It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Laurie Desautels, who left us peacefully in Dryden on December 23, 2024, at the age of 75. Born in Winnipeg on November 9, 1949, Laurie was a cherished daughter of Ross and Norah Finch, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also predeceased by her beloved brother Grant Finch, her nephew Jason Finch, her sister Sharon Fuerst, close friends Cathy Kereliuk, and Claudette Desautels, along with numerous in-laws who were dear to her.
Laurie’s life was defined by her unwavering love for her family and her deep commitment to her community. She is survived by her devoted husband Norm Desautels, with whom she shared a beautiful life beginning with their marriage in 1967. Their journey together was graced with the blessings of two wonderful children: her daughter Terri Fedorchuk (Barry) and her son Todd Desautels (Laura-Lee). Laurie took immense pride in being a grandmother to her cherished grandchildren, Cody (Aly), Callan (Destiny), and Hudson, who brought joy to her heart. Laurie could be seen at the baseball diamond, hockey arena, basketball, and volleyball court, never missing a sports game of any of her kids, or grandchildren.
Laurie spent her early years in Winnipeg and various northern communities where her dad was the post manager for the Hudson’s Bay Company. Laurie’s roots in the area were planted when her father’s work with Hudson’s Bay brought them to Dinorwic in 1955. They eventually purchased Melander’s Camp on Wabigoon Lake and renamed it Polar Star Lodge. Laurie attended Wabigoon Public School and Dryden High School. Her passion for life was evident in her various pursuits, including her remarkable career which began with driving a school bus for Gamble Bus Lines. This blossomed into buying her own buses and running Desautels Bus Lines until her retirement.
A devout Catholic, Laurie rarely missed a weekly mass, embodying her faith in every aspect of her life. She was an active member of her community and was known for her vibrant personality, huge smile, and love for bringing people together. Her heart warmed at the thought of spending time with friends and family, often playing Bingo or Yahtzee, or participating in the latest craze of line dancing. She was keen on anything that fostered connections and joy among her loved ones. Laurie believed in giving back by volunteering for numerous activities, including church functions, Meals on Wheels, and the hospital tuck shop. She was also a proud member of the Catholic Women’s League.
Laurie’s love for animals was profound and lifelong; she had a special bond with pets throughout her life. From her childhood horses, Bingo and Patches, to her beloved dogs – King, Kelly, Darby, Saku, and her current companion, Myka – she always had a furry friend by her side. She also welcomed a cat named Tangy into her family, demonstrating her nurturing spirit and love for all creatures great and small.
Laurie will be deeply missed by her many close friends, including Inge Desautels, Carol Markham, Linda Priebe, Beth Lundmark, and her cousin Rhonda Filby, who was her best friend and partner in crime from a young age. Special memories and laughter will forever echo in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Laurie Desautels was a woman who epitomized love, compassion, and strength. She touched the lives of many and will forever remain a beloved figure in our hearts. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love of those who have gone before her.
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Michelle Ducasse says
December 24, 2024 at 8:45 pmTerri, Todd and Mr. Des: I’m so very sorry for your loss. I loved your mom and her welcoming ways. I know you will miss her horribly. Please take care of each other during this time, and know we are thinking of you.
Suzanne says
December 24, 2024 at 10:46 pmSo sorry to hear this sending condolences 💐 to Terri and Todd and Norm.. from Judy and Family my mom and Dad really enjoyed knowing your mom and we hear the funny stories about them as kids.. no more pain and will be a beautiful Angel and will probably have many laughs up there with my dad.. He always talk highly of your wife and mother❤️. Sending healing and strengthening prayers for the family❤️🦅
Love Judy Parenteau and family 💐❤️
Barb Lindquist says
December 25, 2024 at 6:31 pmDeepest sympathy to all the family. Thinking of you at this difficult time
Rick and Barb Lindquist
Doris & Joe Bulloc says
December 26, 2024 at 6:47 pmSending our deepest condolences to Norm & family.
You are in our thoughts & prayers❤️🙏
Thinking of all the fun times my sister & I had with Laurie,great memories!❤️
Doris & Joe Bullock says
December 26, 2024 at 6:48 pmSending our deepest condolences to Norm & family.
You are in our thoughts & prayers❤️🙏
Thinking of all the fun times my sister & I had with Laurie,great memories!❤️
Brian C Bates says
December 28, 2024 at 8:35 amNorm condolences to you and your family. First met Lori when she hit High School, feisty then and so fun loving. She had that spark. Many years go by and when we moved back to Dryden she was that same outgoing, smiling and friendly Lori. We know she was battling illness, but you could never tell when you met up with her in a store or on the street. A great lady, I’m sure you, the kids, the grand children will miss that “whirlwind”. She will have her eyes out for you all from up above. Sad news
Brian and Jo Anne Bates
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Laurie can be made out to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, 20 Eglinton Ave. W, 16th Floor, Toronto, ON M4R 1K8 or to a charity of your choice.