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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Romuald Légère known fondly as “Rome” or “the Bear”, peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at the age of 82.
He will be missed by his beautiful loving wife of 60 years, Laurette Légère (née Jalbert). Proud and protective, loving and devoted father of Carole Légère-Bailey (Brian), Linda Légère -Tetzlaff (Reynold), and Lisa Légère -Ingles (Robert). Admired and beyond loving Papa of Mathew Ingles, Megan Ingles, Emily Tetzlaff, Cole Tetzlaff, Alexa Bailey and Reece Bailey. To Papa, his wife, children, and grandchildren were the center of his entire world. He lived for them and the time spent together was the most cherished and valued part of his life.
Also missed by his siblings Albertine Légère and Raymonde Cormier and brother-in-law of Alphonse Cormier, Barb Légère, Nancy Légère, and Jeannine Légère. Predeceased by his parents Lydia (née Haché) and Martin, his brothers Mederic Légère, Gil Légère, and Réal Légère from Sarnia, Ontario, and three sisters, Amabilis Légère from Sarnia, Ontario (formerly of Sherbrooke, Quebec), Alphonsine Chiasson (Victor) from Tracadie-Sheila, New Brunswick, and Marguerite Cayer (Andre) from Shelton, Connecticut, USA.
He was a very special uncle to many nieces and nephews, treating them as though they were children of his own. His cousins having experienced the same losses were like siblings to him. Included in Romuald’s family were Steve, Vasile, and Coco who he often referred to as his sons. Romuald was a remarkable individual whose warm spirit and kindness touched the lives of everyone he met. He had a unique ability to make people feel welcomed and special, embracing them not just as friends but as family. A wise and compassionate man, Romuald was an amazing businessman who navigated the complexities of being an entrepreneur with skill and integrity. His unwavering support for those he cared about was a constant source of strength and encouragement. He had a gift for storytelling, using his tales and memories to inspire and uplift others, always offering a lesson or insight that resonated deeply. Throughout his life, Romuald faced challenges with determination, never shying away from adversity. He was relentless in his pursuit of understanding and improvement, striving to make the world a better place for everyone around him. A man of many passions, Rome embraced life with enthusiasm. He found joy in playing his guitar and singing, a reflection of his love for music. He was always eager to learn new things, constantly expanding his horizons. His mornings were often spent savoring coffee with his fellow "coffee cowboys," where laughter and camaraderie filled the air. Proudly, he worked until the age of 81 before retiring, a testament to his dedication and strong work ethic. His commitment to his family extended to his close friends, who were considered part of his extended family including; Doug, Bruno, John, Gerard, Fernand, Gaston, Serge, Maurice, and George. Romuald leaves behind a legacy of unending love and devotion to his family and friends. His spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him. As we remember him, let us honor his memory by embodying the kindness, wisdom, and determination he exemplified every day of his life. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
Family and friends will be received at Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on Friday, February 28, 2025 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Thomas D’Aquin, 895 Champlain Rd., Sarnia, on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. A private entombment will take place. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to the St. Joseph’s Hospice (cheques only at the funeral home please) or through an act of kindness to honour his compasionate and generous spirit.
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. O’Mahony, Dr. Shetty, Dr. Lilly, Dr. MacSweeney, the Bluewater Health staff and his home care nurse Theresa who provided exceptional care to our father during his lengthy illness. Your unwavering dedication, compassion, and professionalism made a profound difference in his journey. From the moment he entered your care, you treated him with respect and kindness, ensuring that he was comfortable and supported. Please know that your efforts did not go unnoticed, and we are forever grateful for the kindness and support you extended to our family.