjoyed our talks - I could talk to you about anything and everything. You always were so present, you listened to every word and showed such a vested interest in my life, and Riley's. Thank you for that. Over the years, my visits with you (and Uncle Ted) became more and more special to me. I loved hearing of stories of your family when you and Mom were younger as it painted a picture of your lives. Thank you for sharing with me.
To me, our family is uniquely close since you and Mom are sisters and Uncle Ted and Dad were brothers. I will always remember you as a second Mom to me. I loved our family gatherings over the years when Ian would bust out the guitar and sing songs upon request. You beamed with pride watching him play! Watching you, while you were watching Ian, was one of my sweetest memories and I remember that so vividly. I can still see your facial expression and amazement as you watched and listened. You sure loved your boys and time together.
..
Francine Price
January 6, 2021
Dear Michael, Ian, Kim, Michelle and Hannah
I will always remember Aunt Muriel her beautiful smile and that laugh. So gentle and kind, always there for her family and community, Anytime we went to the centre Muriel was either there or on her way. I so looked forward to seeing her as it wasn't the same visiting Main -A-Dieu without a chat with her, it will never be the same again. Darryl said there will surely be spot in heaven waiting for her.
Much love to you all ;
God Bless Francine, Darryl and family
Joanne Kelly
January 6, 2021
Ian
Jim and I hope that you share in the faith that your mother enjoyed. Such a beautiful spirit and strong community worker.
In deepest sympathy, Jim and Joanne Kelly
Jaycee & David Sabapathy
January 6, 2021
Dear Ian and Michelle,
David and I want you to know that we stand with you during this great loss and wish you peace. Even in the brief encounters we had with Muriel, we knew she was a remarkable woman. Reading through the obituary confirmed this even more! Her great faith shines through! Look forward to connecting with you and sharing stories when you get back.
With love,
Jaycee & David
Viola and Ivan Doncaster
January 6, 2021
Dear Ian, Michelle, Michael, Kimberly and Hannah,
We are holding you all in our hearts, our thoughts and prayers as you journey through this difficult time. Muriel was a beautiful lady, who was always a joy to meet anywhere. Her loving enthusiasm will leave a void in the lives of so many people. May the love hugs and prayers of all offer you a source of comfort as you and all her family members move forward. Muriel is surely being welcomed to her heavenly home with lots of love and laughter to share. God bless you all! Love, hugs and prayers, Viola & Ivan.
Brenda Goyetche
January 6, 2021
Michael, Kim, Hannah and the entire Forgeron family,
Words may not suffice to express the heartfelt sorrow that I feel for the passing of Muriel.
May the care and love of those around you provide comfort and peace to get you through the days ahead.
Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Brenda Goyetche
Judith & Angus Gardner
January 6, 2021
Dear Ian, Michelle, Michael , Kimberly , Hannah and All the Family ,
We were so sorry to hear about the loss of Your Mother Muriel . She was a lovely lady and will be missed by those fortunate enough to have known Her spirit and kindness . God Bless and Prayers to You All during this difficult time .
Hugs, Angus and Judy
Theresa and Jim Hiltz
January 6, 2021
We wish to extend sincere sympathy to the family of Muriel Forgeron.She was a wonderful lady dedicated to her profession church and family.She will be missed by all. Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this diff icult time. God Bless. Jim and Theresa
Debbie Mahon
January 6, 2021
To the Families: The gift of life, however dear, must sometime pass away....yet love and memories remain, eternal gifts that stay.
I knew Muriel through the CWL in Louisbourg.
Debbie & Mike🕊
KEVEN SPENCER
January 6, 2021
Micheal and Ian and familes,so sorry for your loss.Wonderful mother and a great teacher.Taught myself and my kids.SUCH A BEAUTIFUL LADY.
Charlene Keigan
January 4, 2021
Mrs. Forgeron taught me for Grades 1 and 2. She was an excellent teacher and took pride in everything she did. She was always doing something for the school, church or community. ( selling tickets was her favorite thing to do) I have very fond memories of her as my teacher and a community member. She will be missed by all who knew her. We will all miss her infectious laugh.
Condolences to Michael, Ian, their families and extended families.
Charlene ( Wadden) & Darrell Keigan
Sharon Tiernye
January 4, 2021
I never had the pleasure of meetin Muriel sadly. However, reading her obituary reveals that she was an amazing lady! Wow she was an inspiration:)
She left behind the embodiment of her lifes work in Mike who has been a true friend to us for many years. The Apple did not fall very far from the tree.
Our thoughts and wishes go out to Mike, Hanna, Kim and the rest of the family who will surely miss Muriel!
A life well lived! Sharon and Ryan Tierney
Emily Reeder
January 4, 2021
Dear Michael, Kim and Hannah,
My thoughts and prayers are with you as you grieve the loss of an unbelievable woman and pillar of the community. What an incredible life she lived!
Emily Reeder and family
Debora Smith-Kennedy
January 4, 2021
Michael, Ian & Family,
So sorry to hear about the passing of your Mom. She was a great lady who will be missed by everyone who knew her. Please accept our deepest sympathy.
Ronnie & Debbie Kennedy
Rick MacDonald
January 3, 2021
I taught with Muriel in Main- a-Dieu from 1972 until her retirement.
She was extremely dedicated to school, community and church. Muriel was an excellent teacher and worked hard to bring out the best in every child she taught.She had a great sense of humour and a laugh that was uniquely hers.
Boy, was she good with money! When she volunteered to look after the School Milk Program, I gladly accepted knowing full well that every penny would be accounted for.
Muriel was fair and honest in her opinions and very supportive of me as principal.
I feel very fortunate that I worked with such a fine lady.
Michael, Ian and families...my thoughts and prayers are with you. May your mom Rest In Peace.
Sue Kokorudz
January 3, 2021
Dear Michael, Kim, Hannah and Forgeron family,
Our hearts are broken upon hearing of Muriel's passing. We loved her visits to Mississauga every year and enjoyed seeing her at church, breakfasts or tea and Christmas sweets at the house. We will truly miss such a beautiful, kind lady. Keeping you in our prayers. Much love, Sue and Madeleine
Shawn MacDonald
January 3, 2021
What a phenomenal lady! She was one of my all time favourite childhood influences. Every memory I have of her is one of her working, serving or helping others. She taught me and hundreds of others to read and to write and to “behave”. It’s impossible to forget or to stop appreciating her for that! Only recently I unpacked some books she gave me in Grade 2 and read her personalized messages to me. They are great memories of someone who cared and went above and beyond to uplift others and to be kind. I’m sure those books were out of her own pocket. She continues to be an inspiration to me and to so many others. My sincere condolences to the family! What a great legacy your Mom/Grandma left for generations to come!
Rosalie McDougall
January 3, 2021
Just wanted to share my deepest sympathy at Muriel's passing. The last time I saw her was the summer of 2019 at - BINGO! I was always happy to see her, these last few years at the cafe in Main-a-Dieu. She was always friendly, kind and lovely to me and to my family. Hoping Michael and Ian and families are sustained during this sad time by knowing what a kind soul she was, and her loving spirit will always be with you all. Rosalie McDougall & family
Patrick Kennedy
January 3, 2021
An absolute pillar in the community while growing up and positive influence for so many. Muriel definitely left an imprint on the generation of kids I attended Main-A-Dieu school with.
Outside of community and school, I was lucky enough to know Muriel as Ian's hockey mom. As a frequent car-pool ride along to the practices and games across Cape Breton as hockey teammates, she looked after me like her own. She brought her enthusiasm and warmth to many a cold hockey rink, I am sure anyone in attendance will remember her distinctive cheers and laughter from the stands.
As my sister mentioned earlier, I felt like she would live forever. I feel blessed to have known her, and give thanks for all those she has helped along the way.
May she rest in peace.
Sincerest condolences to Ian, Michael and families.
Patrick Kennedy and Family (Ottawa, Ontario)
gary & heather perry
January 3, 2021
Dear Michael, Ian and family,
Please accept our deepest sympathy on your loss. Someone so special will not be forgotten. The memories you share will live forever in your hearts. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely
Gary & Heather Perry
carol MacVicar
January 3, 2021
I just know Muriel from being a member of the Seniors Social group in Louisbourg, from time to time would play cards with her. That is how I first met her. She was a very wonderful and happy person to be around, always made you feel welcome and she will be remembered for her kindness and laughter, she will be greatly missed by her family and community members. May she rest in peace and my deepest sympathy to everyone.
Michelle Richards
January 3, 2021
Mrs Forgeron was my first grade teacher. She was a wonderful teacher; kind and nurturing but also strict when the situation required it. She’s been such a fixture in the community my entire life. Such a pleasant, disciplined and strong person. I thought she’d live forever and certainly will in the memories of us all who knew her. Rest In Peace Muriel and sincerest condolences to Ian, Michael and their families.
Michelle (Kennedy) and Peter Richards
Maria Kelly
January 3, 2021
Such a beautiful tribute. Sincere condolences to Muriel’s family and broader community.
Rhonda (Lahey) Meserve
January 3, 2021
A beautiful tribute to a wonderful lady. My thoughts and prayers to her family.
Nanci Forgeron-Green
January 2, 2021
Aunt Muriel. A beautiful soul who brought so much joy to all who made her acquaintance. I will miss her laugh. Sending much love to Michael, Ian, Kim, Michelle and Hannah.
Andrea Steylen Libadia
January 2, 2021
Sincerest condolences to your entire family. Muriel touched so many lives over her years, she will be missed. May she Rest In Peace.
Alfredine Baldwin
January 2, 2021
Sincere condolences to the family. Only knew her for a short period of time, mostly connected to the church activity, but always admired her devotion to everything she did.
Marguerite and Greg Kennedy
January 2, 2021
My condolences to the family, and the communities loss. I was also a member of the CWL where I have many memories of her. She taught all my children communion. She taught my oldest in Main a Dieu school. Very giving woman who did so much.
Robert & Raylene Young
January 2, 2021
Dear Ian, Michael & family, Please accept our most sincere condolences. We knew your Mom & Dad over the years.
It was always a delight to speak with your Mom from time to time. We certainly will miss her.
Our thoughts & prayers are with you as you journey through this very sad time.
Tammy Burke MacMullin
January 2, 2021
My heartfelt sympathies are extended to Mrs. Forgeron’s family and friends.
Mrs Forgeron taught me in grades 1 and 2.
1985-87. She was, and still is one of my absolute favorite teachers! Her and I shared many laughs and she shared amazing stories with me. (I’d like to think I was one of her favorite students as she gifted me little items at the end of the school year-which was a secret :)
She also ensured that I was able to go to Wheelies for selling CWL tickets, and laughed so much when after roller skating, we were on our way to Burger King and I screamed “Home of the Whopper!”
I loved when she would ask me to go check the mail during class. I would also drop off her neighbors mail, and always received a black licorish for my effort ha ha.
I found Mrs. Forgeron to be very influential to me. She was a kind hearted, sweet woman. She beemed with pride when our class made our First Communion. I truly believe she loved all her students as her own. She relished in all our accomplishments and strived to ensure that every single one of us thrived.
Mrs Forgeron, you will be missed by many, and have touched the lives of all of the students you have taught throughout the years. Rest In Peace
Kathleen Lahey
January 2, 2021
Our sincere condolences to Michael, Ian and family .May she Rest In Peace.Willis and Kathleen Lahey
Cathy Steylen
January 2, 2021
Deepest condolences to all of Muriel’s family and many friends! What a great gift she was to the community of Main-a-Dieu!! Her guidance, teaching and patience contributed to forming good practice and principles to generations in the community! May she Rest In Peace.
Harold And Judy Wadden
January 2, 2021
Dear Mike, Ian ,and families ,so sorry to hear of Muriel passing she was a beautiful lady .You were always sure of a good laugh when you were in her company. She will be missed by everyone in the community .God Bless. Harold and Judy Wadden.
Annette & Ron Phillips
January 2, 2021
Our deepest condolences to Ian and Michael and all of Muriel family. Muriel was a special lady and I will always remember after the CWL Tea& Sale we would go to her place and count the money at the kitchen table. She always had her church and the community of Main-A-Dieu at heart. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Rest in peace Muriel
Kenzie Burke
January 2, 2021
Will always remember Murial for her kindness and friendly conversation . When i went home for mom and dads funerals it was a pleasure to have a talk with her in the office . It was a joy when she would remember things of when i was a young fellow that i would just as soon forget . She would always take time to talk .
Linda/Arnold Wilcox
January 2, 2021
Dear Mike, Ian and families,
So sorry to hear about Murial’s passing,she was a true lady and a pillar of the community for sure. We never drive by your family home without thinking about your mom and the amazing laugh and smile she had while selling tickets. She will definitely be missed in our community. Thoughts and prayers are sent to everyone.
Darlene Sponagle
January 2, 2021
My sincere condolences Michael, Ian and families. Your mom was truly a lady dedicated to her students and community. She will be greatly missed.
Melinda O'Neil
January 2, 2021
My heart is broken. I don't believe driving through Main A Dieu will ever be the same. She thought me to write in cursive; today that is a privilege. Thank you Muriel for teaching me how to write, read and know the value of family. I will never forget, there you were, barely able to walk on your own and you attended my husband's funeral. You hugged me and said " I'm so sorry for your loss . God bless you." And then you stayed for the entire funeral. I will never forget that!!! God bless you all. She was one of a kind xo
Debi Kennedy
January 2, 2021
Michael, Ian & families, may God bless you all during this sad time. Your Mom had a list of attributes so long that even beginning to mention them would not even touch the surface of who she was. She helped out in every aspect of parish and community life and seemed so happy doing so. Her smile and laugh could brighten any room and this is how I remember her. You both have much to be proud of. She is at peace now, with her loved ones.
Hugs to you all,
Debi (Wilcox) Kennedy
Patricia Hall
January 2, 2021
Condolences to all of the family Muriel was a pleasure to meet when I worked at the Big Wave Cafe always with a smile on her face and her infectious laugh when she was having conversations with the other ladies of the community before bingo. She was a lovely woman and will be missed tremendously in our little Main A Dieu community
Theresa Forgeron
January 2, 2021
Dear Michael, Kim, Ian, Michelle, Hannah, Audie and family:
I extend my heartfelt condolences on the loss of a true lady - a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a sister, and a remarkable woman of great faith. We were blessed to have known her and to have shared her smile, laugh, joy and kindness. My fondest memories include the Sunday visits from Aunt Muriel who always had another raffle ticket to sell to Boe while we were visiting my parents. He looked forward to those visits and the occasional winnings that came his way. I expect she is in heaven now with a Rosary in one hand and a set of raffle tickets in the other! On a more serious note, Aunt Muriel's deep faith provided a meaningful example of how to approach life's many challenges. Her prayers, quiet reflection,and especially her blessing meant so much to me. We are with you in this time of grief and celebration. We love you. Hugs. Theresa, Brittany, Jeff and Bridget.
Wanda Earhart
January 2, 2021
On behalf of all of us at Every Woman's Centre please accept our most sincere condolences on the passing of Muriel. Through the years her visits to the Centre were pure joy and the conversation something special to look forward to, always ending with a hug, until next time. A life well lived for sure.
Alice Mailman
January 2, 2021
So sorry to hear of your moms passing she is in your dad's arms now. They are together again. She was a loving lady, she loved to help everyone. RIP Muriel.
Kevin & Lucy Thomas
January 1, 2021
Sincere condolences to Ian, Michael and all of Muriel’s family and many friends.
We are saddened to read of Muriel’s passing. We have many great memories of the many bus tours that Muriel took with us with her travel partner, Frances Wilcox.
To Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, PEI, Isle de Madeleine and of course day trips around her beloved Cape Breton, there was never a doubt that Muriel was with us as we could always hear her laughing and carrying on with our other passengers.
She will be missed but we have many great memories.