With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Clarence Joseph Charbonneau, a truly remarkable man whose life was a testament to kindness, strength, courage, faith and unwavering integrity. He was called home on May 20, 2025, surrounded by love, leaving a legacy that will echo for generations.

Clarence was born on June 17, 1936, in Timberland, Sask. As a youngster he cherished his early years on the farm with his close-knit family, and it was there that his love and respect for the great outdoors began.  The family moved to Leoville when young Clarence’s dad bought the grocery store, mentoring him in the art of running a business that was integral to the community. These lessons guided his life of service with a humble and generous heart. As a young adult he mastered the trade in meat cutting which taught him discipline, precision, and pride in hard work.

On August 15, 1957, he wed the love of his life, Mary Kuzyk. Their marriage was a testament to unwavering commitment, partnership, and deep affection. Together, they built a beautiful life, grounded in faith, and filled with family—3 sons and 2 daughters they lovingly referred to as their “full house”. Clarence supported his family as a butcher, and after a brief stint in Battleford running the Queens Hotel, the proprietor of the family hardware store, the iconic Marshall Wells. His work ethic was matched only by his generosity and his ability to connect with people. Life presented him with many challenges as the years went by, but he always persevered with faith, hope, a smile and a whistle.  He worked tirelessly for his community, always first to volunteer or to give quietly to those in need.  His active involvement in the church and various clubs in Leoville was instrumental in raising funds for important projects such as the arena, hall, curling rink and the Evergreen Health Centre, where he received exceptional care during his final years.

Known for his lively spirit, bright smile and infectious energy, Clarence was the life of the party—and usually, the planner of it. He had a knack for bringing people together; whether it was a community event or a family reunion, he loved to make sure everyone had enough to eat and drink, that there was good music, and that there were enough decks of cards for a Kaizer tournament!

Clarence’s love and respect for nature’s bounty was legendary. Together with Mary, he found great solace and purpose in growing a beautiful, big garden which nourished his family and the community.  His greatest joy was fishing, hunting and navigating the incredible wilderness north of Leoville in all seasons. Sharing this passion with his children and grandchildren made him so happy and was one of the many reasons they all considered him a hero. His wisdom, knowledge and experience were recognized far and wide, and when he was invited to work as a hunting guide, he eagerly accepted. This was a great highlight of his life and the source of many wonderful stories.

Though his absence leaves an emptiness that can never be filled, all who knew him can take solace in the beautiful memories he leaves behind. His legacy lives on in his family, in the people he inspired, in the lives he uplifted and in the love he so generously gave.

Left to celebrate Clarence’s memory are his devoted wife, Mary, his children: Neil, Ken (Peggy), David (Rhonda), Sandy (Richard) Richinski and Tracy (Normand) Lalonde; his grandchildren: Miranda, Carla, Aaron, Joe, Jill, Karey, Nicole (Matt), Jason, Kyle, Alex, Natasha (Michael), Curtis, Jordana and Jaxon; his great-grandchildren: Michaela, Lynaya, Odin, Dayten, Savannah, Jaila, Dominick, Zaira, Leo, Beau, and Max; his great-grandson Silas; his brothers and sister Lionel and Richard Charbonneau and Anita Alsip,

Numerous extended family members and friends.

Clarence was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Aurore (Boucher) Charbonneau, siblings Alida (Al) Halpape, Denis (Noel) Charbonneau and Romeo Charbonneau.

A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, June 7 at St. Therese Roman Catholic Church in Leoville, SK at 11 a.m. followed by lunch and fellowship in the Leoville Community Hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Residents and Family Council c/o Evergreen Health Centre, Leoville, SK.

Family and friends wishing to send online condolences are welcome to visit www.beaulacfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home and Crematorium, R. Mark Muir Funeral Director, Spiritwood, SK (306) 883-3500.

• Date : 2025-05-23
• Location : Leoville, SK