Alain Chartrand

Marcel Bonin

Sep 07, 1931 - Jan 18, 2025

QUEBEC, QC

A four-time Stanley Cup champion, Marcel Bonin, who also wrestled a bear and ate glass for fun, passed away at 93. The 5-foot-10, 170-pound star won the Stanley Cup once with the Detroit Wings in 1955 and then thrice with the Canadiens in 1958, 1959, and 1960, respectively, over the course of his nine-season NHL career. He played 454 games from 1952 to 1962, scoring a total of 272 points (97 goals and 175 assists). He aced his first 107 games with Detroit, then 67 with the Boston Bruins from 1955 to 1956, prior to skating his final 280 with the Canadiens from 1957 to 1962. He was also well-known as the "Bear wrestler," as he wrestled a circus bear in an attempt to win $1,000. Needless to say, the bear won the wrestling competition, but Bonin won himself the title in the hockey realm. All through his fascinating career, Bonin endlessly entertained his teammates with his larks, munching glass and keeping them on their feet with his stories; his amazing life was better than any fiction. In 1954, while Marcel was in Edmonton, he suffered from a back injury that made him retire. He was bedridden for two months after the surgery and was forced to wear a brace. After retirement, Bonin served as a police officer and pistol-shooting instructor in Joliette. Then, he also served about a decade and a half in student security with the city's school board. It was not until a few years ago that Marcel was an occasional visitor to Montreal's Bell Centre for Canadiens games. He was always welcomed with open arms in the team's alumni lounge, where his enthralling stories were usually looked forward to by many.

Bernard Descôteaux

Mar 11, 1947 - Jan 12, 2024

QUEBEC, QC

Bernard Descôteaux, the esteemed former editor-in-chief of Le Devoir, has passed away at the age of 77 after battling cancer. Le Devoir announced his peaceful departure, recognizing his significant contributions to the newspaper from 1999 to 2016. Born in Nicolet, Quebec, Descôteaux's academic journey included studies in political science at the Université de Montréal and further exploration of politics and economics at the University of Toronto. Rising through the ranks of Le Devoir, he started as a reporter and ascended to the role of parliamentary correspondent in Quebec City and Ottawa before assuming the position of editor-in-chief. Premier François Legault expressed condolences, remembering Descôteaux as a brilliant and kind man. As a testament to his leadership, the Ordre national du Québec named Descôteaux an officer in 2010, acknowledging Le Devoir's continued circulation and influence under his guidance. Post-Le Devoir, Descôteaux chaired the board of Université Laval's Centre d'études sur les médias, showcasing his ongoing commitment to media studies. Renowned for his calm and thoughtful demeanor, Descôteaux's legacy extends beyond journalism, influencing the political landscape and leaving an indelible mark on those he mentored. Bernard Descôteaux's passing leaves a void in journalism, and his memory will be cherished by loved ones, colleagues, and the broader community influenced by his wisdom and dedication. May he rest in eternal peace.

Pierre Mailloux

Jan 13, 1949 - Jan 11, 2024

QUEBEC, QC

Dr. Pierre Mailloux, the controversial Quebec psychiatrist and radio host, known to many as Doc Mailloux, passed away at the age of 74 in Trois-Rivières. The news was confirmed on the Facebook page of his podcast, Doc Mailloux et Josey, stating that he peacefully left this world following complications from an incurable illness. Born in Normandin, Quebec, Mailloux pursued medicine at Université Laval and psychiatry at McGill University. His career included service as a psychiatrist in the Canadian Armed Forces, providing expert testimony in numerous trials. Beginning his radio journey with CKAC in 1995, Mailloux remained a constant presence in the public eye. Despite his professional achievements, he faced controversy, receiving an official reprimand from the Collège des médecins for making divisive statements about the intelligence of Black and Indigenous people. Known for his outspoken views on various sensitive topics, Mailloux's legacy is marked by both acclaim and criticism. The family expressed gratitude for the support received during his final moments. As we reflect on his complex legacy, Dr. Pierre Mailloux will be remembered for his contributions to psychiatry and media, sparking discussions that, at times, challenged societal norms. May he find peace in the eternal embrace.

Joanne Hewson

Aug 22, 1930 - Nov 30, 2023

QUEBEC, QC

Joanne Hewson Rees, a pioneering woman, peacefully passed away on December 1st, 2023, at 93 in Westmount, Quebec. Born on August 23rd, 1930, in Montreal, she was the wife of the late Henry Maynard Rees. Joanne was famous for her talent in art and athletics, her competitive spirit, and her generous nature. Growing up in Hampstead, Joanne excelled academically and developed her passion for skiing. Her artistic talent flourished early, leading her to a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at McGill University and Concordia University. She became a recognized landscape watercolourist. Joanne's ski prowess became evident at McGill University. Here she became an outstanding intercollegiate champion skier. She was one of the four original members of the first Canadian Women's Olympic Ski Team. Joanne also became one of the first certified female ski instructors at the Mont Tremblant Ski School. In her post-competitive career, Joanne coached the McGill Women's Ski Team, co-founded the Ski Jay Ski School. She was also a member of the Penguin Ski Club. She transitioned to golf, becoming a Club Champion and volunteering to encourage young girls to take up the sport. Joanne's legacy lives on through her accomplishments and her impact on skiing, and golf.