Howard Fontaine

Howard Fontaine

With heavy hearts and deep sadness, we announce the passing of Howard Fontaine, husband of Aline, on October 1, 2018 at the Selkirk Regional Health Centre, at 78 years of age.

Howard was born in Sagkeeng First Nation on February 26, 1940 to George and Josephine (nee Bruyere) Fontaine. He was sent to Fort Alexander Residential School, at the age of six where, despite many hardships, was a good student and developed a lifelong passion for hockey. He excelled as a player and coached his three sons and countless boys over the years. Howard was a man of faith, an incredibly hard worker, determined, practical and a talented woodworker.

He married Aline Fenez in 1961, celebrating 57 years of marriage this past February. Howard’s memory lives on in his four children, daughter Debra Smith (Chris); sons, Craig (Joanne), Dan (Liza) and Troy (Heather); nine grandchildren Scott Smith, Tamara Ings (Eric), Taylor Robinson (Tim), Kyle, Amy, Tanner, Josephine, Ella and Robert Fontaine; two great-granddaughters, Jade and Ezry Ings.

Howard was a much loved and respected Papa/Mishom always ready with a treat, hug and cheeky smile to share with his grandchildren.

Howard had many jobs relocating to provide the best opportunities for his family. He and Aline settled in Selkirk in 1978 when he took the position of General Works Manager with Parks Canada (Lower Fort Garry) where he retired in 1995.

Flowers are gratefully declined, but if you wish to honour Howard’s memory please consider a donation to Selkirk and District Community Foundation, 200 Eaton Ave. Selkirk, MB R1A 0W6, selkirkfoundation@shaw.ca

As per Howard’s wishes a private family service was held at Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk, MB that Rev. Fr. Stephen Sharman officiated.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Howard Fontaine, please visit our floral store.