Micheline Charbonneau

Charbonneau, Micheline (Emmell) (1940-2019)   It is with profound sadness that the Charbonneau family announces the passing of our matriarch Mitch at the North Bay Regional Health Centre, in her 79th year.  She was surrounded by her loving family.

Mitch was the eldest child of the late Edgar and Laurette (Girard) Emmell.  She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Leo Charbonneau.  Dear mother of Alain (Kelly) and Andy (Lynn).  Memere Charbonneau will be fondly remembered by her grandchildren Andrew, Kelli, Brett, Renee and Victoria.  Also survived by her brothers Edgar Emmell (Brenda) and Raymond Emmell (Sylvia); brother in laws Don Charbonneau (Bea), Alphege Charbonneau (Therese); sister in laws Patsy Cloutier (Paul deceased) and Simone Lafleur (Armand “Red” Charbonneau deceased).  She was predeceased by her beloved daughter Leona, two bothers Rene and Robert “Bob” (Joyce surviving).

Mitch will be fondly remembered by many wonderful nieces, nephews and friends, near and far.  Her greatest legacy was her selfless devotion and caring for her family and friends.  Her grandchildren were her pride and joy.  This was evident in the close bonds that she shared with each of them.  Mitch and her husband Leo were inseparable throughout their journey in life.  Her faith and family traditions were very important to her and this was evident in everything she did.  They owned and operated the Restaurant and BP gas station and the north “Y” in Kirkland Lake for 5 years.  Then they moved their family to Rouyn, Quebec to manage the Tilden Car Rental.  Eventually their path brought them here to North Bay where they managed the Tilden/National Car Rental-Murdoch Group Inc., along with the North Bay Airport Coffee Shop.  Mitch happily retired in 1999.  She embraced the joy of living and all that life had to offer.  Mitch was adventurous, having travelled around the world and always had a great story to tell.  She liked bringing people together to celebrate holidays and life’s milestones.  Mitch was famous for her gatherings at the house on the lake, her scrumptious meat pies, baking and the occasional practical joke.  Her endless knitting projects were made with love and given to family, friends, to the NBRHC – Obstetrics unit and to those in need.  Mitch always lifted people’s spirits high, encouraging those around her to pursue their dreams.  Our memories we will hold dear in our hearts, until we meet again.

Family will be receiving friends at Hillside Funeral Services, 362 Airport Rd., on Wednesday October 9th from 2 until 4 and 6 until 8 pm.  A funeral mass will be held at St. Vincent de Paul Church on Thursday October 10th at 11 am followed by a luncheon.  Donations to the North Bay Regional Health Centre Foundation (Cancer Care) in memory of Mitch will be gratefully acknowledged by her family.