LePoudre
Paul LePoudre of Davidson passed away peacefully, with his loving family by his side on Monday, August 12, 2013.
Paul is survived by his sons Julius (Madeliene) LePoudre, Daniel (Joanne) LePoudre; daughters Shirley (Harvey) Buchholz, Deborah (Clarke) Doell, Darlene (Wayne) Nadeau; 13 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren; sisters Paula Kenny, Leona Gartner, and numerous other family members.
Paul was predeceased by his loving wife Gabrielle; father Jules, mother Marie; brothers Octave, Andre and Clifford as well as young brothers Andre and Octave in Belgium; sisters Mary, Andrea and Suzanna; daughter-in-law Sharon LePoudre and other family members.
Paul was born on June 29, 1917. He was one of 11 children born to Jules and Marie LePoudre originally from Gets, Belgium. Earlier his family had moved to Canada and eventually took up farming in the Davidson area. Nine of their children were raised on this farm. Life was tough. They learned how to work hard from a young age. As a young man, Paul worked as a hired man for a relative or neighbor, giving his paycheck back to his parents. This was done until he reached the marrying age and decided to settle on his own. He met the love of his life, Gabrielle Cool, also of Davidson, and they were married on Nov 14, 1944. They set up their home on a farm near his parents. Here they raised their five children: Julius, Shirley, Deborah, Daniel and Darlene. Paul’s life was blessed indeed. His first love was Gabrielle; his second love was his farm. But with the arrival of family, his greatest love became the love of his family. As children grew up and married he was overjoyed. He loved his sons-in-law and daughters-in-law as his own. As each bought or built homes – he was there helping to build and renovate. He was a very skilled carpenter. Many grandchildren and great-grandchildren were born in the years to follow. Each held a special place in his heart.
Paul and Gabrielle retired from the farm in 1980 and built a beautiful retirement home in Davidson, where they enjoyed many years with family and friends and the numerous family gatherings held here.
After losing the love of his life Gabrielle in 2004, Paul’s life changed. With love and support from his large family – he healed. He grew his big gardens and enjoyed his flowers. He still spent time helping at the farm. The large family gatherings were still held in his home.
During the last of his 95th year, Paul’s health failed and he moved into the Health Centre as a permanent resident. With his excellent care and unfaltering drive to be there for his family – he did reach his 96th birthday.
Paul was a humble, caring and giving man. His strength and faith were so strong. “His legacy to his family and friends is one of love, commitment and steadfastness.”
Prayers were held on Thursday, Aug. 22. The Mass of Christian Burial was held at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Friday, Aug. 23 with Rev. Father Eugene Warnke officiating. Interment followed in family plot, Davidson Cemetery.
Lunch was served by the CWL. Hanson’s Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.
If family or friends so desire, memorial tributes may be directed to the Davidson and District Health Foundation, Sacred Heart Church Fund, Sask. Heart and Stroke Fund or the charity of your choice.