September 23, 1942 – September 19, 2020
It is with great sorrow that the family of Rene Chartier announces his passing 4 days before his 78th birthday on Saturday, September 19, 2020 at Selkirk Hospital after his courageous battle with cancer.
He is survived and terribly missed by his wife Elaine, children Len (Trisha) & Lesley (Brad), grandchildren Chelsea, Nathan and Arika, in-laws Donna, Sharon, Dorothy (Mike), Lorelei (Peter), Kelly (Connie), Trish & Dave and many nieces and nephews.
Rene was born in St. Boniface hospital September 23, 1942. An extremely strong work ethic boosted by natural talent brought him to the Detroit Red Wings farm team tryouts at 16 years of age, where he jokingly advised that he ‘flew first class down there and propeller back’. From 1962-68, he worked as a Lab Technician at Domtar Mill in Red Rock, ON, though took a break when he and a buddy decided to tour Europe for a few months. Upon his return to Canada, he attended Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, ON and graduated in 1971 with a Bachelor of Arts degree while working for Abitibi logging. After his graduation, he once again worked at Domtar in Red Rock before he was employed by Macmillan Bloedel in Nipigon, where he meticulously scheduled the shipping orders of plywood and hockey shafts. His road into the electrical trade started one day while he was heading to BC and stopped to visit his brother Louis in Manitoba. With numerous long hours, formal education/ training and most likely a few zaps after touching a live wire or two, he became a Journeyman Electrician. His work in Manitoba included McCaine Electric, other electrical contractors and self-employment doing contract work for McDonalds. He ultimately was employed by the City of Winnipeg as Property Standards Inspector, Existing Buildings Inspector, Electrical Inspector and Housing Inspector where he was responsible for inspecting electrical, plumbing and structural work. He retired in 2002.
Rene was known to have an unparalleled work ethic, where his motto was ‘if you’re gonna do a job, then do it right’. Although he saw the need for legal contracts, he liked to believe that you could trust people to keep their word. He enjoyed golfing, camping and browsing for hours at Princess Auto. He had a very soft spot for family, friends, neighbours, anyone who wanted help and all animals. He pretended not to know that the family dog slept on the couch every night – though her toys were left there and heard her nails clicking across the floor when she went back to her dog bed when the alarm clock went off. He was most passionate about his two horses though. After retirement, he enjoyed the daily routine and tasks of looking after Cognac and Trouper on the acreage that he shared with his wife. He loved puttering, fixing and figuring out how machines or electronics worked. He also enjoyed many camping trips to spend time with family and grandchildren.
In keeping with Rene’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family memorial will be held to honour him. In lieu of flowers should friends so desire, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted to: Interlake Cremation & Memorial Services