Tribute

N. René Lachance (1949-2024)

On October 30th, 2024, our kind and thoughtful René Lachance calmly and peacefully passed away in his home.

René, a father, brother, son, and friend to all, was born in Flin Flon, Manitoba in 1949 to the late Ernest “Ernie” and Emma (Langan) Lachance. He is survived by his older brother, Mel (Gundi) Lachance, his two daughters, Danielle (Justin) Lachance and Madison Lachance, his niece and god-daughter Lori (Bernadette) Lachance, and his three grandchildren: Christopher, Jackson, and Audrey.

René grew up in St. Charles, in Winnipeg, Manitoba; he spent many years in Calgary, Alberta, and later returned to Winnipeg where he continued to pour into his community. Settling into his final years, he moved to Duncan, British Columbia, to be closer to his brother and youngest daughter.

He also loved to see the world and experienced many adventures traveling to new places as a younger man. René would tell you that one of his only regrets was not going to Disneyland.

René tried to learn something new every day, and as a jack-of-all-trades, his career gave him every opportunity. No matter what it was, he always took great pride in his work and cared for the people on his team.

He had a competitive spirit throughout his life, whether playing baseball, or bowling, curling, pool, darts, or a friendly game of cards, René always played to win. While in Winnipeg, he participated in the ANAVETS 283 Darts House League for many years and has the all trophies to prove it.

His passion for knowledge was reflected by the book he always kept on hand, and the several others on rotation, at any given time. Despite his constant thirst for knowledge, he never missed an opportunity to have a nap, and could take advantage at any time or place. He was always quick to remind us, “I’m not sleeping, just resting my eyes.”

René’s faith abounded, and his words and deeds were defined by his joy and trust in Christ. He was a member of Maranatha Evangelical Free Church in Winnipeg up until he moved to BC; he continued to attend virtual sermons at WestWinds Community Church and Oasis City Church when it became harder for him to get around. His friends will tell you about his unrestrained kindness and innately service-minded attitude. Anyone who encountered him spoke of his character. He couldn’t help but make friends wherever he went, and built an incredible community of people in Duncan after he made his cross-country move in 2018. The family is unimaginably grateful to his neighbours and friends who were instrumental in supporting and uplifting him as his health declined over the past two years.

Paramount for René was his family, which he couldn’t help but express to anyone who listened. He was never short on words of encouragement and support, and took immense pride in seeing his daughters thriving; it was his favourite topic of conversation.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

Service and celebration to take place at a later date