Joseph "Mel" GAGNON

On Saturday, March 2nd, our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Mel Gagnon, passed away at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital at the age of 70 years. Joseph Hermel “Mel” Gagnon was born in St. Andre, NB on July 29, 1948 to parents Romeo and Jeanne (Caron) Gagnon.

Mel is survived by his wife of 47 years, Nicole (Desjardins), his son Michel (Andrea Gonnely) of Elkford, BC his daughter Sonya (Leonard) Hammond of Sparwood, BC, and the precious grandchildren he absolutely adored: Nicholas, Paul and Katelyn Gagnon, Madelyn Smith and Danni Hammond. Also left to mourn his passing are 4 sisters: Gisele Beardsley (Murray) of Grand Falls, NB, Diane Gagnon (Robert Roy) of Montreal, QC, and Marise Gagnon and Christianne Gagnon (Alan Stairs) of Quebec, QC, 3 brothers: Jean-Guy “John” (Murielle Theriault), Gilles-Marie “Bill”(Lise Bellefleur) of Saint-Andre and Jean-Maurice (Jacqueline Fraser) of Grand Falls, NB as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, his infant brother Jean-Francois, and his brother-in-law Roger Goulet

Mel was an outgoing, friendly man, always willing to lend a helping hand whenever and wherever needed. His gentle heart and fun-loving spirit made children and animals flock to him instantly .... the “Pied Piper”. A finishing carpenter by trade, Mel sustained serious work-related injuries in his mid thirties that changed his role to “Mr. Mom”. While he was a meticulous carpenter with an eye for detail, he was also an amazing stay-at-home dad and excellent chef! Family was always first and foremost in Mel’s life. Many of his happiest moments were spent at the family cottage in New Brunswick, fishing with family and friends.

Mel and Nicole lived in Grand Falls and Quispamsis, NB until the urge to be closer to their children and grandchildren led to their move to the Elk Valley in June 2015. Being able to actively participate in their lives meant the world to him …. and them! Mel had a heart of gold and hands of steel and compassion. May he rest in peace and all of us recount why we are all better for having known him.

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