07-Nov-1935 - 05-Feb-2023
Gabriel passed away peacefully at the Georgian Bay General Hospital on February 5th, 2023, with his family by his side at the age of 87. Loving Husband to Margaret (nee DesRochers) of 62 years. Father to Peter and wife Debbie, Patrick and wife Cindy, Maurice and wife Theresa and Pauline and husband Steven. Son of the late Aurore and Honore Quesnelle, Gabriel was one of 10 children. Gabriel is survived by his sister Marie Cunningham and predeceased by brothers; Richard, Gildore, Marshall, Donald, Philip and Gilbert, and sisters Fleurette and Jeanette. Also survived by sisters-in-law and bothers in-law; Jeanette, Anne, Alfreda, Marie, Marianne, Dolores, Cathy, John, Paul, James, Alde, Gerard, and Bernard. Predeceased by Theresa and Edmond.
Gabriel was very dedicated to his wife, kids and grandkids. His humble outlook on life was a true inspiration. According to Gabriel, the only things you really need in life is love, family, laughter, a warm bed a good cup of coffee and maybe a little treat from time to time. His laughter brought joy to everyone around him. He was a bright light to all that knew him, he will continue to shine through the family with the love that they will for carry for him.
Gabriel loved music, he loved listening, playing and watching live performances. He played the fiddle and harmonica, loved the joy that playing music brought to those listening. Family will always remember how his foot would tap to the rhythm of music the second he could hear it. At home, Gabriel and his wife enjoyed playing cards together, visiting with family and friends and keeping a watchful eye on the farm. They also enjoyed camping in their early years when the children were young. They enjoyed travelling together. Their most memorable trip was their 50th wedding anniversary, celebrating with the entire family in Mexico. Gabriel worked at Waypoint for 30 plus years and also maintained the farm he loved so much until his retirement from both. He remained very active in farming when his son Patrick took over the farm.
Gabriel will be lovingly remembered as Gabe, Slim, AJ or most importantly, Papa.
He leaves behind 7 grandchildren, Kayleigh, Alyssa and her husband Chris, Zachary and his partner Madison, Brianne and her husband Kyle, Alexander, Lucas, and Tatjana. As well as 6 great grandchildren. Brynn, Brooklyn, Harper, Hailey, Jaco,b and Isabelle.
The family would like to extend a special Thank You to all of the care giver’s at GBGH and the Georgian Manor. Thank you to all nurses, Doctors and PSWs that cared for him.
As per Gabriel’s wishes there will be no funeral. The family will arrange a celebration of life at a later time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke foundation or the Diabetes Association of Canada. Gabriel will be dearly missed by his cherished wife Margaret, all of his family and his beloved dog Bijou.
Papa’s enthusiasm, pride of family and joy for living was undeniable and it is with this in mind that the family will continue to move forward living and loving with him in our hearts.
Arrangements entrusted to LeClair Cremation Centre
