Obituary of Leonard "Leo" Joseph Paquette

PAQUETTE, Leonard (Leo) - Leo died peacefully surrounded by family, after a long battle with dementia at Sumac Lodge on Friday, May 19, 2017 at the age of 85. Beloved husband of the late Ellen (Murphy) and the late Mary (Kohut). Dear father of Darlene (Bob) Johnson, Sarnia and Leonard (Pam) Paquette Jr., Corunna. Loving grandfather of Jenn Johnson (Jim Bruner) and their children Tyler, Jordynn, Kyle, Amber, Ashley and their grandson Hunter; Kevin Johnson and his daughter Olivia; Stacey Johnson (Chris Carpeneto); Kaitlin (Joel) Drapeau; Taylor Paquette; Steven (Trish) Paquette and Leonard Paquette. Brother of Norma Beaudoin (Doug), Sarnia. Predeceased by parents Alex & Mathilda Paquette, brother Palma (late Bea) and sister Annette (Homer) Chapleau. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Leo loved his family, dogs, dancing and being with people. After a myriad of jobs in his youth; farmer, lumberjack, assembly line worker, construction worker to name a few, he found his favourite and last job...bartender. He ended his long years of bartending at the Canterbury Inn from its opening day until his retirement twenty five years later. Leo loved being a part of so many weddings, Christmas parties, special occasions and all the fun weekends spent working in the Coach Stop bar. It was not unusual to find him dancing to the music as he worked behind the bar. He loved the outdoors and camped for many years at Cedar Bay Campground. His children, grandchildren and great grandchildren spent many summer days there and made so many happy memories with their papa. Leo loved going to Wawanosh Conservation area and was often seen there on a long walks. Leo loved dogs and they loved him. Often, with tails wagging, they would hop in his car to have a weekend of being spoiled with Papa. Due to dementia Leo's final home, for six years, was Sumac Lodge where the staff were not only his caregivers but also part of his family. A special thanks to all of the Sumac Lodge staff for being there for him when we couldn't. A very special thank you for those who helped make our dad's last days, especially his final hours, comfortable and peaceful. Sharing your stories about dad, your kindness and compassion toward us during such a difficult time will be forever remembered. Although the dementia took away most of his memories it could not take away the dance in his heart, the sparkle in his eyes or the smile on his face. Friends will be received at the McKENZIE & BLUNDY FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTRE, 431 N. Christina St., Sarnia on Tuesday, May 23, 2017 from 7-9 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Benedict's Church on Wednesday, May 24th at 11:00 a.m. Interment Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy, friends who wish may send memorial donations to Sarnia & District Humane Society, 131 Exmouth St., Sarnia N7T 7W8. Messages of condolence and memories may be left at www.mckenzieblundy.com