LECLAIR, Joseph

As the sun went down on Wednesday, November 30th, Joe was freed from the armour placed on him by Parkinson’s Disease.  The room was filled with sadness and not having him with us any longer is difficult to believe.  As we spoke of our memories of happiness, laughter and his big heart we all feel that he heard us. Joe was the son of the late Frank and the late Muriel.  Joe is survived by his sisters Betty (Albert) and Rose (late Jim) and his brothers Richard (R.T. – Donna), Patrick (Vicki), the late Bill (Ida) and the late Michael (Connie).  Joe will be lovingly remembered by his large extended family.  Joe was always dressed so handsomely and he had a tremendous passion for his vintage Ford Thunderbirds.  This summer he enjoyed rides in his 61 T-bird.  Thank you Garry Michaud (Ann). Patrick and R.T. LeClair you were all great chauffeurs and also a bit of a nurse on those outings.  Joe always kept his family and friends close.  Gary McCourt, your visit from Thunder Bay gave him such happiness. Frank Provenzano, the relationship you and Joe had over the years was so special. Thank you to the many other far away friends who came for a visit, he loved seeing you.  As many know Joe loved to travel to far off places.  His visits to Australia, New Zealand, Africa, Churchill Manitoba and more left him with many stories and photos to share with all of us.  Joe wanted his goddaughter Colleen Esposti (Terry) to follow his footprints in Australia and he gifted her with a surprise trip upon her university graduation. Joe was blessed to have a lifelong friend in Ursula Nielsen (Edgar).  She devoted her time to caring for Joe, especially during the last few years.  There was nothing more important to Ursula than Joe’s quality of life.  Joe always knew he was in the best of hands.  When Ursula was with him, he was at ease.  Joe knew that everything was ok when Urs was there.  They enjoyed their outings to the waterfront and their lunch/dinner outings and shopping.  Dr. Kucher, you have an incredible gift in understanding Parkinson’s Disease and treatment.  You saw past Parkinson and that Joe was a real person not just someone needing assistance.  Brenda (the appointment magician) and Audra, you both were so kind to Joe.  Brenda you were even there to support us to his final moment.  Joe always wanted all of you to have a ride in his ’61 Thunderbird. Joe was a gentle person who only left a gentle footprint on this earth. He has left a huge hole in our hearts.  As much as we would love to have him back, we could never see him suffer this again.  In the words of Joe himself, “Joe LeClair is everywhere.”  The T-Bird horn is honking for you Joe. Joe’s final ride in his beloved car was driven by Garry Michaud and Ursula to his final resting spot.  The love we have for you, may it lift you up high to breathe gently and walk freely.   Eternal peace and love. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, 215 St. James St, 705-759-8456.  Expressions of sympathy and condolences available on-line at; www.osullivanfuneralhome.com.