Lucille Bridgewater

Lucille Bridgewater

(née Leblanc)

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Lucille Bridgewater (née Leblanc) on November 2, 2024 at the Foyer Notre-Dame at the age of 95 years.

She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved children, Raymond (Elaine), Norbert (Donna), Solange (George), Gilberte, Robert (Laurie), Lucie (Robert), Marcel, Eva (James), Gilles, Gerald (Patricia), and Edgar (Judy). She also leaves to mourn 32 grandchildren, 65 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great grandchildren.

Mom is predeceased by her parents Raymond and Marie Louise Leblanc; her siblings Lionel, René and Gabriel Leblanc; her first husband Gilbert Desrochers; her second husband James Bridgewater; her daughter Murielle; sons Rhéal and Roger; daughter-in-law Katherine and great-great grandson Spencer as well as many in-laws.

Mom was born and raised in St. Léon, Manitoba. She married Gilbert Desrochers in 1944 and lived in Somerset, Manitoba where they had 14 children who kept her very busy. As the children moved away to start their own lives, so did she. Her journey took her from rural Manitoba to Winnipeg then Yorkton, Saskatchewan where she met James Bridgewater. They married and led a full life. They enjoyed going dancing, taking bus tours and playing cribbage. She then moved back to Manitoba to finish the last chapter of her journey.

We have so many funny stories and great memories we could share about Mom that would fill a book. The grandchildren and great grandchildren have fond memories of their Mémère too. Especially when they invited their 89-year-old Mémère to attend a reunion. Mémère was gifted a t-shirt that said “It’s all my fault” which she proudly wore. Special moments and memories were shared by all during that weekend. What an incredible gift from an extraordinary woman. Her family meant the world to her, and she cherished each and every one of them. She loved us all equally, but differently.

Mom, we want you to know that in our hearts your children could not have had a better mother to raise us. We thank God for your love and sacrifices. It has been a long journey for you, and we often felt your pain, but you never complained. We remember the prayer you asked Mary, our heavenly Mother to wrap her beautiful blue coat around us. That thought has stayed with us ever since. Each one of us is forever grateful for your patience, strength and loving care. We thank you for the extraordinary role model you were. You often said, “by the grace of God”.

Rest in peace Mom, God has called you home where you will watch over us. Though you are gone, the love you gave us remains, a beautiful reminder of your presence in our lives.

“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in our hearts.” – Gandhi

The family would like to thank all those who have reached out, offered their support, prayers, and thoughtful gestures as we deal with the loss of our mother. We would also like to thank the staff at the Foyer Notre-Dame for your care and compassion during our mother’s stay and in her final days on earth. It means the world to us to know that she was loved by so many.

A Private Funeral Service will be held at Adam’s Funeral Home with interment to take place at a later date in Yorkton, Saskatchewan.  Everyone is welcome to view the live-stream on Friday, November 8, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the charity of your choice.

Adam’s Funeral Home of Notre Dame de Lourdes, Manitoba in care of arrangements.  Phone 204-248-2201.  To view the service details and leave condolences, please visit www.afh.ca