Buffam Leveille Funeral Home

12/24/2025

Our office will close on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., and will remain closed all day on Thursday, December 25, and Friday, December 26, 2025.
We remain available to you at any time. For immediate assistance from a funeral director, please call 705‑672‑3122.

Notre bureau fermera le mercredi 24 décembre 2025 à 12 h et restera fermé toute la journée du jeudi 25 décembre ainsi que du vendredi 26 décembre 2025.
Nous demeurons toutefois disponibles en tout temps. Pour obtenir l’assistance immédiate d’un directeur funéraire, veuillez composer le 705‑672‑3122.

12/24/2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rhéal Gélinas on December 17, 2025, at the Temiskaming Lodge, at the age of 88.

Rhéal Gélinas was the eldest son of the late Willie and Marie Gélinas. He is survived by his son Ron (Heather), his granddaughter Annick (Merrick), and his brother Aurèle. Rhéal was predeceased by his beloved wife, Yvonne (née Charland), as well as his brothers Leo and Normand. He is also lovingly remembered by his in-laws and extended family, including many nieces and nephews.

Rhéal spent his entire life in the Temiskaming Shores area, remaining close to his roots and the community he cherished. He married his soulmate, Yvonne, in 1958, and they shared a devoted marriage until her passing in 2020.

Rhéal had a long and dedicated career with the Ministry of Transportation (MTO), where he worked from 1956 until his retirement in 1992. Beyond his professional career, he had a strong passion for real estate, including building, purchasing, and renovating rental properties. Through this work, he developed lasting relationships and close ties with many members of the community.

Family was deeply important to Rhéal. He was a constant source of support to his son Ron (Heather) and his granddaughter Annick. He remained close and loyal to his brothers, particularly Leo and Aurèle, in his later years. A devout member of the Catholic Church, Rhéal's faith further strengthened his connection to the community he called home.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thanks to Fabienne Blain, Lisa Laplante, Rachel Gélinas, Aurèle Gélinas, and the nurses and staff at Northdale Manor and the Temiskaming Lodge for their exceptional care and compassion.

A memorial Mass for Rhéal and Yvonne will be held at Église catholique Sacré Coeur on Wednesday May 27, 2026.
Visitation from 10:00am-11:00 am. Mass commencing at 11:00 with luncheon to follow.
Internment at New Liskeard Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Ontario at https://alzheimer.ca/on/donate?form=Ontario_donate
or by phone at 1-416-967-5900.
Rhéal's care has been entrusted to Buffam Leveille Funeral Home. Condolences and tributes can be shared at www.buffamleveille.com

12/24/2025

It is with heavy hearts that the family announce the passing of Gilles Perreault, age 84, on December 22, at Temiskaming Hospital, surrounded by his family.

Gilles was a small man with a powerful will. Though he lived without a voice for a significant part of his life, he remained independent, determined, and fully present in the world around him. He made himself understood in his own way and never allowed silence to define him. His determination never wavered, and even in his final weeks, his body showed the same stubborn resolve he had carried for decades.

Earlier in life, Gilles was a hobby farmer at heart and had a lifelong love of animals. In more recent years, his happiest place was his summer camp on Gillies Lake. There, his days were spent cutting wood, the sound of his chainsaw never far away, keeping fires burning and staying busy from morning to night. Working with his hands, being outdoors, and following a simple routine brought him peace.

Gilles is survived by his wife, Rosanne Perreault, and his children Richard Perreault (Lori), Rémi Perreault, Rachelle Perreault-Léveillé (Alex), Gilles Perreault (Lynda), and Julie Tobler (Steven). He was predeceased by his son Robin, as well as his parents, brother and three sisters. He also leaves behind 14 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, two brothers, and one sister.

Gilles will be remembered for his resilience, his independence, and the quiet strength with which he lived.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the entire home care team as well as to all staff at Temiskaming Hospital. Gilles was cared for with exceptional compassion and dignity, and the family was equally supported every step of the way.

A special thank you goes to the Beverly-Ann Boros Hospice Palliative Care Suite, where Gilles spent his final weeks. The warmth, comfort, and privacy of this space made it feel like home during an incredibly difficult time.

For those wishing to express their sympathy, donations may be made to the Palliative Care Unit at Temiskaming Hospital, so that other families may experience the same comfort and support we so deeply appreciated. Donations may be made in person, by phone, or by mail, and may be given by credit card, cheque, cash, or debit. For more information, please contact 705-647-1088, extension 2223.

A celebration of life for Gilles will be held at a later date. Details will be shared at a later tim

Mr. Perreault's care has been entrusted to Buffam Leveille Funeral Home. Messages and tributes can be left on the website www.buffamleveille.com

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C'est le cœur lourd que la famille annonce le décès de Gilles Perreault, âgé de 84 ans, survenu le 22 décembre à l'Hôpital Temiskaming, entouré de sa famille.

Gilles était un petit homme doté d'une volonté remarquable. Bien qu'il ait vécu sans voix pendant une grande partie de sa vie, il est demeuré indépendant, déterminé et pleinement présent dans le monde qui l'entourait. Il se faisait comprendre à sa manière et n'a jamais laissé le silence le définir. Sa détermination n'a jamais faibli et, même dans ses dernières semaines, son corps a démontré la même ténacité qu'il avait portée pendant des décennies.

Plus tôt dans sa vie, Gilles était un fermier amateur dans l'âme et a toujours entretenu un profond amour pour les animaux. Plus récemment, l'endroit où il était le plus heureux était son camp d'été au lac Gillies. C'est là qu'il passait ses journées à couper du bois, le bruit de sa scie mécanique jamais bien loin, à entretenir le feu et à rester occupé du matin au soir. Travailler de ses mains, être à l'extérieur et suivre une routine simple lui apportaient la paix.

Gilles laisse dans le deuil son épouse, Rosanne Perreault, ainsi que ses enfants Richard Perreault (Lori), Rémi Perreault, Rachelle Perreault-Léveillé (Alex), Gilles Perreault (Lynda) et Julie Tobler (Steven). Il a été précédé par son fils Robin, ainsi que ses parents, un frère et trois sœurs. Il laisse également dans le deuil 14 petits-enfants, 4 arrière-petits-enfants, deux frères et une sœur.

On se souviendra de Gilles pour sa résilience, son indépendance et la force tranquille avec laquelle il a vécu.

La famille tient à exprimer sa profonde gratitude à toute l'équipe des soins à domicile ainsi qu'à l'ensemble du personnel de l'Hôpital Temiskaming. Gilles a reçu des soins empreints d'une compassion et d'une dignité exceptionnelles, et la famille a également été soutenue avec bienveillance à chaque étape.

Un remerciement tout particulier est adressé à la Suite de soins palliatifs Beverly-Ann Boros, où Gilles a passé ses dernières semaines. La chaleur, le confort et l'intimité de cet espace nous ont permis de nous sentir comme à la maison pendant une période extrêmement difficile.

En guise de témoignage de sympathie, des dons à l'Unité de soins palliatifs de l'Hôpital de Temiskaming seraient appréciés afin que d'autres familles puissent bénéficier du même soutien et du même réconfort que nous avons reçus. Les dons peuvent être faits en personne, par téléphone ou par la poste, et peuvent être effectués par carte de crédit, chèque, argent comptant ou carte de débit. Pour plus d'information, veuillez communiquer au 705-647-1088, poste 2223.

Une célébration de la vie de Gilles aura lieu à une date ultérieure. Les détails seront communiqués ultérieurement.

Les soins de M. Perreault ont été confiés à la Maison funéraire Buffam Léveillé. Les messages et les hommages peuvent être déposés sur le site internet www.buffamleveille.com

12/24/2025

12/15/2025

Jane E. St-Germain 1958 - 2025

It is with great sorrow that the family of Jane Elizabeth Ann Kennedy announce her passing the morning of December 11, 2025, after a short battle with Cancer.

Jane is predeceased by her parents Elizabeth Jane and George Cuthbert Kennedy. Surviving are her children, Jennifer Holmes, Rebecca Rheault, Evan Rheault, Brandon Kennedy and Zackery Kennedy. Jane loved her grandchildren, Alex, Abigail, Samantha, Joe, Aiden, Vanessa, Adrian, Benjamin, and Zepplin as well as her great grandchildren Bella Sage, Lincoln and Jayda. She is also survived by her siblings, Sandra (Evan), Donald, Linda, David, John, Krista, George Jr., sister-in-law Carole and many nieces and nephews.

Jane was a stubborn yet compassionate woman who knew how to fight for a cause and protect others. She spent a good portion of her life working with animals through the CKC and Cochrane animal hospital. This was something she loved so much.

As per Jane's request, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society can be made.

The family would like to thank all of the staff and doctors at Temiskaming Hospital who treated our mother with unbelievable care and compassion during her stay as well as everybody that shared knowledge, well wishes as well as any and all emotional support. Jane's care has been entrusted with Buffam Leveille Funeral Home, Haileybury. Buffam's has always treated our family with immense compassion in these trying times.

Condolences and tributes may be made at www.buffamleveille.com
Condolences and tributes may be made at www.buffamleveille.com

12/13/2025

On Wednesday, December 10 we gathered for our first annual Hearts Remember ceremony — a gentle evening of reflection for families in our community who are grieving the loss of a loved one this holiday season.
The evening was special, intimate, and deeply meaningful — filled with stories, quiet moments, and shared strength. We are profoundly grateful to everyone who joined us, whether in person or in spirit, and to all who continue to support one another through this tender time of year.
May we each find light in remembrance, warmth in connection, and peace in knowing that love endures — always.

12/12/2025

Robert Godden, known to many as Trapper Rob or McGyver, passed away tragically on Monday December 8, 2025. He was lost while doing what he loved, what he did every year for almost 60 years: marking trails and checking the ice thickness to begin a winter of safe ice travel to access his beloved trap line.

Rob was born in Englehart, on August 29, 1949 to Joe and Jean Godden. When he was a young teenager, the family moved to Latchford. There, he would meet his life partner Lynn (Lefebvre), and they married when he was just nineteen.

Rob spent his life working with his hands, but it was his brain that made what he did with his hands so genius. When Rob and Lynn married they bought a tiny three room manse, put it on logs, rolled it down the hill to a swampy plot of land nestled in the bay. There the two created shelter for their family. They built onto that little house-piece by piece- to the home it is today.

Rob had the work ethic of a farmer, the brain of an engineer and the skills of an elite tradesman. He could fix any type of machinery and if the parts were not available or too pricey he would craft a replacement part or create an even better system. He refused to spend a penny more than was necessary and stubbornly believed you could buy a decent pair of jeans for $10.

His carpentry skills were exceptional. He built his own home, lent his talents to countless friends and neighbors, and was quick to point out if a cut was off even a 32nd of an inch. Many came to him for advice and his know-how. He left many people with their heads spinning as he would explain his thought processes, his brain just worked at a higher level. He would say "A job well planned is half done."

He spent many hours helping Lynn beautify her gardens with wooden designs they would dream of together. You could often hear one of them yelling "measure twice, cut once!"

Rob worked for 28 years with the Ontario Clean Water Agency in the Town of Latchford. While it wasn't his passion, he took pride in providing for his family and believed deeply that any job worth doing was worth doing damn well. His commitment allowed him to "retire" at 52 and continue the work that drove him: fixing motors that probably should have been forgotten long ago. If it could be fixed he would fix it. The funds he received from the endless odd jobs financed his business of trapping. He was an important part of the ecosystem of the land he loved so much. He kept track of animal populations and worked hard to help maintain balance and educate others to see the importance of that balance.

His sometimes-quick temper and gruff exterior intimated some - but he was quick to lend a helping hand. He softened in his later years. He smiled and laughed often, told ridiculously bad dad jokes, and expressed his love through relentless good-natured teasing. He was deeply loved and will be missed by anyone who knew him.

As Rob moves on to the bush in the sky he leaves behind his life partner of 60 years, Lynn, who will be lost without him. His daughter Trina (Yves) Breault and son and best bud Rob (Leora)Godden. He was "Paw" to Madison (Paul) Jolliffe, Sophie Breault, Nadia Breault, and "Grandpa" to Vincent Godden, Bazil Godden and Ella Godden. He is also survived by his adoring sister Shirley Oukes, his Brother-in-law George (Sharon) Lefebvre and Sister in law Frances Lefebvre, as well as many many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents Jean and Joe Godden, mother and father-in-law Ruth and George Lefebvre, brother Jim Godden, sisters-in law Ethel St.Jean and Louise Godden brothers-in-law Elroy St. Jean, Jan Oukes and Basil Lefebvre and Jan Oukes. He is already greatly missed by his fur family, Thelma and Louise.

Rob's family wishes to recognize his trail buddies, Bob Livingston, Roger Clark, Mike Goulet, Greg Ellis, Speedy (Brian) Spencer, and Glen Brown. Their friendship meant a lot to Rob.

We also wish to extend our thanks and appreciation to ORNGE, the O.P.P., the Temiskaming Shores Fire Department water rescue team and the Latchford Fire Department and First Response. Particularly the pilots, Constables A.J. Parcher and Ray Fortin, and all around great guy Roger Clark. All of whom went above and beyond to bring Rob home.

A message from his family: if the ice can take Rob Godden it can take anyone, please be safe.

As per Rob's wishes, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion Sgt. Aubrey Cosens V.C. Branch 629

Mr. Godden's care has been entrusted to Buffam Leveille Funeral Home, Haileybury. Tributes and messages of condolences may be left on the website: www.buffamleveille.com

12/11/2025

It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of Brandon Dakota Batisse of Matachewan First Nation, at the age of 31 years. Brandon passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Timmins and District Hospital, with his loving family by his side.

Brandon was born May 27, 1994 in Kirkland Lake to Alex 'Sonny' Batisse and to the late Sylvia Dell. Brandon's life was filled with music—whether listening, playing, or writing songs, it was his passion. He loved spending time with his children and his nieces and nephews, creating memories that will be treasured forever. Brandon also had a deep appreciation for the great outdoors and enjoyed every moment spent with his family, his friends and his pets.

Brandon was predeceased by his beloved mother, Sylvia Dell, and siblings Justin Burr, Tiffany Burr, and Bradley Batisse. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his father Alex "Sonny" Batisse, his stepmother Gisele Duval Batisse, and his cherished son Asher. Brandon also leaves behind his siblings Jennifer (Armando) Medeiros, John (Maryanne) Bandy, Andrew Johnston, Alisha Burr, and Serena Batisse, along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who held a special place in his heart.

Brandon's family will receive relatives and friends at the Log Building at Matachewan First Nation, on Saturday December 13, 2025 beginning at 3:00PM. The funeral service will be held in the Log Building on Monday December 15, 2025 at 1:00pm. Reverend Valerie Paterson officiating. Interment will follow at the Matachewan First Nation Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations in memory of Brandon may be made to Diabetes Canada [1000-170 University Ave. Toronto, ON M5H 3B3]. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Buffam Leveille funeral home, Temiskaming Shores. Condolences and tributes may be shared at www.buffamleveille.com

12/05/2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Warren Maskell on November 24, 2025, peacefully at the Temiskaming Shores Hospital.

A much-loved husband of Yolande (Dodie) Maskell, and father to children: Dane Verret-Maskell (Elizabeth); Kaarina Ettles (Graeme); and Capucine Fortin Leblanc (Phil). Proud Pépère to all his boys: Taylor Leblanc, Logan, Hallen, Gavin, and Simon Ettles — and the real boss, Elliot Verret-Maskell.

Loving brother to Jack Maskell (Barb), Wendy Ollivier (Geoff, predeceased), Suzanne Young (Kerry, predeceased), and Doug Maskell (Debbie). Loving brother-in-law to Diane Lanigan (Maurice), Rejean Fortin (Carrie), Solange Fortin-Duval (Richard), and Giselle Fortin (partner Mark Sasseville). He will be fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and extended family members.

He was known by many as a gentle giant, with infectious laughter and dry wit. And if you were close enough to receive a crushing knee squeeze, you were worthy. He loved hunting with his brother Jack on Manitoulin Island, working on wood projects, and spending winters at his home in Portugal.

Heartfelt thanks to Dr. Pretty at the Temiskaming Shores Hospital, the caring staff in the Palliative Care Unit, and to the Buffam Leveille Funeral Home for their kindness and respectful care of Warren.

Mr. Maskell's final care has been
entrusted to the Buffam Leveille Funeral Home. As per Warren's wishes, there will be no service. Donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in your community are appreciated. Condolences and tributes may be shared at www.buffamleveille.com.

"Although you have gone where I cannot follow… I will find you."

12/02/2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Leonard 'Len' Brassard on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at the North Bay Regional Health Centre, surrounded by loved ones, at the age of 61 years.

Born on June 4, 1964, Len was the beloved son of the late Hermus Brassard and Ollie Lawrence. A longtime resident of Englehart, Len dedicated 30 years of service working for the Ontario Northland Railway. Len's greatest joy was his children. Len enjoyed spending evenings at the rink and summers at the ball field. He proudly cheered for his favorite goaltender—his son Jayden—and his favorite defense player—his daughter Ocean. He also enjoyed watching the Toronto Blue Jays and the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Len is survived by his son, Jayden Brassard (Makaila), and his daughter Ocean Brassard (Kian), and by their mother, Crystal (Darren), with whom he shared the gift of parenthood.

He will be lovingly remembered by his brother Rick (Pauline) Brassard, his sister-in-law Barb Brassard, and many extended family members and friends. Among those mourning his loss is his adored dog, Stella, who was his little sidekick. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Larry Brassard, and his sister Cecile Caputo.

Len's memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him. His devotion to those he loved will never be forgotten. His love, laughter, and dedication will continue to guide those he leaves behind.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at the North Bay Regional Health Centre who provided Len, and family, with exceptional care and compassion during Len's final days.

Len's final care has been entrusted to the Buffam Leveille funeral home. A Celebration of Life in memory of Len will be held at a later date. Condolences and memories can be shared at www.buffamleveille.com

11/29/2025

Jacques Joseph Labonte passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Temiskaming Hospital. He was 75 years old.

Born on April 13, 1950, in Belle Vallée, ON, Jacques was the beloved son of the late Paul Labonte and the late Julienne Paquin. His life was marked by devotion to family, generosity, and a deep love for those around him.

Jacques leaves behind his cherished children: Eric (Melanie) Labonte, Josée Labonte (David), France (Shaka) Larocque, and Dominic (Carling) Labonte. He was a proud grandfather to Jordan, Jacob, Lexie, Kevin, Maxim, Marquis, Janik, and Becks, and great-grandfather to Adrien, Mathéo, and Locket. As well, he leaves behind his companion Lynn Henri.

Jacques is also survived by his siblings Denis (Lilianne) Labonte, Gaston (Brenda) Labonte, Marie (Robert) Gauvreau, and Jules (Karen) Labonte, many loving in-laws, Anita, Denis (Louise), Carole (René), Suzanne (Réjean), Angèle (Roger), along with many extended family members. Mr. Labonte is predeceased by his loving and devoted wife Jacqueline Labonte (born Gauvreau) (2010), by his parents, by his brother Aurel, his sister Aline (late Armand) McLean and in-laws Paul and Patrick.

Mr. Labonte's legacy is one of kindness, strength, integrity, strong work ethic, and unwavering dedication to his family. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

The family of the late Jacques Labonte will receive relatives and friends at the Buffam Leveille funeral home - 483 Broadway St. Haileybury, on Monday, December 01, 2025, from 9:30 - 10:30am. The funeral mass will follow at St-Croix Catholic Church, Haileybury, at 11:00am. A light luncheon wil follow the celebration. As an expression of sympathy, donations can be made to the Community Cancer Care. Condolences and tributes may be shared at www.buffamleveille.com

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Jacques Joseph Labonte est décédé paisiblement, entouré de sa famille aimante, le vendredi 28 novembre 2025, à l'Hôpital de Temiskaming. Il était âgé de 75 ans.

Né le 13 avril 1950, à Belle Vallée, ON, Jacques était le fils bien-aimé de feu Paul Labonte et de feu Julienne Paquin. Sa vie a été marquée par la dévotion à sa famille, la générosité et un amour profond pour son entourage.

Jacques laisse dans le deuil ses enfants chéris : Eric (Melanie) Labonte, Josée Labonte (David), France (Shaka) Larocque et Dominic (Carling) Labonte. Il était un fier grand-père de Jordan, Jacob, Lexie, Kevin, Maxim, Marquis, Janik et Becks, et un fier arrière-grand-père d'Adrien, Mathéo et Locket. Il laisse également dans le deuil sa compagne Lynn Henri.

Jacques laisse aussi dans le deuil ses frères et sœurs Denis (Lilianne) Labonte, Gaston (Brenda) Labonte, Marie (Robert) Gauvreau et Jules (Karen) Labonte, ainsi que de nombreux beaux-frères et belles-sœurs aimants, Anita, Denis (Louise), Carole (René), Suzanne (Réjean), Angèle (Roger), de même que de nombreux membres de la famille élargie. M. Labonte fut prédécédé par son épouse aimante et dévouée, Jacqueline Labonte (née Gauvreau) (2010), par ses parents, par son frère Aurel, sa sœur Aline (feu Armand) McLean et ses beaux-frères Paul et Patrick.

L'héritage de M. Labonte est celui de la gentillesse, de la force, de l'intégrité, d'une solide éthique de travail et d'un dévouement indéfectible envers sa famille. Sa mémoire restera vivante dans le cœur de tous ceux qui l'ont connu.

La famille de feu Jacques Labonte recevra parents et amis à la maison funéraire Buffam Leveille - 483, rue Broadway, Haileybury, le lundi 1er décembre 2025, de 9h30 à 10h30. La messe des funérailles suivra à l'église catholique Sainte-Croix, Haileybury, à 11h00. Un léger goûter suivra la célébration. En guise de sympathie, des dons peuvent être faits à l'organisme Community Cancer Care. Les condoléances et hommages peuvent être partagés au www.buffamleveille.com.