SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — The Late Émilien Nadeau

Honourable senators, I want to take this opportunity to wish our esteemed colleague good health for many years to come so that he may accomplish many things.

Honourable senators, I would like to take a moment to mark the passing of Émilien Nadeau, the former mayor of Dégelis. Mr. Nadeau was a big-hearted man, a visionary pioneer and a citizen who was deeply committed to his community, Témiscouata. He passed away on June 2 at the age of 85, leaving an impressive legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.

In our communities, some people leave their mark through their words, while others do so through their actions. Émilien Nadeau was definitely among the latter. He was a staunch regionalist who served as a municipal councillor for 16 years and as mayor of Dégelis for about 15. He dedicated his energy, intelligence and generosity to the development of his community and all of eastern Quebec.

Having worked closely with him on numerous occasions, I can attest to his approachability, his ease at bringing people together and his strong sense of public service. He spearheaded several major projects: He helped to develop Lake Témiscouata provincial park, chaired the Unité régionale de loisir et de sport du Bas-Saint-Laurent and served for nearly 20 years on the board of directors of ACLAM, a non-profit organization that runs a theatre program for high school students. He also served as co‑chair for the 2014 World Acadian Congress.

Great builders are not only those who leave behind buildings or projects. They are also those who leave a mark on people’s hearts. After his passing, his daughter described him as a generous man who gave selflessly to others and whose dedication was exemplary. Her words aptly sum up the life of a man who chose to serve others rather than himself.

Today, we honour not only the former mayor, but also the family man, the volunteer, the mentor and the engaged citizen. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Colette Roy, and to his three children, Michel, Émilie and Manon. Manon, incidentally, is the assistant deputy minister and chief financial officer at Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada. She, too, works to advance Canada’s interests.

We also extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones, the people of Dégelis and all those who had the privilege of working alongside him. May his life remind us of the importance of public service, community engagement and generosity.