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89 Entries
Beth Harrington
May 7, 2009
This news has reached me late here in North Carolina as I offer my condolences to Mr. Meilleur's family. I first met him at my grandmother's wake (Christina Gagnon, married to the late Clifford Gagnon). He came for every session on each day and was welcomed in as our family said our last goodbyes. He meant so much to my family and his business is a legendary location in the stories my aunts and uncles, and parents tell. He warmed my heart with his generosity and kindness as I experienced the death of my grandmother and he offered continuously to treat me in his business which meant a lot. I feel honoured to have met the legendary Fred Meilleur and I will continue to pass down our family’s crazy stories that took place in his business that have been passed down to me. Again, I have his family in my thoughts and prayers as I offer condolences and my sorrow to hear of this great man’s death.
Raymond Murphy
February 13, 2009
Dear Meilleur Family,
Word of Fred's passing has made it down to us in Florida and we join in your sorrow and pass on our heartfelt sympathy. No trip back to Chapeau was complete without a steak dinner at Fred's and all of the great conversation that would carry on with the boss himself. We were always so warmly welcomed and for that we will always be grateful. My parents, Annetta McDonald Murphy and John Murphy shared many nice Fred stories last night and wish to pass on their best to you all. Over the years here I have spoken with many people who had the pleasure of spending time with Fred in Chapeau so you see he was known very well on both sides of our border. God Bless you all.
Ray Murphy
Carol Clouthier/ Brzeski
February 10, 2009
Warmest regards to the Meilleur family. Fred was definitely an icon and will be missed by thousands. He was the friendliest man I have ever met in my entire life. I met him when I was 15 and as he said .looked old enough to be in his bar........lol. I am now 58 and I remember that day as though it was yesterday! He was always our dad away from home. Rest in peace dear Fred and enjoy having your wife by your side again. You have left us all a legacy we shall never forget. Carol (Clouthier) Brzeski Carstairs,Alberta
Cheryl McGee
February 10, 2009
The Meilleur Family :
My condolences to you at this sad time. I shall always have fond memories of Fred, The Family & many nice times in Chapeau.
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Roxanne Landon
February 7, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to the Meilleur family! Your dad, brother and grandfather holds a special place in all our hearts. He will be remebered for his jolly laugh, his stories but most of all how he never forgot anyone who crossed his path. His memory will be past on to generations that come.
Until we meet again,
Roxanne and Dean Landon
Mary and Doug Cormier
February 7, 2009
The fact that most referred to him as 'Uncle Fred' speaks volumes of the man that Mr Meilleur was. He embraced everyone with a warmth as if they were family.
We came to know Uncle Fred through Gail and all the Gavan family and Norma (Weston)
We were often regaled with stories of his hotel, hospitality and fabulous food and the close bond of family amongst the Gavans and Meilleur families.. We only met Fred a few times but were left with a lasting impression of his warmth, humour, generosity, values and that he was a true gentleman.
We know that the Meilleur and Gavan families will carry on his legacy with pride.
It was a privilege to have met him.
with deepest sympathy to the Meilleur and Gavan families
Mary and Doug Cormier
Ottawa, ON
Barb Houlahan
February 7, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to Eunice,Gail and Conor,our prayers and thoughts are with you.We would have loved to have been there for you.This is a terrible loss for all.Barb and Peter Houlahan
Barbara Schultz
February 7, 2009
We are so sorry to hear of Fred's passing. We remember him with fondness and deep respect. He would visit every table and get to know a little about his customers. Who can forget being invited to see the 'silver beaver'! Every time we took a new diner to Fred's we enjoyed watching them have the tour as well. Fred was a most gracious host, with a warm heart, a generous spirit, and a tremendous sense of humour. It was a privilege to have met Fred. We extend our deepest condolences to his family.
Barb and Earl Schultz
Jan & Judy Gribbon-Kaminski
February 7, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Meilleur Family at this difficult time. He was a GReat Man and the Memories will live on!
Our deepest sympathy to the Family.
Lynn Spraggs
February 6, 2009
My thoughts are with you. Fred's was always part of our trips to Chapeau, and so much fun. We miss it....
Friends from Osgoode
Allan and Mary-Kate Duff
February 6, 2009
Anne, Peter, Judy, Kathy and Debbie
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you and your families. Fred will be greatly missed by everyone. We have alot of good memories.
Amy Stewart
February 6, 2009
To Fred's Family,
I'm very sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathy is sent you all. Fred was such a memorable person and I will never forget him. My favourite place to go on my birthday was always to Fred's! He always took the time to come and say hi. I'll never forget the time we spent with Gail Gavan and Fred at the restaurant.
With deepest sympathy,
Amy, Darryl, Dustin, Dylan and Skylie
(Revel Stewart's Family!)
Orvella Nadeau Remi Fortin
February 6, 2009
Our deepest sympaty to the family
Basil W. Grace
February 6, 2009
Am truly sorry to hear of the passing of Fred.
Without a doubt one of the most generous and caring men that I came to know and consider myself very fortunate to have had him
as a friend.
Spent many hours listening to the
stories and enjoying the entertainment continuously provided,stories(Fred) add the
entertainment,by the multitude
of talented(and not so talented)
patrons willing to fiddle,step and
sing only needing the offer of another beer now and then for
them to continue into the wee
hours---.
I was born in Chapeau across the
street from the Hotel.In the mid
1930's the building was a BMO bank and my father( Hugh-Lilian Grace)was the manager.
We send our sincerest condolences
to the Meilleur family from your
once neighbors.
Marilyn Grace(Anderson) Almonte ON, Basil Grace, Ottawa ON, Byron Grace,Ashton ON,
Maureen Grace(MacIntosh) Pettawa,ON
Katharine Hayes Summerfield
February 6, 2009
Favourite childhood memories include Dad taking our family to Fred's for a special dinner. Fred told us stories, and the steaks, home made bread, fresh garden vegetables, and pies -memories that make you smile! Thanks Fred. You were one in a million!
Our sympathies to the whole family. There must be a great party going on in Heaven today!
Reno and Anna Gleason
February 6, 2009
To The Meilleur Family,
esp. Anne, Peter, Judy, Kathy and Debbie. I would like to send you my sincere condolences on the passing of you father... A true Canadian Legend. I travel throughout Canada extensively with work and am always amazed that when I do flights from Ottawa or Toronto and pretty much anywhere in Eastern Canada, I can always have a chat with someone that has a story to tell about Fred or his steaks. Just the other day I was flying from Saint John's to Vancouver and had a couple on that I chatted with about your dad and the hotel. The gentleman wrote on a napkin.."Had my fist drink at Fred's on July 19th 1959, I was 19 years old". and he gave it to me, I still have it. I have my own fond memories of time spent with you all, and looking forward to many more heart warming stories from folks that had their hearts touched By our own Canadian Legend, Fred Meilleur!
I am sorry I am unable to attend any your dad's services as I now live in Texas and am currently at work on a layover.
My love and thoughts go out to you all,
Sincerely,
Reno RJ Gleason
Julie Rantz-Malette
February 6, 2009
I am very sad to hear of Fred's passing. I remember Fred when I was very young as my dad often played music at the hotel. Fred would look after me while my dad was playing in the band and I was treated to the best ever ice cream and entertained with all his coin tricks.
God speed Fred, I will miss you.
Allan,Keith,Manndy and Claire McGuire
February 6, 2009
Truely sorry to hear of the passing of Fred,he will be greatly missed.Kepting all of U in our prayers.
Sheri Waldroff
February 6, 2009
Peter and Family,
Our thoughts are with you at this time. Keep his spirit alive in Chapeau and your hearts.
From Family friend of Meilleurs',
Gord, Sheri(nee Waldroff) and Ian Fairbairn- Morrisburg.
Monique Desjardins
February 6, 2009
My sympaties to the family. He was such a fine man, with a memory like I've never seen before. He will sadly be missed by the people of the Pontiac.
Cal and Irene Cummings
February 6, 2009
We are deeply saddened to hear of Fred's passing. He was a great friend to everyone and will be long remebered.
February 6, 2009
Fred was an inspiration to all who had the pleasure of knowing him or even just getting the opportunity to meet him one time. Having had the opportunuity to dine out with Fred, you certainly didn't leave the table wanting for a thing. He will live on in the hearts of so many!
Terry, Ann-Marie, Gavan & Shane Boyd
Robert Bertrand, Former M.P. for Pontiac
February 6, 2009
Our heartfelt condolences to the Meilleur family.
Whenever we had out-of-town guests, taking them to Fred's for a steak was at the top of our agenda.We loved his stories & our political discussions.
Fred was an extraordinary man & will be missed by everyone who knew him.May the love of family & friends carry you through your grief.
Bob & Sandy Bertrand
Gerald and Carmel Tallon
February 6, 2009
To the Meilleur Family.
Please accept our deepest sympathy at the loss of your Father,Grandfather and Friend.Fred was indeed a legend in his time.He was highly respected and enjoyed by people far and wide in many walks of life.Long will He be remembered
Dorothy and Jerry Tallon/ Soltys
February 5, 2009
To the Meilleur Family:
Please accept our sincere sympthay.
What a remarkable man- a legend in
his time. We truly enjoyed knowing
him
Ron and Nancy Vellenga
February 5, 2009
Our lives are richer because of you Fred. Our deepest sympathy to the family. We will cherish the beautiful memories we have; our young children feeding the cat inside your hotel with milk creamers you gave them to make them feel welcome, Ron visiting you tied up in a bath tub thanks to the Sheenboro guys, and Rollie allowing me to wear his change belt and serve! I will never forget messing up an order and Debbie making me drink it on the spot! Fred was special no wonder there was a drink named after him.
Joe Roney
February 5, 2009
For many, many years our family, the Roney's of Aylmer, have enjoyed Fred and his family at the hotel in Chapeau and Fort William. There are many memories....my wife Peggy and I were going to Florida about 21 years ago, however, our trip was held up as our first grandchild was on the way. Jason was born on Feb. 2nd and we left a few weeks later. After all those years, everytime Fred would see Jason, he would say "you're the kid that held up your grandparents trip to Florida". What a memory!
May the good Lord keep you and hold on to those steaks until we all meet again.
Joe, Peggy Roney and family
Geri Sheedy
February 5, 2009
We are so sorry for your loss. Your father was a great man who was loved by all who knew him. He was a generous, friendly and gracious man. I will never forget him.
Michael & Shelley Sheedy
February 5, 2009
Our deepest sympathies to Fred's family and most especially, thanks so much for sharing your father with all of us.
A very fine gentleman who treated everyone with respect. I can't help but think the world is a little poorer place today with the loss of such a fantastic person.
Our thoughts & prayers are with all of you.
Doug Ware
February 5, 2009
It was such as shame when the hotel burned down but then it was never the quite the same after Fred retired either. His amazing memory for peoples names, his hospitality and physical presence was well known not only to the Petawawa soldiers but also across the Canadian Forces as well.
Susan Ellis
February 5, 2009
A gentleman always, Fred was one of those unique people who help to define a place in time. We have many lovely memories and we will treasure them...knowing Fred was an honour.
Gilles Martin
February 5, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to the meilleur family . It was quite an experience living next door to the meilleur family where we seen history in the making. For celebrating ST Patricks day new years eve and many more. People came from afar to celebrate and enjoy the humor of Fred 's place it put Chapeau on the map., He was always there to help a stranger in need and give them food, money or a place to stay.
Gilles & Brenda Martin
Pembroke On
Mike & Helen Bellamy
February 5, 2009
Our deepest condolences to the Meilleur Family. We will miss you Fred.
Rita Leahey
February 5, 2009
Although I knew of Fred's failing health, news of his death still came as a shock. As a long-tme resident of Pembroke and with relatives and friends in Chapeau I was quite familiar with his beloved reputation and benevolence. Indeed, this can be noted as the end of an era.
Farewell Fred
John Freeman
February 5, 2009
To all the family, we are so sorry for your loss and our thoughts are with you.
We have great memories of the times we visited Fred's...
John Freeman [Carol Doran] and Susan Ellis
Stay Strong
Dave Morton
February 5, 2009
With the passing of Fred and the loss of the hotel last year an era has passed into history. Many a young soldier from Petawawa had their first beer at "Freddie's" and the man and the location were legend within the Army. Bravo Zulu, Fred.
Ada & Marc Gribbon-Godin
February 5, 2009
In loving memory of a wonderful person who was known far & wide.
WE will cherish all the Wonderful Memories.
Our Deepest Sympathy to the Family.
JOE RONEY
February 5, 2009
tRULY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS fRED WILL BE SADLY MISSED.
by all the Roney family
Amanda Keogh
February 5, 2009
Our Sincerest Simpathies to the Family. Just as Fred never forgot anyone, all who have known him will never forget him. He will be well remembered. The Keogh & MacKenzie clans
Alvin and Debbie Johnston
February 5, 2009
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Tammy Morris-Heissler
February 5, 2009
To the Meilleur Family,
Fred will be missed very much! Our condolence goes to Fred's family. I had so many great memories there growing up. We also had our Wedding dinner at Fred's back in 96, My Grandfather Leanord Marchildon played the Fiddle often at Fred's. Chapeau will not be the same without Fred and his wonderful Hotel! Your in heaven now with Helen, Rollie and Marc. Your sadly missed by all.
Dana Edgar
February 5, 2009
So sorry for your loss.
Great times had by all the "Osgoode crowd" at Freds bar!
Marie Higgins
February 5, 2009
To the Meilleur family,
So sorry for your loss. I have many memories of the wonderful evenings at Fred's. Thinking of you at this time. God bless.
Marie Higgins (late Bob - OPP)
George Pearson
February 5, 2009
One of a kind,he will be sorely missed,my sympathies to the family.May he rest in peace. The meals just got better in Heaven.
Peggy Sunstrum
February 5, 2009
Lots of fond memories, lots of fun always at Freds. Our sympathy to the Meilleur family, may your memories help you through this difficult time. Fred was well loved.
Jim & Peggy Sunstrum
Napanee ON
Joan Bertrand
February 5, 2009
My deepest sympathy to the family.
My souvenirs will be cherished forever of many great meals in Chapeau.
Kathy McCullough
February 5, 2009
RIP Fred. Thanks for the good times and the great memories.
Fay & Mike LeRoy
February 5, 2009
To the Meilleur family,
Please accept our sincere condolences and deepest sympathy on the loss of your beloved patriarch and valley legend.
Doris & Howard McLean
February 5, 2009
Music, when soft voices die
Music, when soft voices die,
Vibrates in the memory—
Odours, when sweet violets sicken,
Live within the sense they quicken.
Rose leaves, when the rose is dead,
Are heaped for the beloved's bed;
And so thy thoughts, when thou art gone,
Love itself shall slumber on.
By Percy Bysshe Shelley
The Poetry Foundation
Morgan Perrault
February 5, 2009
My sympathy to the Sullivan family on the loss of your father and grand-father.
Gerry,Cindy,Joshua Hearty
February 5, 2009
Our condolence to the Meilleur family.We had alot of good times and great memories.We will always remember Fred.
Chantale Raymond
February 5, 2009
I will never forget all the Sundays mom cut his hair and he gave us pepsi and chips and let us pretend we worked at the bar, picking bottles for money dreaming one day of drinking the bar..and then becoming of age and drinking at Fred's. I was so lucky to get to see Fred one last time on the 26th of December and his memory was spot on he never forgets anything. He will be sadly missed and my thoughts are with his family. He will never be forgotten.
chris hayes
February 4, 2009
Ann,Peter,Judy,Cathy,Debbie..Our sincere condolences....And now two really nice people are together again...sincerely Chris and JoAnn Hayes
Ida-Mae Tracey
February 4, 2009
Dear Meilleur Family:
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you peace and comfort.
Fred: When at Gavan's this year to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, I'll miss your smile, your laughter, our hug & our chat about family and days gone by. I know you'll be there in spirit. It will be a magical day with you watching over us.
Gerry .Cindy.Joshua Hearty
February 4, 2009
Our condolences to the Meilleur family.We had alot of good times and great memories .We will always remember Fred.
Mr. & Mrs. Conrad Raymond
February 4, 2009
Their is one thing I can say about Fred, he sure lived up to his name,
F for friendly
R for respected
E for energized
D for dedicated to his family and whom ever had the pleasure to walk in his path!!!
We will miss you my good friend/father
Doug and Viv Rabb
February 4, 2009
Our condolences are extended to the family respecting Fred's passing. He was a great friend of the Rabb family. Over the years we all were greatly entertained by his subtle humour and vast knowledge of the people from the Pontiac. I often think of the hotel's fresh bread and steak aroma, the friendly banter and this tall wine sommelier advising me in his professorial tone as to the wine's merits. St Peter you will be well served.
Shirley (Walker) Lafontaine
February 4, 2009
Dear Fred:
You were a true gentleman; I consider myself honoured to have known you.
Thanks for the good times and great memories.
My condolences to your loved ones.
Kathy Kelly
February 4, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and we enjoyed meeting Fred and spending time with him on our visits to Chapeau and Sheenboro.
We will miss you Fred.
Love Kieran & Kathy Kelly
Elmira Ontario
Carol Sheppard
February 4, 2009
To the Meilleur Family,
As a relative newcomer to the Chichester community, I met Fred only 8 years ago. Although we only had a few brief conversations, Fred always had a smile for my family and I. I will miss seeing his beautiful face at Conroys and at church. It is truly an honour just to have known him. My heart and prayers go out to you all. God has another true angel among Him.
Gail Gavan
February 4, 2009
I will always love you, Uncle Fred!
You have touched my life and the lives of others in so many ways!
Sherry Daley & Steve Guertin
February 4, 2009
My deepest sympathies to the Meilleur family. Fred was an amazing man who's love for people and music was inspiring. His friendly smile was always so refreshing and he never forgot a face - no matter how long it had been. His kindness and "joie de vive" will fondly be missed. He is now at peace in the kingdom of the lord and will look out for all of those that have touched his heart. RIP Fred!
Edward Lee
February 4, 2009
Chapeau will never be the same..There will never be another Fred with his talent of rembering all who crossed his path.
May he now rest in peace with his God.
May God be with those who mourn his passing.
Fred & Marion Schindel
February 4, 2009
Our condolences and prayers to the family. It was a real privilege to have known Fred, we enjoyed his hospitality, each and everytime we dined at the hotel in Chapeau. The Silver Beaver Tour was such a special laugh, what a story teller supreme. He will be missed as he was a Icon for the town of Chapeau.
Ken Scott
February 4, 2009
Tammy and family
Please accept our sincere condolences on the loss of your grandfather.
Joan and Ken Scott
SHARON THIBODEAU
February 4, 2009
OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO ALL THE FAMILY FROM VAL GAGNON AND SHARON THIBODEAU AND FAMILIES
Melanie Paquette
February 4, 2009
My deepest sympathies to the entire Meilleur family. Fred was always an amazing presence when he came over to your table to talk. And he made a point to always make you feel like you were the singal most important person in the bar/restaurant. A well loved and respected man by all. He will be missed.
Melanie Paquette & family
Darlene Morris
February 4, 2009
The Meilleur Family,
Truly a Legend in the Pontiac and beyond. I consider myself very fortunate to have shared many conversations and stories with Fred. He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Lee & Debbie Belanger
February 4, 2009
To the Meilleur, Sad to hear the passing of a good friend and great man. His kindness and generosity will not be forgotten.
Claire Mcguire
February 4, 2009
Sorry to hear aboutFred passing. He was always friendly and a very nice person. All of U will have lovely menories of him. kepting all of u in prayers.
Lawrence Duff
February 4, 2009
To Anne, Peter, Judy, Kathy and Debbie
Please accept my sincerest condolences. For all of us who "grew up" at Fred's this is truly the end of an era. He is now with Helen, Rollie, Marc, Mom & Dad, Dot and Andy and a host of others.
He is in our hearts and in our prayers.
Elaine Murphy
February 4, 2009
Anne, Peter, Judy, Kathy, Debbie, Sister Marie and families;
Our thoughts & prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. May all the happy memories you have of your Dad, and brother help you over the saddness you feeling at this time.
He will be greatly missed by all. His friendly smile and great stories always put a smile on our faces.
Love, Kathleen Kennedy, Elaine & Ron Murphy
Michel Baillot
February 4, 2009
Chere Sr. Marie Meilleur and to your family. My deepest sympathies for your loss. Your brother and your family will be remembered in my prayers at mass this week. I am certain our Good Lord will receive him joyously in His arms. May God be with all of you, comforting you during these times.
Hilary Elliott
February 4, 2009
My deepest sympathies to the Meilleur family, Fred definetly made the community a better place throughout the years. His life will live on with all the memories everyone has to share, truly what a great man!
Johanna Mathieu
February 4, 2009
My sincerest sympathy to the Meilleur family but especially Anne, Sister Marie and Eunice Meilleur. May the Lord strengthen you during this difficult time.
Norman Davis
February 4, 2009
Very sorry to hear the sad news He was a man among men
Doreen Desjardins
February 4, 2009
Thank you for your hospitality and your warmth, we will remember you always...
Jacques Letendre and Doreen Desjardins
Jim Demers
February 4, 2009
Our condolences to the family. He will be greatly missed. It was a real honor to have known Fred. He will always be in our thoughts.
Jim Demers and Michele Seguin
Bernice & Chuck Benson
February 4, 2009
To all members of the Meilleur Family:
Please accept our heartfelt sympathy at this sad time in your lives.
Fred was a very 'special' person to those of us who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him over the years.
He also ran a very 'special' establishment, where our family enjoyed marvellous food, drink & laughter with Fred, the most congenial host we have ever encountered.
His passing will leave a vacant place in many lives.
Sincerely & with regret,
Janey & Terry MacDougall
February 4, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of "Fred"--he was certainly a legend in his own time! I can remember many years ago, we were at Fred's and he recounted this tall tale about the now almost extinct "Silver Beaver"--he wound the tale as he led us to the back of the cooler where he then produced a nickel with the legendary "Silver Beaver" on it---he had a way of making even the most simple things larger than life! He will live on in the hearts and minds of those throughout the Ottawa Valley.
Barry and Donna Proulx
February 4, 2009
The Meilleur Family
Your father will leave a lasting memory with so many individuals. Fred's brought joy to so many and will not be forgotten.
Ann you are remember for your caring attention to your family and we wish you strength to continue.
With Sincere Sympathy
Faye Sullivan-Stafford & Lawrence Stafford
February 4, 2009
A most loved and respected man ...a legend. He will be sadly missed by everyone. He touched so many lives in so many different ways. Our deepest sympathy to all his family and relatives and a specially to Anne whom we knew better than the rest of the family. Mr. Meilleur's kindness, love of "The Pontiac", and his stories will live forever in the hearts of all who met him.
Ian and Margo McIntyre
February 4, 2009
How sad. The end of an era. Fred, always the perfect host. Enjoyed going there for almost 40 years. Gone but not forgotten. Our sympathy to his family.
Ray & Marlene Kilbride
February 4, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to the family.
Gordon McAlpine
February 4, 2009
Heaven's hospitality has now improved
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