Obituary of Gilbert Germain Longpre
Gilbert grew up in St. Albert, Alberta and was the youngest of four children raised by Lucien and Irene Longpre. He attended the Catholic school system and graduated from St. Albert High School in 1977.
Gilbert had many fond memories of growing up with the many neighbourhood kids on Mount Royal Drive, who always played outside all season no matter the weather. Kick the Can, Red Rover, riding the only bike the family had or sledding at breakneck speeds down the notorious Seven Hills. Gilbert’s fondest memories are of playing hockey on the outdoor rink at the Little White School where he attended grades 1-3.
Hockey would indeed define Gilbert as he matured into adulthood. He played for the hometown St. Albert Saints and the Fort St John Flyers in NE British Columbia. Through his hockey contacts Gilbert made his way to Newfoundland playing for several different teams but is best known for playing for the Corner Brook Royals, a team that he helped win the Alan Cup in 1986. Gilbert fell in love with the people and culture of Newfoundland and lived there for many years. While there he obtained a master’s degree in social work from Wilfred Laurier University in 1994. Gilbert continued to practice in this profession while living in Newfoundland.
Gilbert returned home to St. Albert and eventually resided at Ottewell Manor in Edmonton. While Gilbert suffered health challenges, he remained true to his identity as a gentle, kind, and loving man that everyone whom he crossed paths with spoke fondly of.
Gilbert was predeceased by his parents, Lucien and Irene, and his sister Yvette Bilodeau. He is survived by his daughter Meghan, her husband Gavin, and grandchildren, Liam and Lily of Corner Brook, Newfoundland. Gilbert is also survived by brother Gerald (Francine) and sister Muriel (Dave) along with many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the staff of the Intensive Care Unit at the University of Alberta Hospital for their kind professional care.
At Gilbert’s request there will not be a funeral. Donations of sympathy can be directed to a charity of your choice or the Mental Health Association Edmonton.
