Sr. Regina Rousseau

Sister Regina Rousseau

(Sister M. Dolores)

April 9, 1932

- May 15, 2023

May your love be upon me, O Lord, as I place my hope in you.

(from Psalm 33)

Sister Regina Rousseau (Sister M. Dolores) transitioned into God’s heart for eternity on May 15, 2023, at St. Joseph’s Motherhouse, North Bay, Ontario.

Sister Regina was born in Killarney, Ontario, child of Margaret Lucy Roque and Edward Rousseau (both predeceased).  She is survived by many cousins and their families.

Regina entered the congregation of The Sisters of St. Joseph of Sault Ste. Marie, September 8, 1949 from her home parish, St. Bonaventure, Killarney, Ontario.

From 1951-1966, Sister Regina taught in Fort William, Port Arthur, Sudbury, Blind River, Sturgeon Falls, and Garden River.  She served as music consultant from 1966-1974 for 24 schools in the Thunder Bay area.  Following studies at the University of Windsor, she returned to Thunder Bay continuing her ministry as music consultant until 1982.

Regina served as principal of Our Lady of Lourdes School, Manitouwadge 1983-1989, retiring after 38 years of dedicated service in education in Northern Ontario.

Following a sabbatical year, Sister Regina returned to Thunder Bay to be Manager of Environmental Services at St. Joseph’s Heritage 1990-1996.

She served as Administrator of St. Joseph’s Motherhouse, North Bay, in 1996-2006, here she wore ‘many’ hats, one of which was definitely a construction hat, working to address unmet housing needs for seniors, college and university students.

In retirement, Sister Regina continued to share life with novices at the McLaren Street site.  Her trained voice continued to give praise at liturgies and celebrations.

Regina had a zest for life and loved a good celebration.  Her greatest passion was Killarney.  It was in the very marrow of her being.  She celebrated with sister companions, a final trip in November 2021, where she spent time visiting familiar sites and reconnecting with family.

Regina’s infirmary presence was gift to everyone who connected with her.  She continued to celebrate with gratitude the gift of life.

Sister Regina will be received at St. Joseph’s Motherhouse at 3:30 pm on Friday, May 19, 2023.  A Prayer Vigil will take place at 6:30 pm.  Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at St. Joseph’s Motherhouse, Sacred Heart Chapel at 4:00 pm on Saturday, May 20, 2023.

Masks are required within the Motherhouse.

Expressions of sympathy or donations to the works of the Congregation in memory of Sister Regina may be made at www.csjssm.ca

Sister Regina rest in peace.