A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, February 9th, 2023 from 7pm - 9pm at G.H. Hogle Funeral Home, 63 Mimico Ave., Etobicoke (www.hogle.ca).
A funeral service will be held on February 11th, 2023 at 1pm, at St. Andrew's United Church (117 Bloor St E, Toronto, ON M4W 1A9). The service can also be live-streamed on Youtube by searching "Celebrating the Life of René Roy".
Rene's obituary (from the Globe and Mail) can be found here: https://www.legacy.com/ca/obituaries/theglobeandmail/name/rene-roy-obituary?id=40423293.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Médecins Sans Frontières (www.msf.org).
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About |
|---|---|
| Name | Rene Philippe Roy |
| Date of Birth | March 14th, 1958 |
| Date of Death | January 28th, 2023 |
| In Memoriam Donation | Médecins Sans Frontières |
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published a tribute .
I had the pleasure of working closely with Rene at St Michaels Hospital while we tried to deliver (and did) the new patient care tower. I noyl found out today of Rene's passing and regret that I could not be there to see him off. Rene was an absolute gentleman and I always felt as though the best interests of the hospital were in good hands with Rene involved. He helped me integrate from my first day at SMH right up until my last. I am just gutted that he is gone but reading all the others note here, I see (and am not surprised) that Rene was a wonderful father and friend. My condolences to all his family and friends and I thankfully will have good memories of Rene.
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published a tribute .
I never had the pleasure to work directly with René on a project, but I did have the opportunity to share an office space with him and with that I had that the ability to share several after work beers, lunch outings, and opportunities to shoot the proverbial “shit” with him.
Also use him as a life line, any time I had been in way over my head, which happened to be a lot. Even though I may have been a burden to bug him all the time he never showed it, and always welcomed me with only the occasional light jeering and a wealth of knowledge, understanding and patience.
I can also say he is the main reason why I bought a bike and continue to bike to and from work. I recall when I first started riding into work I asked him when he put the bike away for the winter, he simply replied “as long as there isn’t snow on the ground im ridin’”. Foolishly I took that as a challenge, saying to myself “if René could do it I surely can as well”
However as the first set of tears froze upon my cheeks riding down yonge street in -20 degree weather It occurred to me, maybe just because René could do something, does not mean everyone can, but quite the opposite.
Throughout getting to know him more, I feel that that is analogous to Rene, he could do so much, so effortlessly with a smile and nonchalance, that not many could.
He will be greatly missed,
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published a tribute .
Rene was a beautiful human, at every Doherty event he would always make us feel so welcome and loved. We wish we lived closer to be with all the family during this sad and tragic time. Love you all
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dear reener,
dad, you really were awesome
you were funny,
and thoughtful,
and handsome
you were compassionate and kind
and someday I hope I will find
a relationship like you had with mum
way back when I was a kid
there was so much that you and I did
from sports teams and soccer drives
to long hikes and bike rides
and all the puzzles that you and I tried
many memories I will not soon get rid
you were always there for me
through school, and my engineering degree
through concussions and heartbreaks
and all of my mistakes
you helped me work out whom I want to be
many tools you taught me how to use,
together, we watched the Leafs lose
I’ll remember the skiing,
Switzerland sightseeing,
and singing to Queen, Elton, and Bruce
there are things we won’t get to do
it's hard to believe, yes, but it’s true
you won’t give me my ring
we won’t go camping
but I’m grateful for the time I had with you
and you won’t ever really be gone
in me, you will always carry on
when I tell a joke that’s dumb
and wear this ring on my thumb
and when I run in my next marathon
and yes, we will take care of buddy
continue to work hard and study
I won’t leave the lights on
I will mow the farm lawn
and forgive Andrew when he bugs me
i knew you were always proud
about that, you were loud
and I’ll do my very best
to make you proud of all I do next
even if you’re no longer around
I love you dad,
pickle
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published a tribute .
First, Rene in a Ramones shirt is perfect: simultaneous a touch of wry humour but also sincerity that he would love. The family, and the world, has lost a wonderful person. Rene was full of insight about the world but yet never cynical; quick with ironic humour but always kind; a truly authentic peson who always left us feeling better after being with him. Above all, I have never met anyone who spoke about his children with more insight, empathy and love than Rene, becuase I think fundamentally, he was them, and they are him. We will miss you Rene. Our deepest condolences to the family.
David Hodgson & Family
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published a tribute .
I’m so sad Rene is no longer part of our world. He was the best kind of mentor. His steady, calm, and kind approach to life and work is what I continue to try and achieve, 17 years after first meeting him. I remember calling him while I was still finishing university and asked him “how do I become you?” - I can see now, the answer is simple. It’s impossible, there is no one else like him and we were all so fortunate to know him. My thoughts are with his family at this tragic time. Love, Kelly
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published a tribute .
Rene giving the world a hug. Sun Peaks again in 2022 with Queens University classmates.
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published a tribute .
Sending my deepest condolences to Rene's family. Like many who have posted here, I also knew Rene through St Mike's. For the past 8 years we spoke and sat in meetings together numerous times a week. His knowledge and professionalism was only bettered by his kindness and sense of humour. He was a great man. I am proud and fortunate to have worked with him.
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published a tribute .
Elizabeth, we are sorry to hear of Rene's passing. You and your family are in our thoughts. Please accept our deepest condolences.
Alex and Heather
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published a tribute .
Another photo of Tim and Rene. Rene is giving Tim a hard time about the San Francisco 49ers playing the Kansas City Chiefs for the Super Bowl (2020). Rene made up a nice Chiefs cheese tray for Tim to enjoy.
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published a tribute .
In the last few years I have been lucky to have a few golf games with Rene and to enjoy a yearly ski trip to Sun Peaks (BC). The usual crowd includes Jan Sucharda, Steve Fleck, Pete Nixon, Tim Smith and myself. I have always said that anytime this group gets together I don’t need any other entertainment. Rene’s comical approach and humor was something I looked forward to anytime. Rene was also a very calm person who was always at peace with his surroundings. He was sometimes quiet and was observing and learning about others from the conversation to which he was listening. Typically he had some wisdom that he would share with you quietly at another time after that conversation that was very helpful. He was so kind hearted.
I met Rene at Queens University in the Civil Engineering program. While at Queens there is probably one spectacular expedition that sticks out. One night as the bars we closing , we decided it would be a great night to head to NYC and Studio 54 a bar and dance club that was famous with celebrities at the time. We would never have been allowed into the place but that wasn’t even considered at the time. Pete Nixon was working that night at the pub we left from and dispite his questioning of the wisdom of the trip we were determined to go. Rene had a Chevy Monte Carlo which he aptly called “Monty” and he volunteered to head the expedition with 5 of us onboard (Rene, Tim Smith, Jan Sucharda, Steve Fleck and myself). Rene felt he was in good enough condition to drive so off we went. The rest of us made up for Rene and certainly couldn’t drive. We had a stumbling block which was crossing the US border and sure enough we were called into the Customs and Immigration offices for a sanity check when the officer asked us what we were doing. We all chimed in “we’re going to Studio 54”.
After half an hour of trying to find a good reason to turn us back to Canada the US officers admitted us to the US and we were off to NYC. We never made it and turned around later that morning only to make it back to Kingston just before lunch. Once the alcohol wore off and the cramped stuffy conditions of Monty was wearing on us we collectively had the wisdom to abort.
It’s funny how as time has passed the five of us have continued to relive the stories associated with that event. We still enjoyed our time together perhaps more than ever. Now with Rene gone the rest of us will appreciate our time together even more. We will celebrate our memories of a dear friend that we loved very much.
Attached are two pictures of Rene and Tim Smith at Sunburst Lodge Sun Peaks BC during a ski trip a few years ago. I love the expressions Rene has as him and Tim share some stories and his expressions are part of what I will remember forever.
My condolences to Liz, Andre and Joanna.
Love Steve
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published a tribute .
Rene was a wonderful teacher and colleague. When I joined the Planning team at St. Mikes I had no construction experience, my projects were a success thanks to the teachings and support of Rene. When we ran into design issues Rene was my "go-to" person. Even if he didn't know the answer, he would volunteer to help me find the solution. This often lead us to field trips around the hospital, poking our heads above the ceilings or combing through mechanical floors. He was always kind, always willing to help solve a problem.
On our lunch breaks Rene and I would often talk about the best spots to hike in Bruce County. His enthusiasm for good view points and hikes in the woods with his dog will be deeply missed.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family and pets. He will be deeply missed.
Zoe
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published a tribute .
So sad to hear this news.
I first met René in high school and in the intervening years was lucky enough to see him on occasion during visits to Toronto. He remained the big hearted, witty intelligent guy I met so many years ago. He will be missed.
My condolences to his family.
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published a tribute .
It is with unbearable sadness to acknowledge René’s passing. René was the perfect friend – equipped with a devilish sense of humour, he was kind, caring and always supportive. A simple quirky look (he owned that department) and quick barb always brought laughter and, in many instances, cause to pause and reflect. René had a unique way of inserting balance into my world.
We met at Queen’s in 2nd year civil engineering – René had just transferred from Laurentian - where we formed a friendship that extended more than 4 decades. Three years of lectures, labs, pub nights and parties (plus one ill-conceived attempted road trip to NYC) weren’t enough as we opted to be roommates in Toronto after graduation. Strange and silly times – always an event and always fun. More recent years involved the annual civil boys ski trip to Sun Peaks (where René would take great pleasure tormenting Tim over his 49ers) and the Hot Stove Lounge chatroom on game nights. I recall missing one game and woke up to +100 texts many of which had nothing to do with the game and more times than not everything to do with family updates. Throughout our time it was crystal clear how much René loved and treasured his family – he was so proud of André, Joanna, and Liz.
René enjoyed life – he embraced the positive side of every situation and every person. We all need a little René in us. I will miss him dearly.
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published a tribute .
My deepest condolences to Rene’s family and friends, I am still in disbelief that he is no longer one message away. I met Rene about 2 years ago during my co-op, and while it usually takes me some time to open up, I found myself confiding in him from the start. His warm presence, his comforting words, and his fatherly advice are something I will carry with me forever. Since my term at St. Michael’s, there have been many instances where I found myself thinking about Rene. What would Rene say? What would Rene do? I’m sure a lot of you who knew Rene would agree with me when I say he always knew just the right things to say. He is someone I look up to and admire immensely, personally and professionally. His kind words of encouragement and belief in me as a young engineer have been pivotal these past couple of years, and I can only hope to continue growing and someday make him proud. May we meet again Rene.
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published a tribute .
Elizabeth, my deepest condolences to you, Andre, Joanna and the rest of the Roy and Doherty family on the passing of Rene.
I’ve always admired the relationship the two of you shared. It is truly tragic that he was taken far too soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.
The other Elizabeth and Steve
published a comment .
Hello Andre. So sorry to read this sad news. My heart and thoughts go out to you and your family. Judging by the wonderful man you are I am sure your father was an exceptional person whom you will miss deeply. I hope that his memory will be a comfort forever.
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published a tribute .
Rene was a truly wonderful friend with a great sense of humour, smiling face and always positive attitude.
We first met muddled through civil engineering together with the rest of the boys at Queen's back in the early 80's which seems so long ago now. When I moved west 30 years ago we briefly lost touch but reconnected during the annual Civil 83 boys Super Bowl ski week at Sun Peaks where his world famous chili and ceasars were always a highlight!
Pow turns on Headwalls, Cruiser and Broadway aren't going to be the same without you my friend.
Liz, Andre & Joanna my sincere condolences to you all.
Rest in Peace Rene
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published a tribute .
I met René more than 40 years ago when he joined the Queen’s civil engineering gang, he and I ended up as housemates. René was then as he has always been, just a really good human. What I recall from those days was Rene’s calmness and patience when it came to academics, he shone as a problem solver. He was a very generous guy. always offering to give rides in his famous car “monte” ( even NYC one night) He taught me how cook a few things and introduced me to coffee.
He didn’t know it but I really leaned on him, he was a real solid influence in my life.
I know he was looking forward to the annual ski trip to BC and so were all the old boys.
It was a privilege knowing René most of my life. I’m super sad he’s gone but I know he’ll live on in so many hearts.
Rest in peace my Friend.
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published a tribute .
Dear Liz, While I only met Rene a few times I remember his warmth, wit and sense of humour. When you spoke of him it was always with such affection and he was clearly a wonderful man, husband, and father. My deepest condolences to you, Joanna, and Andre.
Andrea Ciemiega-Loeb
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published a tribute .
Words alone cannot express the sense of loss myself and my colleagues are feeling right now. Please accept my condolences and those of my entire team who had the pleasure of working with Rene for so many years.
Personally I called him colleague, mentor and friend. Beyond his support at work he always took time to check in with me, ask me about my kids and to talk “soccer dad” talk. He would light up whenever he talked about his kids and all they were accomplishing. He was a very proud dad and it showed.
Rene will be missed terribly by all. Rest in peace my friend.
Sending lots of love and support to the entire Roy family.
published a comment .
I recall when Rene joined St Mikes. He became part of an excellent team that quietly but with a lot of fun proceeded to build the new hospital and many other projects. He was an important part of building something great and the hospital owes him a deep vote of thanks. We are grateful for his many contributions
Jeff Lozon
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published a tribute .
Nous avons appris avec tristesse le décès de notre cousin René. Toutes nos pensées sont avec la grande famille Roy dont nous partageons le chagrin.
Au nom de la famille Santerre de Rimouski, je vous offre nos plus sincères condoléances.
Claude
pour la famille Santerre
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published a tribute .
I have had the pleasure of working on projects with René since the late 80’s. He was a great person to work with as well as a great person to know.
I will miss seeing and talking to him I am very sad as everyone is that he is no longer with us. Rest in piece René our thoughts are with you and your family
at this sad time.
My deepest sympathy
Fred Kane
published a comment .
I was in disbelief to learn of Rene. Every week at least once we'll chat about the progress of work here at St. Mikes. He was a real gem of a person who would take my calls even if he were in a meeting. He was humble and very approachable to work with and my colleagues and I will really miss him. It's would be fitting to say that you don't know who is important to you until you lose them. His presence will be really missed. My deepest sympathy to his family and they're in our thoughts and prayers.
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published a tribute .
I am shocked and saddened by the untimely death of Rene. I have known him for many years, starting from Victoria Wing days, and worked with him on numerous projects, both at St. Michael’s and St. Joseph’s.
He was very knowledgeable on design and construction matters, and was always willing to share his expertise with his characteristic patience. He was very proud of his children. My heartfelt condolences to his immediate family and his colleagues at Unity Health.
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published a tribute .
My prayers and condolences to Rene's family on their painful loss.
I had the privilege and pleasure of working with Rene at St. Michael's and was always impressed with his quiet humor, expertise and dedication to his work.
I would offer the following prayer:
May the songs of Angels welcome you and guide you along your way,
May the smiles of the Martyrs greet your own as darkness turns into day,
Every fear will be undone, pain and death will be no more,
As the songs of the Angels bring you home before the face of God.
He will be sorely missed and long remembered.
May he rest in peace, until we meet again.
John
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published a tribute .
Here’s to you Rene. We clink beer cans, look each other in the eye and share a chuckle over the often funny goings on at another Doherty/Roy family gathering. We share tales of ski trips and camping trips and we talk of hockey and dogs and handyman projects.
Rene was my brother- in - law and my friend. I will remember Rene’s love of family and home, his pride in his work and his positive and generous spirit.
Cheers Rene
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published a tribute .
My deepest sympathies to Renes’ family and his friends and colleagues at St. Mikes. Being the hospital Fire Marshal at St. Mikes from 2012 to 2021 Rene was my go to person in Planning . He was the quintessential engineer/facilitator/ problem solver. There was no part of the hospital , from OR to closet, fire exit to smoke detector , complex controller to light switch that he did not appear to have an input. He had boundless passion and energy and good humour day in and day out. I’m sure he has left a huge gap at St. Mikes so I can only imagine how much he is missed by his family .
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published a tribute .
Elizabeth. So deeply sorry to hear. Thinking of you and your children my friend.
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published a tribute .
My dear friend Elizabeth, I’m so sorry for your loss. Please accept my deepest condolences for you and your family.
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published a tribute .
I am deeply saddened about the news of Rene's sudden passing. I've only known Rene for a few short year as part of Unity Health. I will remember Rene as a gentle and kind colleague who was always willing to help with projects always answering our questions with such patience. While he was helping with our infrastructure challenges, Rene would often cycle to St. Joe's, and always arrived with a warm smile and sparkle in his eye.
My heart goes out to Rene's family and to all of my St. Mike's colleagues.
My deepest condolences,
Heather Wilhelm, Unity Health
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published a tribute .
Words cannot express our shock and extreme sadness after the sudden and tragic loss of dearest Rene. He was a wonderful role model and we will dearly miss his enthusiasm, sense of humour, generosity and love for life. There is an emptiness without him.
We will cherish the many amazing memories. Our thoughts, prayers and endless love go to Elizabeth, Andre and Joanna as well as Rene’s mother Vivi and siblings.
With love Beck, Pat and family.
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published a tribute .
Had the opportunity to work with Rene at St. Michael's Hospital, always helpful, always smiling, always cool and always awesome. No words of sympathy can convey our hearts to you. Please accept our heartfelt condolences.
published a comment .
A friend and a good person.
Taken too soon. Will be missed by all who knew him.
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published a tribute .
Rene was full of love, laughter and light. His humour and kindness and his sweet disposition made people love him. His relationship with Liz will always be my ideal of the perfect, peerless match. I miss him so much already. I send love and sympathy to Liz, Andrew, Jo, Buddy and the Doherty & Roy families for this dreadful loss. xoxo
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published a tribute .
I am so grateful for having had the opportunity to work with René and be able to have called him a friend. He was, without a doubt, one of the most self-less, kindest people I've ever met. When I think of René, I will remember his smile, giddy laugh and the way he spoke so lovingly about his family (He would often makes us jealous of all the mouth-watering meals his daughter used to make for dinner!).
René, you leave behind a wonderful memory and have made such a huge impact on everyone who had the pleasure of meeting you. I will miss you.
Sending lots of love to René's family.
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published a tribute .
I remember meeting Rene on my first day of the job back in March 2021. He was a tall, friendly, always smiling man who made me feel at ease even on my first day. Everyone always said "oh Rene knows about that you should ask him". While we didn't get to work on the same projects, his presence will be enormously missed in our office. One of my fondest memories is laughing at Rene over his severe dislike of shellfish and seafood.
My sincerest condolences to Rene's family. Your family will be in my prayers.
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published a tribute .
René's gentle spirit, kindness, warmth, calm and sense of humour consistently shone through, in every situation, and with everyone. And his pride, love and joy for his family was ever present! I will miss him!
My deepest condolences and prayers to René's family.
Rest well René!
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published a tribute .
Rene in his Sartorial Splendor
The Doherty family is heartbroken following the sudden death of Rene, our sister's/sister-in-law's/aunt's husband and the father of Andre & Jo.
He was such a good man, and taken from us way too soon.
Rene, we will miss you so very much.
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published a tribute .
Sad to learn of Rene’s passing, and want to extend my condolences to his immediate family as well as his extended family at St. Michael’s Hospital where his even keeled manner, construction expertise and kindness made such a big impact. He was especially patient with with me as a young architect sharing his knowledge and expertise as he navigated complex negotiations and quietly ‘got stuff done’. Rene leaves an impressive legacy having contributed to so many built projects. He did it quietly, thoughtfully, respectfully and with uncommon humility…he set the bar high!
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published a tribute .
Nos plus sincères sympathies à Liz, les enfants, Pierre et Eva nos pensées vous accompagnent.
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published a tribute .
René has been the rock of our office for as long as I’ve been at St. Michaels. I started as a co-op student in 2017, and worked on many projects with him. He brought experience, humour, and advice, and put up with my endless questions. Leading up to my graduation, and starting full time, René and I kept in touch, I remember coming back to visit the office and he was showing me pictures of his kitchen renovation! He was even part of my full time interview panel (he always told me the questions were too tough).
As I dealt with new challenges on my projects, I always knew I could count on René. He knew who to talk to, gave me advice of what to do next, and always offered his time to work through it with me. I am so grateful for everything he taught me, and the mentorship he provided as I started my career. I will not take any of that time for granted. Everyone that knew René, loved working with him, and it speaks to his mannerism, personality, and professionalism. We have lost more than a colleague, but a great friend.
My sincerest condolences to his family and friends during this immensely tough time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
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published a tribute .
Nos pensées les plus profondes accompagnent Liz, ses enfants, Éva et Pierre ainsi que leurs conjoint(e) et leurs enfants. Les mots ne peuvent guérir la peine que vous ressentez, mais sachez que notre cousin René sera toujours dans notre cœur. Nous vous aimons très fort et sommes avec vous malgré la grande distance (Rimouski, Québec).
Line, xx
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published a tribute .
Rene was a wonderful person and he will be missed. He was always just so, so happy. My heart goes out to Liz and his children.
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published a tribute .
What a shock to learn of Rene's untimely passing. I worked with Rene on several hospital projects. He was a fantastic problem solver, and an excellent communicator. Always saw the silver lining, and was always so positive. St. Mike's Victoria Wing and St. John's Rehab John and Sally Eaton Ambulatory Care Wing would not have been completed so successfully without his leadership! Condolences to Liz and his beautiful children. Rene will be missed by all who were lucky enough to have had him in their lives. Rest well, my friend.
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published a tribute .
My deepest condolence goes out to the Roy Family. I can’t even imagine what they must be going through in these difficult times. I am still in shock like many of you. He left behind many legacies for us to remember him by at St. Michael’s Hospital with many construction projects and renovations. He had wealth of knowledge and was very generous to share with whom he meets. Words cannot do justice to what a great person he was. I will miss him dearly.
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published a tribute .
We are stunned to hear of Renés passing. We’ve been friends for over 55 years. The pride and love he had for his children and Liz, he spoke of everytime we got together. René was a special guy. I never saw him express anger, he was not one to gossip. He would remain silent instead of bad mouthing anyone. He was happy. Our deepest condolences to Liz, André, and Joanna
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published a tribute .
I remember Rene always smiling. He was a wonderful person and I will miss him immensely. Heartbroken!
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published a tribute .
My heartfelt love and sympathy go out to René’s wife and his beautiful children whom I have ‘known’ since birth and through Rene’s stories and photographs over the years.
He had such pride in his family’s achievements, sharing the joy they gave him as well as the antics of the family cats and dog. Just 12 days ago he was asking me how to germinate seeds, planting times and sent multiple pictures of Joanna’s naughty cat Barney. His last words were ‘I am so looking forward to summer.’
René and I worked side by side for 23 years and have been good friends since 1995. René was my mentor in the early days as I struggled to understand planning and construction. Ever patient, never a sigh of frustration and always there to support, help and advise. His loss to me is huge as I always looked on him as my brother and friend. His early parting from his family and colleagues cannot be measured.
I have loved you as my brother René. Rest easy in the arms of God.
Remembered by Jessica Cunnington & Jack Szymanski
published a comment .
My father and I had the pleasure of working with and more importantly, knowing Rene over many years at St. Mike's. I was devastated to learn of his passing as he was one of the most genuine and warm people I've had the pleasure to know. My sincerest condolences to his family and thank you for sharing him with us for all these years. Rest in Peace old friend.
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When Rene and I spoke last week, he could not wait for our first time on the golf course. We figured the weather would be good enough by April 14th which was exactly 12 weeks away. We then decided to subtract evenings, weekends, holidays, time spent watching the Leafs, time spent out for a beer, and a few other silly things.... Before you knew it somehow, we were golfing in a week. He told me to get my clubs cleaned and ready.
Rene will be missed by anyone who had the pleasure to meet him. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. He has had such a positive impact on so many people's lives. I would not be in the position I am in personally or professionally without his support guidance and friendship.
Josh
(Photo is from golf trip in Mount Pleasant Michigan in May 2017)
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published a comment .
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