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Jean-Michel Sylvain
1975 - 2016
Jean-Michel Sylvain
1975 - 2016
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1975
DIED
2016
Jean-Michel Sylvain Obituary
He is survived by his wife, Trilby (Leach) and children, Callia and Kaelan; mother, Guerda Sylvain, Ontario, siblings, Henry Sylvain (Marie-Eve),Quebec; Karine Gousse (Reggie), New Jersey; Vanessa Sylvain (Larry), Ontario, Daphnee Moise (Jeff); Steve Moise, Bobby Moise, Jean-Lou Moise, Florida, mother in-law, Noreen Morrison (Tom), New Glasgow; father in-law, Ed Leach (Mary); brother in-laws Patrick Leach (Francine, Grace & Cecilia); Nathan Leach, Kevin Leach and Zach Kilfoil, Halifax; and many other relatives in Canada, USA and Haiti.
Jean-Michel was predeceased by his father, Stephan Moise, Haiti.
Jean-Michel was born in Haiti and grew up in Montreal. He was recruited to play varsity football with Saint Mary's University in Halifax and graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce. From 1997 to 2001 he was a leader on the football field; awarded All-Canadian and AUS Top Lineman in 2001, and was a Vanier Cup Champion. Football brought Jean-Michel to Nova Scotia, but it was meeting the love of his life, Trilby, that truly made Halifax home, and where they chose to raise their family. He was a dedicated employee for the Finance Department of Community Services.
He was a devoted husband, son, brother, Ton Ton (uncle), teammate, coach and friend, but what he loved most was being a Papa to Callia and Kaelan.
Jean-Michel touched the lives of many people. He had a smile that would light up the room, a generous spirit, was a fierce competitor, and had a kind, gentle presence that would draw people to him. He loved sports, politics and above all, his family.
The past year of his life Jean-Michel was faced with many challenges and regardless of what he faced he continued to stay positive, comfort those around him and keep his great sense of humor. The incredible support the family has received over the past year from family, friends, neighbours, co-workers, SMU football family, and the exceptional health care team has been truly appreciated.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 26th, 2:00-4:00pm and 7:00-9:00pm and the Celebration of Life will be held on Friday May 27th at 11:00am; both at JA Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive Halifax.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
62 Entries
Jamey Piedalue
June 6, 2016
Trilby. I only heard of Jean-Michel's passing today. I send my heart-felt condolences to you, your children, extended family and close friends. He was a kind, gentle giant, whose strength, courage and smile jumped through the phone on the few occasions I called to check-in. So very very sorry.
Andrew Weltz
June 3, 2016
Jean Michel and I were rookies together at SMU. His big smile and bigger heart always used to bring light into the rainiest of Halifax days. My heartfelt condolences go out to his wife and children.
Donna Brown
May 30, 2016
Trilby and family: I am so sorry to hear of Jean Michel's passing, I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences and prayers. I knew Jean Michel from his work with finance on Gottingen St. He was the sweetest man, always had a huge smile on his face that would light up any room. He was always very helpful and sincere. He will be greatly missed here. May God Bless you all.~ Donna
Colleen Clark
May 30, 2016
So sorry to hear about Jean-Michel's passing. I only had the opportunity to meet Jean-Michel in person one time, but through his work with Community Services he was always there on the phone whenever I needed him. His kindness and generosity could be felt even through the phone line. I always enjoyed connecting with him. On behalf of HomeBridge Youth Society, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.
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Susan Allen
May 29, 2016
Dear Trilby and family. We were shocked and heart broken to hear of Jean-Michel's passing. Such a lovely man and loving father. We are thinking of you all. From your Kings Head neighbors, Albert, Susan and Philip.
JoAnne Akerboom
May 28, 2016
Jean-Michel's beautiful smile and gentle, kind nature will be what I remember most. I will also remember him teaching Nathan and Kevin to eat a slice of French toast in one bite. Trilby, my heart goes out to you and Callia and Kaelan. We are having a mass said for Jean-Michel on July 3 when my mom and dad are visiting us in Alberta. They both remember what a wonderful person Jean-Michel was and we all wanted to have a special mass in his memory.
June Julien
May 27, 2016
It is with heartfelt sadness that we acknowledge the loss of Jean-Michel-Family was the most important element in Jean-Michel life...I know that he has left a wonderful legancy for you, Callia and Kaelan, his family and friends. He was a true gentleman and wonderful person that I had the privilege to work with. He always has a smile and a kind word for everyone. He will be greatly missed and forever in our hearts.
Debbie Shadbolt
May 27, 2016
So sorry to hear about Jean-Michel. We both worked at Community Services. When I would visit the 5th floor you could always count on a friendly smile from Jean Michel. He was such a soft spoken and sincere man and one who always loved to talk abut his family. I will miss his beautiful smile and miss his presence here in the MacDonald Building. My thoughts are with his family during this very sad and difficult time.
Vikings de Maisonneuve Editon 1993
Richard Chevrefils
May 26, 2016
Richard Chèvrefils
May 26, 2016
C'est avec une grande tristesse que nous avons appris le décès de Jean-Michel. Nous tenons à vous faire part de nos sincères condoléances et nous vous assurons de notre amitié et notre affection. Coach Vikings de Maisonneuve Edition 1993
May 26, 2016
Trilby and family; Cory and I would like to extend our deepest condolences. Draw strength from your loved ones to get you through this difficult time. His memory will live on in you and your beautiful children. We here at work are thinking of you. Bless you and take care. ~Brenda
Francine Houle
May 26, 2016
Dearest Guerda and family,
Though no words can comfort you for your loss so soon in his young life, be assured of our heartfelt condolences and prayers.
Toute ton équipe est avec toi Guerda en ces moments difficiles. Bon courage.
Sincerely,
Francine Houle, Executive Director
Sisters of Charity of Ottawa
Mother House
May 26, 2016
I was so sorry to hear that Jean-Michel had passed away, I worked with him briefly, he was always smiling and helpful and was so liked by everyone. I can't say enough about this wonderful young man that was taken away too soon. We are all so sad for you and your family and I wish to express my condolences. God Bless you all. Edna Longaphy (Halifax)
May 26, 2016
So sorry to hear of Jean-Michel's passing. Our hearts go out to you -Trilby and your family. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Sincerely, Linda and Bob Smith
May 25, 2016
We were so sorry to learn of the passing of Jean-Michel. He was such a wonderful man and brought joy to all the lives he touched. May all the happy memories bring you peace and help to ease your pain at this difficult time. Zura and Lloyd
Maureen Cyr
May 25, 2016
I had the pleasure of working with Jean Michel at Statistics Canada and treasure his football trader card he autographed for me a true gentleman in every aspect
Erica Cormier
May 25, 2016
It was a pleasure getting to know Jean-Michel and your family and having you as part of the SECDC family. Trilby, Callia and Kaelan I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Anita Smith
May 25, 2016
For all the years I have had the pleasure of knowing and being friends with Jean-Michel, he always had a smile on his face and a chuckle in his hello. I will always think of him running down the SMU turf with a smile on his face. His wonderful presence will be missed.
J Morton
May 25, 2016
I want to extend my deepest condolences from my family to yours. His smile was very contagious and will live on. God bless
Kerry Deagle (DCS)
May 25, 2016
My most sincere condolences on your loss. Jean-Michel was a very special person. He was always very pleasant, smiling and helpful and could be counted on to help resolve any financial question. He will be missed by everyone who ever had the great good fortune to know him.
May 25, 2016
I had the pleasure of knowing Jean Michel through work and I recall the many discussions we had about football and how he always knew so much more than me. He never missed an opportunity to attend the Christmas Santa visits with his children at work. He enjoyed those immensely. A kind and gentle soul and a pleasure to be around someone so positive. He will be sadly missed. My prayers go out to his family at this time of sorrow.
Kenneth Wood, Metro Housing Authority
Pamela Daniels
May 25, 2016
Dear Trilby & Family,
So sorry to hear of Jean-Michel's passing. I didn't work directly with Jean-Michel but spoke to him everyday at lunch time. Jean-Michel always had a huge smile for everyone and loved talking about his children which he loved very much. He was a great person and I'm happy to have known him. The "Gentle Giant" will be missed here on the 5th floor of the MacDonald Building. Sending deepest condolences to you and praying the Lord will give you strength. Love & prayers go out to you and your family. Friend of Jean-Michel's Pam Daniels Housing NS. God Bless
May 25, 2016
Trilby and family
My sincere condolences on your great loss. He will always be in your hearts.
Lorna Khan (Dartmouth)
Andrew Conrad
May 24, 2016
I will say that in 23 years of Coaching, Jean Michel was one of the Nicest, most compassionate athletes I have ever had the privilege to work with. I met him 1997 in his first year and My first Year Coaching with SMU Football and over the next years I know that the Team and everyone he met was a better person....always that Smile...God Bless him, Trilby, Callia, Kaelen and all of their Family....je t'aime, mon ami
Andrew, Lise, Devon and Austin (Conrad's)
Tracey O'Keefe
May 24, 2016
I had the privilege of working with Jean-Michel for a number of years, and I am so very sad to hear of his passing. He was one of a kind, and such a positive man. I remember his belly laughs, his kind smile and his love for his family. His work space was surrounded with family pictures, and Callia and Kaelan's beautiful artwork. Jean-Michel was a true gentle giant and loved by so many. My thoughts and prayers are with the Sylvain family.
Catherine Whiley
May 24, 2016
Sending our deepest condolences to Trilby and family. Jean-Michel was our son's football coach at C.P. Allen High School & then later became an office colleague at Housing NS. Jean-Michel was such an inspiration; a shining star; truly unforgettable!
May 24, 2016
I am so so sorry for your loss. Even tho JM didn't work on the same floor we always would share small talk and a giggle. He was always smiling every time I saw him.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Cathy Williams (Hfx)
Vicki Black
May 24, 2016
My deepest sympathies on your loss. I played basketball on Fridays at noon with "JM" and others from work, and always hoped to be on the same team with him. A great competitor, a great teammate, a wonderful co-worker willing to go the second, third and fourth mile, Jean-Michel was the guy I was always happy to see - so soft spoken and kind (except on the basketball court, which I appreciated).
We will never forget him.
Cheryl Easton
May 24, 2016
I am so sorry to hear about Jean-Michel's passing, although I only worked with him for a short time, he was such an incredible human being, always smiling, always doing things for others, your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Stéphane Dubreuil
May 24, 2016
Cher Jean-Michel,
Je suis désolé que ta vie se termine ainsi abruptement. Je vois sur les photos que tu semblais heureux avec ton épouse et tes enfants. Je savais que la vie aurait été bonne pour toi. Malheureusement, cette vie fut trop courte.
Tu as fait toute une carrière collégiale au football chez nous et cela s'est poursuivi à Saint Mary's.
Tu as non seulement laissé ta marque chez nous mais je suis certain que ton épouse et tes enfants seront inspirés par la bonne personne que tu étais et l'héritage des valeurs que tu leurs aura inculqué.
Merci pour ces années avec nous. Tu as été un pilier comme athlète et un étudiant exemplaire. Une personne fort agréable à côtoyer.
Veille bien sur ta famille et tes proches.
Au revoir Big J #61, Viking 1994-1997
Stéphane Dubreuil
Technicien en loisirs
Collège de Maisonneuve, Mtl., QC.
Philip Mills
May 24, 2016
Trilby, I am so sorry and saddened to learn of your loss of Jean-Michel...you and your family are in my thoughts.
Cassandra Wedlock
May 24, 2016
My sincerest and heartfelt condolences to you Trilby and Kaelen and Callia and the rest of JM's family. I didn't work with JM daily but we chatted regularly, almost everyday. We bonded over football. We debated back and forth over my love for Alabama Crimson Tide and his love for Michigan Wolverines. I'll miss the gentle giant that he was. His quick smile and his easy, soft going manner. I missed him when he was off, it was weird not seeing him every day and you picking him up with the kids. I'm going to miss him. He touched many lives but I'm sure none like he touched yours. I pray that through this difficult time you find comfort in knowing that you remember you are not alone. God bless all of you.
Debbie Corkum
May 24, 2016
Trilby my heart breaks for your loss...I remember meeting Jean-Michel at Xmas when he brought the kids to pick you up...... his love and huge smile was so apparent for his family....I now send my love and support to help you through this horrible time....hugzzzz....
Debbie Corkum
DCTeam
Cindy Hartlen
May 24, 2016
Trilby and Patrick, I am so sad to hear about your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and I send love and support to hold you up during this time. Lean on one another and your family.
Cindy Hartlen (Acadia Family, Barracks) Michael Cummings and Henry Cummings (Day Care Family)
Jim Joyce
May 24, 2016
I was very sorry to learn of Jean-Michel's illness and subsequent passing. I worked with him at Community Services and can identify with the many comments from others that he was someone to whom you are immediately drawn and he was a pleasure to know and to work with. Condolences to the family and to his many, many friends, football players and colleagues.
Tara Ferguson
May 24, 2016
I had the distinct privilege of working with Jean-Michel over the last six years. I'll miss many things about him. Jean-Michel is that rare spirit that comes along and touches the lives of many yet leaves us all the better for knowing him. My heartfelt condolences to Trilby, Callia, Kaelan and Family.
Teresa Leuci
May 23, 2016
The last time I saw Jean-Michel was in high school but I never forgot his smile, his laugh and sweet demeanour. I was glad to reconnect with him through Facebook and see beautiful pictures of his family. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. Remember how much he loves you. He will be looking out for his family from Heaven.
Robyn Blois
May 23, 2016
Trilby, my heart breaks to read about JM's passing. My thoughts are with you and your family during this horrible time.
Jenny Gagnon
May 23, 2016
Jean-Michel was an incredible man-he touched the lives of so many that were fortunate enough to meet him. I am thinking of you Trilby, Callia. Kaelan and all of Jean-Michel's extended family at this so difficult time and in the weeks and months to come. Be strong and know you are loved. Jenny Gagnon (member of your day care family)
Shalini Richards
May 23, 2016
I had the honour of working with Jean Michel for a short time, but upon meeting him for the first time it was very apparent he was a truely remarkable soul and he just exuded joy when he spoke of his children. God bless.
Lynne Lockhart
May 23, 2016
Our sincere condolences to Trilby, Callia, Kaelan and all of Jean-Michel's family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Take care.
Al and Lynne
Jessica Bradstock-Young
May 23, 2016
I only briefly met JM as my manager before he left work but knew instantly we would have hit it off. He seemed like a gentle giant, my heart goes out to his colleagues, friends, family and children. May he rest in peace. I hope the family finds comfort in knowing that he touched so many lives.
Pierre Lefebvre
May 23, 2016
Trilby
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the Family. Jean-Michel was such a great role model for all who came in contact with him. A gentle giant, he will be missed greatly!!!
Pat and Pierre Lefebvre
Chuck Bridges
May 23, 2016
Jean-Michel will remain in my heart and mind as a remarkable young man who provided leadership, friendship and dedication in all he did.
He was a good man and I am thankful I knew him.
Fred Bushor
May 23, 2016
Sorry to hear of the loss of a great community member.
Billy Joyce
May 23, 2016
I worked with Jean Michel for a few years at Le Conseil de développement Économique de la Nouvelle Écosse. He was a true gentle giant and his work ethic was second to none. Not only was he a great co-worker, he was a great man with a heart of gold. He was our Human Resouces guy and to say the least, working with me was an exercise in patience, but he always did it with a smile on his face, I think it was our common love of football that made him go easy on me LOL. We had lost touch since our careers took different paths, but I have nothing but fond memories of this wonderful man. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, children and family and friends. Reste en Paix Mon ami!
Kim Hiscock
May 23, 2016
Trilby,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers at this very sad time. It sounds like Jean-Michel has left a wonderful legacy of love. I hope you have many treasured memories that will bring some comfort in the days to come. "When we lose someone we love their memory becomes a treasure."~ With sincere sympathy , Kim Hiscock~
Colleen Dompierre
May 23, 2016
Trilby,Callia and Kaelan our thoughts and prayers are with you and all your extended family at this most difficult time.
Colleen and Lauren Dompierre
Frank Yakimchuk
May 23, 2016
As a former member of the Saint Mary's Huskie Football Team including the 1973 CIAU Champions', I feel a close connection to Jean-Michel, God Bless, Rest in Peace. Prayers to his wife, children and Family Members.
Jason Wincey
May 23, 2016
A big man with a big heart. Life is precious - hug your loved ones! Prayers for Trilby, Callia, and Kaelan.
Susan MacLeod
May 23, 2016
Trilby and Family,
So very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
(friend of your mother)
Kim Steeves
May 23, 2016
Trilby, I am so sorry to hear of your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your children at this very difficult time.
Bonnita Bowden
May 23, 2016
Trilby & Family , You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Jennifer Brown (Arthur)
May 23, 2016
Trilby & Family, I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of Jean- Michel. Thoughts and prayers going out to you on your most difficult time.
Helen Gerrior
May 23, 2016
Trilby, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult period and the days to come. Helen Gerrior
Maria Caines
May 23, 2016
My most sincere condolences, Trilby. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Julie Glinz
May 23, 2016
Trilby and family, I am so sorry for your lose. I know there are no words that can make the pain go away, but I hope you can find strength and comfort in knowing you are not alone. I know you can agree that everyone who knew Jean-Michel, loved him. He's touched so many lives and will forever be remembered as a true gentleman. He was a great son, brother, husband, father and friend. He's greatly missed and you and the children are in our thoughts and prayers. Stay strong, big hugs ❤
Amy Folkes
May 23, 2016
Trilby and family, my heart is with you during this time. I feel privileged to have witnessed the wonderful love between Jean and Trilby. With both tears and smiles I go back to those beautiful memories and hug them so tight. I pray that the days ahead of reminiscing and celebrating this amazing man will give you all some comfort. xo
Lisa Hollis
May 23, 2016
Trilby, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Jean-Michel. I can't begin to imagine what you and your family are going through during this devastating time. Please know that I have you and your children in my heart and I will say prayers for you all over the upcoming months. Sending you my most sincere condolences from the UK xx
Alyssa, Jon, Lya, Aubree, Debbie & Andrea
May 23, 2016
We are so incredibly sorry for your loss! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this extremely difficult time! Sending our love!
Kevin Corkill
May 22, 2016
Such a difficult time to lose the love of your life, two kids to lose their loving father and so many other family and friends to lose a great friend. Such a sad time, how does time go on when you lose someone who is one of the hearbeats of your life? Hard to imagine but somehow it does. I have paused and thought so much of your family Trilby, Callia and Kaelan and hope you can move on and live on in the memory and large shadow overlooking you that is/was JM.
Lorraine FOlkes
May 22, 2016
Trilby,
I am so sorry to learn of Jean Michel's passing.
If there is anything I can do to be of help or comfort, please do not hesitate to connect with me. May God give you and your children strength as you face the days ahead. Please accept my sincere sympathy.
Lorraine Folkes ( Amy's mother in law.)
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339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax, NS B3S0E1
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