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Marcel Devigne

Image by Nick Andréka

MARCEL ARTHUR
JOSEPH DEVIGNE

August 18, 1961 – January 27, 2022

Marcel Arthur Joseph Devigne passed on January 27, 2022 after a short battle with cancer that robbed him of planned summers with grandchildren and time in his workshop. His final days were spent surrounded by family at his home in Ste. Rita, Manitoba.

 

Marcel was born August 18, 1961, in Altona, Manitoba, to Arthur and Fernande Devigne of St. Joseph, Manitoba, the third of 5 children.

  

Marcel took on many jobs to support his family, including farm work, selling vacuums, welding, and dropping newspaper bundles. He also worked maintenance at St. John’s Ravenscourt School and as an Auxiliary Constable for the RCMP before settling into a 28-year career with Winnipeg Transit. He started as a Bus Operator then moved into the role of Street Inspector. Passengers and drivers alike knew him for his quick wit and steadfast friendship. He was also known for his dependability and courage in difficult situations and problem-solving skills. Many of his colleagues considered him a coach and mentor before retiring as the most senior Street Inspector in August 2021.

Marcel was an avid outdoorsman and spent much of his free time hunting, fishing, and trapping in all seasons throughout Manitoba. He took great pleasure in sharing his love of the outdoors with friends and family, especially his grandchildren. Marcel was a creative fabricator and spent many hours in the workshop he built himself, welding and woodworking. As a “jack of all trades” he was quick to lend a helping hand when it came to home repairs and renovations. Despite being talented at so many things, most will remember him for his famous pig roasts and fish fries.

Marcel is survived by his devoted wife of 39 years, Kathryn; son, David (Colleen); daughter, Kimberly (Sean); grandchildren, Brooke, Wyatt, Madeline, Leah, and Hazel; siblings, Claude (Paulette); Robert (Paula); Darlene, and Henri.

 

Marcel’s family kindly requests that his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by watching the photo-biography above. Please, also consider sharing your own photos and/or sharing your own memories and stories using the comment section on this page.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, July 29, 2022 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm at 603 Wellington Crescent (Unitarian Church) at Academy Road. 

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Jeff Parsons

July 1, 2022 at 8:06 AM

Marcel was a great family man, outdoorsman, and an all around good guy.  He had a great sense of humour also.   When I was selling  his and  Kathy’s home on Parkville Ave he was going on a moose hunting trip. I jokingly said bring me some moose whiskers so I know you actually got a moose. Sure enough he told me to go and look on the workbench in his garage.  There waiting for me was a couple of moose whiskers. From then on we each called one other moose whiskers.   I believe everyone that knew Marcel has positive, funny, and fond memories and will miss him very much. He loved his family, he loved the outdoors, and he loved life.   We’ll miss him but at the same time carry in our hearts fond memories, a smile, and he will never be forgotten.     

Chris

February 18, 2022 at 4:44 PM

I heard about this today at work when I bumped into Sean’s brother Jared on a job site. I couldn’t believe it. At one time I was very close with Marcel. In that time he was a huge mentor to me. I learnt so much from him, in fact he taught my whole hunting crew that we had been skinning deer wrong all these years and showed us how to do it right lol. He was right by saying that and we still use his technique today.  To date the biggest buck I have ever shot was with Marcel by my side. Rest in piece my friend and my deepest condolences to your family. Cheers

Sandy Cunha

February 18, 2022 at 3:18 PM

Our deepest sympathies for this beautiful family.  I’m so grateful that we met  Marcel , Kathy and Kim back in 2006.  We hold many memories with you all❤️.  God bless the entire Devine family 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻❤ Sandy Cunha and family 

Darren Manley

February 8, 2022 at 1:51 PM

Thinking of Marcel and trying to decide what to write that says what I’m feeling and, for once, I’m at a loss for words.  Right now, looking at the picture of him smiling I can hear the laugh that goes with it and remember some of the corny jokes that often preceded it.  As an Operator I remember the relief of seeing him waiting for me at a timing point when I had an issue on my bus and, conversely, the sudden fear of seeing him waiting for me when everything on my bus was fine (and my mind starting to race trying to think of something I’d done). More often than not he was just taking the opportunity to see how things were going.  As a newly minted Acting Supervisor I remember being worried about my first shift with Marcel. What if I do the wrong thing? What if I freeze? What if I don’t know what to do? Marcel was a great mentor and would give rookies the space to do what needed to be done, would step in only when he needed to, and would often take the opportunity to turn something into a teachable moment.  I can’t remember how many times I asked for his advice for work and personal issues. I didn’t always take his advice and it would often turn out that he was correct (again that smile).  Saying Marcel will be missed doesn’t feel like it’s enough.  I’ll remember his smile and the corny jokes and I will smile.

Cheryl and David Rimke

February 8, 2022 at 11:03 AM

Kathy and family, deepest condolences to you. I miss the many chats Kathy and I had about Marcel and her family at work. He was the real deal and will be sadly missed. Sending love to you all. 😳❤❤

Lana

February 5, 2022 at 9:46 AM

What a beautiful tribute of Marcel and his life. My deepest condolences to Kathy and family. Lots of love to you all 💕😳 Lana Perchaluk

Karen Ladell

February 4, 2022 at 8:50 PM

Kathy! So sorry about the loss of your husband Marcel! I had the pleasure of meeting him a few times at work and heard many stories about what a nice man he was and how helpful he was to others! He will be missed!!💗💗

Dennis & Marianne Kutchma/Fleming

February 4, 2022 at 4:01 PM

Kathy, We are so sorry to hear about Marcels passing. Marcel and Kathy were our neighbors on Parkville before they moved to the country.  He was a great guy and neighbor, very good at everything he did. He will be sadly missed. Deepest sympathy to Kathy,David/Colleen,Kim/Sean and grandchildren. Take care!!❤

Candice Lagasse

February 4, 2022 at 3:12 PM

I'm so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you. 

Ed Desautels

February 3, 2022 at 5:50 PM

Sorry to hear of Marcel’s passing. I worked with Marcel at Wpg Transit for many years.  He was a really good supervisor that u could always count on.Deepest condolences to the family. Ed Desautels, retired driver 

Ernie Penner

February 2, 2022 at 7:19 PM

Kathy and family, so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you all.

Lorraine & Bruce Miller

February 2, 2022 at 2:48 PM

Kathy and family,  deepest condolences for  losing a really great guy. We first met you and Marcel over 32 years ago and can say we shared some great memories together.  From the barbecues, swimming, snowmobiling  and our famous Garth Brooks concert, those will always be cherished. We hope you gain strength from your family, they meant the world to Marcel. Lorraine & Bruce Miller

Garry Tuminski

February 1, 2022 at 10:23 PM

Our deepest heartfelt sympathy to  Kathy and Family.  Great guy with the greatest smile.  Garry and Linda T.

Donna Switzer

February 1, 2022 at 1:07 PM

Kathy, I am so very sorry to hear of Marcel’s passing.  My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Karen Douglas

January 31, 2022 at 12:20 PM

Kathy, I am so sorry to hear of Marcel’s passing. Thinking of you at this difficult time. Karen (Regent Dental)

Wade Razella

January 31, 2022 at 9:38 AM

It has been already but anytime Marcel gave you his word it was better than gold. Marcel and I met back in Nov 1999. He was still a driver and an acting supervisor. Marcel was always around to mentor me and to help me and any which way right up to his retirement and still chatted with me after from time to time.  Marcel was very instrumental in coaching and helping me become a better Supervisor and taught me the true meaning of treating all operators with respect and as our customers.  I will deeply miss you Marcel my mentor, friend, and brother. My heart goes out to Kathy and the entire family. ❤ My condolences and deepest sympathies to everyone.  Always our thoughts and prayers. Tracy and Wade Razella

Doug Belcher

January 31, 2022 at 7:27 AM

I did not have the length of a transit career that Marcel had but he was very dedicated to his job and my observations were always that he always got the job done and as a retired driver I appreciated that .   So sad that his retirement was so short.            

Dawn Dawn

January 31, 2022 at 6:41 AM

Marcel’s friendship was an honour, and will always be remembered. The world has lost an incredible life. Dawn & Derk 

Trevor Chase

January 30, 2022 at 9:55 PM

Marcel… you have definitely left a void in this world. I have had the pleasure of working with Marcel for 18 years. Both as a bus operator and supervisor. The professionalism that he always exuded shone through with each and every call I responded to with him. Marcel inspired a lot of us on the street, and I for one always looked up to him, and respected his feedback. Marcel, the way you spoke of your family left no doubt in anyones mind of the true feelings that you had for each and everyone of them. The pride and love that you showed for them was genuine and extremely powerful. I will miss you my friend, and I cherish the short time that we shared together. Until we meet again Marcel.  To Marcel’s family, please accept our deepest condolences.  Trevor, Stacy, Addison, Ashton and Arianna

Kevin Ford

January 30, 2022 at 7:09 PM

Over my 37 yrs as a Mechanic at Ft.Rouge Transit garage Marcel and I crossed paths many times and it was always entertaining! More so over the last 5 years he would visit us regularly at the garage when it was slow on the streets and we always had a good laugh or vented our frustrations. Whenever I called into the Control Center going for a tow call and he was on shift I would get the usual upbeat reply of “hello Kevy how is it going! Usually followed by “I’ll come and visit you guys later”. An all around excellent coworker and friend ,he deserved a long rewarding retirement, just not fair life sometimes.  My Condolences to the family  R.I.P. Marcel Kevin Ford  

Luc Dupuis

January 30, 2022 at 3:05 PM

Very sad day . My condolence to the family .RIP Marcel 

Daniel marion

January 30, 2022 at 12:01 PM

What Great memories of such an AWSOME Man !  Probably explain why he was always such a wonderful person with a “Positive Attitude”every time I’d meet him either at his work or on the streets, RIP, Till we meet again❤

Danny Smith

January 30, 2022 at 11:50 AM

What can I say that hasn't already been said.. It was always a pleasure to work with Marcel...he was the utmost professional in every thing he did..he was trusted by all those who worked with him...he was a true gentleman,in every aspect of the word..this world would be a far better place,if there were more Marcel's...a man of integrity...anyone who had an encounter with u was truly blessed..u were a true leader,mentor and friend to all.. You will be missed..

John D. Vagi

January 30, 2022 at 11:21 AM

My thoughts and prayers are with Marcel and his Family. Marcel was a good Friend and co-worker. I had many opportunities to work with Marcel in many events at Winnipeg Transit he was always Professional and open. This world is a much sadder place without Marcels presence. John D. Vagi Winnipeg Transit Staff Instructor (Ret)

Nelson Maurer

January 30, 2022 at 10:38 AM

Marcel was my friend. I am lucky to have met him, and am grateful to be able to say that he was my friend. It is not an over exaggeration to say he was an inspiration to me almost daily. Whether it was one of our many conversations (many many many conversations), the compassion he showed to the less fortunate people we encountered in our workplace; his love, respect and fierce loyalty and willingness to stand up for his many friends and colleagues whether they knew it or not; the vast number of friends he has; his ability to do everything he set his mind to; the grace in which he went through the final chapter of his life; and especially the love, pride and joy he showed anytime he spoke about any and every member of his family. If anyone was larger than life, Marcel was, and knowing him has made me a better person. I miss my friend. Love you, Bud.  To Kathy, David, Kim and all of Marcel’s family, please accept our love and condolences in this difficult time, we are grieving with you. Nelson, Leocadia and Jack

M.Pierson

January 30, 2022 at 9:45 AM

My sincerest condolences to the family. Marcel was an out standing supervisor in a challenging profession and could always be counted on. Although I have been retired from Transit for 4 years, I am deeply saddened by the news. G. Pierson 

Tony Reis

January 30, 2022 at 9:01 AM

My condolences to the family. I worked with Marcel at Transit also. I remember helping him cut up a moose in his new “Butcher Shop” in St Rita. He was so excited about that new setup.  Tony “The Butcher” Reis 

Ray Wagemakers

January 30, 2022 at 8:58 AM

Marcel was a mentor to everyone and that smile...you couldn't help but like him. Whenever we would run into each other and chat, I was compelled to hear what he had to say. It was always positive and meaningful. He was so thoughtful and eager to give sound advice...such a great person! You will never be forgotten. My condolences to the family and may you find the strength and power to navigate forward in this difficult time.❤

Lisa

January 30, 2022 at 6:48 AM

My deepest condolences to Kathy and his family ❤ I remember 15yrs ago starting as a bus operator and my first incident that happened on my 19. Marcel was the Supervisor who arrived on my bus and assured me everything would be ok, also told me if I needed the rest of the shift off I could take that, I knew at this point in my career he was the one I could count on "to have my back" and feel protected on the job! Outside the job, Marcel had taken my partner and I fishing on the Red River for Catfish, and although we didn't catch one other guy in the boat landed one and you could tell Marcel was happy with that and disappointed that the rest of us didn't catch, and promised us to another trip to try again. I also remember being invited out to his "fish fry" and dragging my toddler and partner out to his place where he fed everyone the fish he caught n cooked. Was a great time as always when hanging out with Marcel. I missed seeing him (esp these last couple years cuz of Covid) at work for little visits at my terminal to check in and see how things were going and to show me pictures of all sorts of things he had been working on. He was very talented at Carpentry from the pictures he would show me.  I feel like he was always someone I could count on, and I'm sad he is gone. Gonna miss you Marcel! 😪🌹🙏 

Nicole

January 29, 2022 at 9:23 PM

Always ready to help, we will remember you fondly and miss you deeply. 

Spiro Mavroudis

January 29, 2022 at 8:38 PM

Marcel personified what it means to honor both operators and supervisors. He touched 1,000s of lives during his career, saved a few himself and helped people often on the worst days of their lives. He was there. He went towards danger, not away from it. His word had meaning. It saddens me that he didn't get to enjoy the rewards of such a career and honorable life. His memory lives on in us. He is loved and missed!

Don Arnal

January 29, 2022 at 8:27 PM

So sorry to hear of Marcel's passing. I also was a bus operator at Transit and have good memories of Marcel. He was a fun guy , had a lot of laughs together. Rest in peace Marcel

Roger Peet

January 29, 2022 at 7:50 PM

I have worked with Marcel for 19 years as a driver and supervisor. He helped me throughout the years on so many different situations. I will miss his witty nature and honesty. My condolences to family and friends. Thank you for sharing the beautiful pictures. 

Norman & Thérèse Collette

January 29, 2022 at 2:07 PM

It is with great sadness that I learned of Marcel’s passing.  Marcel’s beautiful video is such a wonderful tribute to his love of family, friends and life! We will miss you at the Berard cousins get together.Deepest sympathy to Kathy, and the children and grand children. We will keep all of you in our prayers, including the Devigne family.

Greg McCaffrey

January 29, 2022 at 1:58 PM

What a wonderful video Kathy.  My deepest condolences on your loss. I have so many great memories of my time spent with Marcel, whether at work, hunting, or out at his Dad's farm.  While we did not maintain a close connection later in life, he will be missed.  Greg & Lisa McCaffrey

Claudette Herie Norbury

January 29, 2022 at 1:28 PM

Beautiful video showing that you obviously were an outdoor man. Your Mom and Dad would be so proud of the man you came to be,  Please tell your Mom in heaven that I love her still. I have so many happy memories of when you were small and I used to come from Winnipeg to spend months at your home.  You were like family to me so I will say rest in peace little brother.

Vivianne & Rheal Remillard

January 29, 2022 at 1:25 PM

Such a beautiful tribute Kathy. Our memories will be super sweet ones playing hockey with the local St Joseph Gophers team. I don't know how your children turned out but hopefully  they have some of the charisma their dad had to make friends and be able to take up a conversation so easily.❤

Dee Whittaker

January 29, 2022 at 12:04 PM

Marcel was my neighbor and over the years we became great friends.  We had the opportunity to call upon him to help build a deck at our new house.  We could always count on him for an honest opinion on any improvements we wanted to do.  He was a jack of all trades.  We saw him last summer when he and Kathy stop by for a visit.  We had fun conversations and shared some great memories.   He will be dearly miss.

Danny

January 29, 2022 at 11:22 AM

My deepest condolences to the family . I’m a bus operator at transit and marcel was always kind and supporting may he Rest In Peace ❤️

Noëlla Fontaine

January 29, 2022 at 11:21 AM

Dear Kathy, It is with great sadness that I learned of Marcel’s passing.  Marcel’s beautiful video is such a wonderful tribute to his love of family, friends and life! Thinking of you and offering my deepest condolences to you and your family. Noëlla Fontaine (SJR)

Don Dupuis and family

January 29, 2022 at 11:13 AM

Many memories going as far back as Kenora days and St Joseph. Many antics with all the kids. Not sure if it was him driving the tractor or nearly getting run over. Could have been Claud or Robert. Of course I was innocent.  His wit and his hilarious pranks. Always enjoyed all the times we happened to see each other. Say hi to your mom and dad.

Flory and Lina Paul

January 29, 2022 at 10:54 AM

Flory and I are so saddened at the passing of Marcel. When he moved to ste rita he came over to introduce himself and offered his help if we ever needed. He said if you ever need help with anything give me a call! Whenever he would see us outside while driving by he would give a honk or a wave. Always with a great big smile. We always seen him in the neighborhood spending time with his grandchildren. Pulling them with his snowmobile on the tobbagan riding with them on his quad. Lots of lovely chats with him!! May God keep Kathy and family strong. The pictures are just like we remember always wearing his brown pants..

Hermann

January 29, 2022 at 10:54 AM

Knew marcel through work this is absolutely shocking news . He was absolute gentleman. My sincere condolences to family and friends . 

Derek J Hanley

January 29, 2022 at 10:41 AM

I am still at a loss for words. Marcel was an amazing person and always always going that extra step for the operators. When Marcel showed up you could calm down as you knew things we're going to be handled. He always cared about the operators well being. I remember talking to Marcel on one of his last shifts and he was so ready to retire, hunting, fishing, his shop and grandkids. Gone way to soon, he will be deeply missed. My sincerest condolences to your entire family. Godspeed Marcel.

Allan Fifer

January 29, 2022 at 10:29 AM

You will be missed on the streets of Winnipeg, God bless RIP my friend  Allan Fifer 

Crystal Hanley

January 29, 2022 at 10:29 AM

Marcel was a man with a big heart. We had many conversations at work about his love of the outdoors. He was a firm but fair person who was very well respected. When he showed up to a call, you knew that you would be taken care of! I was sad when he had retired, but even more sadened to hear of his passing. My condolences to his family during this difficult time 🙏

Waldemar (Walter) Antos

January 29, 2022 at 9:20 AM

Our sincere condolences to Kathy, David, Kim and their families. I did learn to like and respect Marcel for his fairness and skills both at Transit and many "side 'jobs. He helped me and my wife when in Control Center or on the street, quite a few times too. Extremely saddened by the news of his illness and passing. RIP, Marcel🙏

Jerry Weiss

January 29, 2022 at 8:54 AM

Shocked and sad ! I will miss him ! Jerry Weiss

Scott and Tracey

January 29, 2022 at 8:40 AM

Marcel was a great friend. The memories of having a couples movie night along with our yearly fishing trip to Cormorant Lake will forever be steadfastly sweet. Marcel was always generous with his time and knowledge. -1st to arrive with equipment when we had a basement flood -happy to help me install saddle bags on my motorcycle The list of ways he cared for and helped Tracey and I are endless. Marcel was a man of integrity and ultimately most conversations happily led back to his family and his next planned outing/visit. Take care my friend. Condolences to Kathy and Co.❤

Randy Tonnellier

January 29, 2022 at 8:33 AM

My sincere condolences to Kathy and all of Marcel’s loved ones. He was a much beloved member of the Transit family.

Marc Proulx

January 29, 2022 at 8:14 AM

Rip Uncle Marcel. We miss you 

Matt Jones

January 29, 2022 at 7:10 AM

I’m terribly sorry for your loss….Marcel always took time to ask me how I and my family were whenever we’d cross paths…..Whenever there was a “situation” I took great comfort to see it was Marcel responding….First time meeting him he teased me for having what looked like a “mama” made lunch  and indeed, it was…. Peace be with you Matt Jones

Tim

January 29, 2022 at 6:53 AM

I worked with Marcel for 26yrs. He was a great guy. When I seen him on the streets  he would always tell me about his Family and  how well they where doing.  He was a friend and I will always remember him.

Darren Ralke

January 29, 2022 at 12:28 AM

Condolences to Kathy and all the family. He was a good guy 

Richard Derry

January 28, 2022 at 10:52 PM

Exchanged verbal barbs with Marcel & had many laughs over the years. He was a man of solid character. My condolences to hi entire family.

Edna Davies

January 28, 2022 at 10:34 PM

I want to give my deepest sympathies and condolences to Kathy and the family. He will be deeply missed by myself and my family. I could always count on him to do some jobs for myself and my daughters. 

Rob johnstone

January 28, 2022 at 10:19 PM

Good man great street supervisor drivers sùpervisor  above all great man to know will be missed  glad to have known this gentelman

Paul and Rena Linder

January 28, 2022 at 9:54 PM

Dave and family, I never met your dad, but can’t help to think if he was anything like you, a good man he must have been. We are so sorry for your loss and lift you up with thoughts and prayers. Hope you find comfort in knowing you are loved and we wish you happy memories!❤

Zoltan Veress

January 28, 2022 at 8:54 PM

I'm shocked and saddened about his sudden passing. It was just "yesterday" when Marvel retired... I knew Marcel through work, (Winnipeg Transit) where everyone held him in high regards. He will be greatly missed... 

Burke Ratte

January 28, 2022 at 8:41 PM

unbelievable!! We went hunting for moose many years ago. When I worked for Transit I would always get out and have a quick chat with Marcel .. I have been meaning to give him a call for months.  

Darlene McWilliams

January 28, 2022 at 8:41 PM

You always had a smile on your face at work, which sometimes was a difficult thing to do. I knew when you walked up to my bus to help, things would get taken care of. I'm sorry for your family for not getting another 30 plus years with you, but you probably made enough memories with them for them to cherish all those times and be able to tell and re-tell them all. Will miss you Marcel. 

Connie Shane

January 28, 2022 at 8:32 PM

My condolences to his family.   Shocked and saddened by his passing. 😓   He will be greatly missed

Glenn Cormack

January 28, 2022 at 5:13 PM

You will be missed 

Dan Kirk

January 28, 2022 at 4:59 PM

I was terribly saddened to learn of Marcel’s passing. As the Chief Inspector at Transit, Marcel was one of my best appointments to the position of Inspector. His reliable, can-do attitude quickly came to the forefront in everything he did. My fondest memory of Marcel was the fabulous job he did managing the transit operations deficated to the Francaphone Games and the relationships he built with Bus Operators.   My other most vivid memory was the love and pride you could see in his eyes every time he spoke of his family.   My prayers and thoughts are with Kathy, David and Kim in your time of sorrow. Always remember how much he loved his family and the admiration held for him by hundreds of his Transit family. God Bless. https://www.ethicaldeathcare.com/devigne-marcel

Carly

January 28, 2022 at 4:43 PM

Beautiful tribute. I have very find memories of Marcel. A few of my favorite were my trip with the family to English Lake where I shot a gun for the first time, the fish fries mentioned above and the fact that the man liked me enough to let me borrow movies (which for those of you who know how serious he was about his collection that is a pretty high honor). You will be missed. Sending all my love to family and friends in this difficult time. 
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