It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to Gene who passed away in Edmonton, AB on November 19, 2021 at the age of 39. Left to mourn are his parents Jean-Claude and Brenda Lessard, his older sister Monique (Rick) Dawson, his younger sister Naomi (Mark) Vucurevich, nephew Lorenzo Vucurevich, his Grandmother Olive Bougie along with numerous Uncles, Aunts, Cousins and friends. Gene was predeceased by his Grandparents Lorenzo and Bernadette Lessard as well as his Grandfather Fernand Bougie.
Gene grew up in Lethbridge, AB and was a fun loving and active child that was always outside playing with his sisters and friends. It was hard not to fall in love with Gene with his distinct laugh and infectious personality. He leaves behind many close friends that he has touched over the years. As a child, Gene enjoyed playing the violin, riding bikes and caring for his treasured aquarium. As a youngster, he dreamed of building a house, one day, where the walls were one big aquarium from which he could watch a variety of aquatic life all day long.
As he grew, Gene showed real interest in gardening and this fostered his love for cooking. He was able to take simple ingredients and produce a culinary treat. His passion for food and cooking took him to Edmonton where he became a work camp Chef. He provided the camp workers a taste of home and it was his way of providing care and comfort. As they say: The best and most beautiful things in life cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.
“Gene, you will always be in our hearts until the day we once again hold you in our arms.”
A closed family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Donations in Gene’s memory can be made to the Canadian Asthma Society.
Anneli Janssens says
My deepest condolences on your tragic loss, Brenda & Naomi and family. My prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Hugs xx
Catherine Orchard says
Deepest sympathy to the family, Benda, Jean, Monique and Naomi for your tragic loss. I have so many fond memories with Gene and will miss him greatly. Thoughts and prayers to you all at this difficult time.
Monique says
Thank you Catherine for the kind words.
Claudine Crook says
Deepest condolences and prayers to family and friends. I remember him as a child as he was in the same school as my daughter, He was fun, vibrant and full of energy.
Val Elias says
Brenda, Naomi and family, I’m so sorry for your loss. It is tragic, unbearably sad, and I’m thinking of you during this time.
Sara Benson Graham says
I’m so sorry to the Lessard family. I have so many great memories with Gene in them! The very last time I ran into him Jan and I had the best night!!! He crosses my mind often and still will. RIP friend.
Naomi Vucurevich says
Thanks Sara! I know Gene had the fondest memories of you and your family
Tara Duffy Kirchmayer says
I am so sorry to hear this news . Although I lost touch with Gene over the years , I have such great memories of him from our junior high days. We shared a lot of laughs and he will always hold a special place in my heart . My condolences to you all.
Liam McKenna says
My condolences to your family. I had not spoken with Gene in a long time but I have many good memories of hanging out in edmonton and high school in lethbridge. He really was a character, that laugh, the hair. Rest in peace my friend.
Deb Ackerman says
My sincere condolences to you and your family at this time.
Antonio J Ferrelli says
I’m heartbroken to hear that Gene had passed I was planning On calling the police because it’s been over a month since anyone had heard from he. He was elusive sometimes when It came to keep it ng in touch. Gene was one of my roommates 2 years ago. The situation was bad for both of us so I helped him move out of that place and supported his getting into his own apt. Gene was amazing when It came to cooking and had an amazing resume when it came to being a chef.
He struggled sometimes and being there for him was a pleasure to be able 2 be a positive influence to him.
He will be sadly missed by myself and the many people who knew him.
He will always live on in our hearts and minds so let’s keep Genes memory alive.
My condolences to Genes Friends and family.
Antonio Jacob Ferrelli Esq.
OneStrangeAngel27@GMail.Com
(Please feel free to contact me if you need someone to talk with Or share photos and memories of our beloved Gene!)