Obituary of John Ronald Paquette

John Ronald Paquette, 77 years of age, passed away peacefully at the Northern Lights Regional Health Centre on Thursday, February 18, 2021 in Fort McMurray, Alberta. He was with loving family at his bedside when God called him home. John was born on November 25, 1943 in the town of Athabasca, Alberta. His parents were Adolphus Paquette and Tena (Konrath) White. John lived in a few places in Alberta during his younger years with his parents and then settled down in Smith, Alberta in 1956 where he met and married Doris (Nadeau) Paquette in 1964. Together they have 3 children, 4 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren. At the age of 17 and while still attending high school in Grade 12, John started on his working journey. Some of his work history includes head sawyer at the Smith Sawmill; railroad labourer where he worked with his brother Sonny; refuse collector in Edmonton in the early ‘60’s; and then later on he worked as a bartender in Smith, Alberta. John valued his past work experiences and spoke fondly of his many roles and positions. In 1974 he started work at Suncor and then he moved his family to Fort McMurray in 1975. John retired from Suncor in 2007 after 33+ years of exceptional service as a Heavy Equipment Operator and trainer. His many commendations from Suncor throughout his work tenure exemplify his outstanding work ethic and dedication as a valued employee. John met his life partner Margaret Whiteknife in Fort McMurray, Alberta in 1982. Together they have a daughter and three grandchildren. John is predeceased by his parents Adolphus Paquette and Tena White; step-father George White; sisters Rosie Berard, Mary Berard, Louise Anhorn, Judy White, Amelia Barore, Jean Martin, Beula Paquette; Brothers Victor, Peter (Chum), and Louis (Cowboy) Paquette, and Peter Martin (Sonny). He leaves behind his life partner Margaret Whiteknife, daughters Cynthia (John) Gessner, Carol (David) Geldart, Robyn Paquette; son Brad (Judy) Paquette and step-sons Chris and Tony Whiteknife; Sisters Shirley Tremblay, June (Jim) Whitford. Grandchildren Josh, Justin, Jordan, Jared Gessner, Keelan and Ajia Paquette, and Roman Memnook; 8 great grandchildren Aiden, Matthew, Eliviah, Ariana, Nessah, Miyah, Lucas, and J.J. Gessner, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends. John is fondly remembered and tremendously missed by his family and extended family. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The family of John Ronald Paquette would like to acknowledge the many family and friends who have sent kind words of compassion and bereavement, prayers, and offers of assistance. We greatly appreciate your thoughtfulness at this time. Thank you. Please note the following: Viewing for John Ronald Paquette Thursday, February 25, 2021: 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. @ Robert Anderson Funeral Home, 115-190 MacAlpine Crescent, Fort McMurray, AB. *Due to Covid-19 Restrictions, the number of people attending the viewing will be limited to 10 at a time. All AHS Covid-19 procedures will apply. Masks and hand sanitizers will be provided. Friday, February 26, 2021: 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. @ St. Paul’s Catholic Church: 480 Signal Road, Fort McMurray, AB. *Due to Covid-19 Restrictions, the number of people attending the viewing will be limited to 20 at a time. All AHS Covid-19 procedures will apply. Masks and hand sanitizers will be provided Funeral Service & Interment Funeral Service: Friday, February 26, 2021: 1:00 p.m. @ St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 480 Signal Road, Fort McMurray, AB. Fr. Marvin Tanquerido officiating. *Due to Covid-19 Restrictions, the number of family attending the funeral service will be limited to 20. All AHS Covid-19 procedures will apply. Masks and hand sanitizers will be provided Interment at Wood Lawn Cemetery, 5068 Real Martin Drive, Fort McMurray, AB. Friday, February 26, 2021 (after funeral service). *All AHS Covid-19 procedures will apply for outside gathering. Masks and hand sanitizers will be provided.