Obituary of Joseph Marcel Deshaies

DESHAIES – Joseph Marcel “Fern” of St Thomas passed away peacefully in the night at Valleyview Home on Saturday, March 18, 2023 at the age of 83.  Beloved father of Lisa Milos Young and husband, Ron, special friend of Dollie Milos and sweetheart to Marion Joly. Loving brother to Irene, Raymond, Denise and Paul.  Predeceased by his parents, Marcel & Evelyn Deshaies, 2nd wife Myna, sisters Claire, Gisele and brothers Bobby and Reale.  The family moved from Rouyn, Quebec to Ontario when he was 13 years old, not speaking a word of English.  He graduated from Loyalist College with a business diploma and went on to a traveling Auditor position which allowed him to see almost every Canadian province and American state.  Upon retirement he lived between Ontario, British Columbia and Florida travelling in his motorhome.  He found his Saviour and had extensive knowledge of the bible.  He spent time with his sister Denise and many long-time friends at Braeside Camp in Paris, Ontario.  He loved music - early country music, French, bluegrass, gospel and rock, with Johnny Cash and Elvis at the top of the list.  He traced his family heritage back to 17th century France, a huge undertaking.  He could fix anything, including dinner with his love of seafood, and his healthy smoothies.  He will be greatly missed by his many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends spread across the globe including Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, Florida, Denmark and Australia.  Many thanks to the extraordinary staff at ValleyView Home for their incredible depth of care and compassion for my dad and myself and all his fellow residents.  Arrangements entrusted to the Shawn Jackson Funeral Home, 31 Elgin Street, St. Thomas (519-631-0570).  Memorial service to follow in May, date to be determined.  If desired, donations to a charity of one’s choice would be appreciated.  Personal condolences to the family can be made at www.sjfh.ca