It is with breaking hearts we announce the passing of Ernie Vaillancourt at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops March 9, 2021 surrounded by family.
Born June 13, 1939 in Lafond, Alberta to Delphis Vaillancourt and Diane Foisy.
He was predeceased by his parents, Delphis and Diane Vaillancourt, sister Vivian Funk, brother-in-law Jack Funk, father-in-law and mother-in-law Alvin and Hazel Thompson, brother-in-law Ronald Thompson, and nephew Patrick Thompson.
Ernie is survived by his wife Mardell Vaillancourt, son Jason Vaillancourt (Dina McLeod), daughter Jocelyn Hunt (Kevin Markotich), grandchildren Kirstin and Kirysa Hunt, Talon Vaillancourt, Deja McLeod, and great-grandson William Beckett.
Also surviving brothers Aladin Vaillancourt, Emile Vaillancourt (Laurinda), sister Denise Cressy (William), and brother-in-law Kenneth Thompson, as well as numerous nephews; Clifford Cressy (Martha), David Cressy (Jill), Todd Vaillancourt (Linda), Travis Vaillancourt (Annie), and nieces; Cheryl Funk (Phil), Kerri Funk (Trevor), Lori Thomas (Neil), Graham Thompson, Julie Weir, Lindsay Thompson (her son George Thompson), and numerous great-nephews and nieces in BC, Alberta, Sask, and Scotland.
Ernie was a true family man. Loving devoted faithful husband of 53 years. An involved supportive loving father who was so very proud of his children.
His working career was spent in Kamloops as a journeyman lineman with BC Hydro from 1969-1997. An occupation bringing him great satisfaction.
A lengthy retirement contained many health challenges but his determination and joy for life overcame all. His pleasure derived from monthly Power Pioneer luncheon meetings, greeting co-workers and catching up with news was a highlight. He was a social being, making many friends. Long-time friends brought him joy.
At Ernie’s request there will be no formal service, a Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held when gatherings are once more allowed.
Donations to Royal Inland Hospital Foundation Kamloops for Proposed Cardiac Unit gratefully accepted.
A golden heart stopped beating
Hard working hands at rest
It broke our hearts to see you go
God only takes the best
They say memories are golden
Well maybe that is true
But we never wanted memories
We only wanted you
Your life was all about the labour
Your love of family true
You did your best for all of us
We will always remember you
We sat beside your bedside
Our hearts were crushed and sore
We did our duty to the end
Till we could do no more
In tears we watched you sinking
We watched you fade away
And though our hearts were breaking
We knew you could not stay
Our lips cannot speak how we loved you
Our hearts cannot tell what to say
But God only knows how we miss you
In our homes that are lonely today
Arrangements entrusted to
Kamloops Funeral Home
250-554-2577
Condolences may be sent to the family from
6 Tributes
Our condolences to you Mardie and your family. We remember Ernie as a fun character and Dave has a lot of memories and stories of working with him. Our thoughts are with you at this time. Dave and Eleanor
My sincere condolences to your family on the loss
of your husband and father. He was always ready to lend a tool and some assistance.
Maxine Albertson
Mardie we are so very sorry to hear of Ernie’s passing,Lots of Love and prayers and Hugs to you ❤ and the family ❤
Jocelyn,
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad. May the memories you have all shared over the years bring you comfort. Our thoughts and prayers are will you and your family. Hugs to your Mom and the girls.
Mardie and family, we are very sorry to hear of your loss. We will always remember Ernie’s laughter and funny tales. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family and may you comfort in your memories.
I have many fond memories of working with “Uncle Ernie”. Hard working and a pleasure to work with. We spent a lot of time as pole partners on the old K11 crew. Never shy about getting his hands dirty.
To Mardie, Jason, Jocelyn & families, my Deepest Sympathy in the loss of a Dear Loved One.