It is truly with heavy hearts that the family wishes to announce the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend Gilles “Coach” Vaillancourt at his home on Monday, January 13, 2020 with his wife by his side. He leaves behind his loving wife Irene (nee Maslanka – Burke), children Terry (Sue), Jeff (Tracey) and Kim (Alex), grandchildren Brina (Kris) Jarrett, Paige (Anthony) and Faith (Michael) and great grandson Auston. Gilles was a wonderful stepfather to Cameron (Don), Sheri (Michael) and step grandfather to McKenna. He will be sadly remembered by his siblings Anna (Bob), Suzanne, Roberta (predeceased), Barb, Sylvio (Sue), Gerry (Bonita) and Nicole (Gilles). He was the son of the late Alphonse and Antoinette Vaillancourt. Gilles was a well-loved friend to his neighbours and the boys at the “coffee club” in Vermilion Lake, he was given the nickname “Coach” as he was a mentor to many. He loved hunting with his brother Sylvio, fishing with his best buddy Lucien and traveling with his other best buddy Don. Friends and family are wondering what they will do without him. Gilles retired from Falconbridge where he worked as a hoistman, he enjoyed his retirement immensely. As per his wishes, cremation has taken place, there will be no service or visitation.
I am so sorry for your loss, my heart goes out to you Irene and family! Although it is not so comforting at this time, I’m sure mon oncle André received him with open arms and not alone! My thoughts and prayers are with you and family during these most difficult times.
January 15, 2020