Jan. 7, 1946 – Jan. 6, 2026

It is with deep sorrow that the Rouleau family announces the passing of our beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, Gilles Rouleau, on the day before his 80th birthday.

Gilles was born in Sherbrooke, Que., on Jan. 7, 1946. He moved with his family to Ontario to follow his father’s logging career in the early 1950s. Gilles was married to his high school sweetheart, Judi, for 59 years. His marriage to his beloved wife was one to be deeply admired. They shared a true partnership built on friendship, laughter and unwavering love. Together, they embraced adventure, cherished time with family and friends, and found joy in the everyday moments. Above all, he loved her immensely, and that love was evident in everything he did.

Gilles was a proud father to Michael (Renee) and Steven (Paula). He was a devoted father to his two sons, leading with high expectations rooted in respect and hard work. His firm guidance helped shape their character and instill the values that continue to guide them today. Beneath his serious exterior was a warm heart, a sharp sense of humour and a deep, unconditional love for his family.

He was a proud Grampa to Marc, Gabrielle (Andrew), Sydney and Joshua (Julia). Gilles watched his grandchildren grow and flourish with overwhelming pride. He never missed a game, a recital, a meet or a match. Grampa was always the first to hear about every story, adventure or triumph. His teachings will live on in them forever — strength and determination, loving deeply and wholeheartedly, living with integrity, doing the right thing even when it was difficult, and never shying away from hard work. He shaped not only their childhoods, but the people they have become.

Gilles was predeceased by his parents, Leo Georges and Rose Aimee (Bisson) Rouleau. Loving brother to the late Renaud; Nicole (Rick) Howe; Alain (Val); the late Daniel (Cindy); and Lynne. He was also predeceased by his in-laws, Jim and Marie Murphy, and late brothers-in-law Jim (the late Shirley), John and Michael Murphy. Gilles was a cherished uncle, great-uncle and cousin to many.

Gilles was a man of many talents, with a remarkable ability to work with both steel and wood. In 1985, he founded Ro-Von Steel Limited with partners before eventually venturing out on his own. He retired in 2006, deeply proud of the work he had built and the reputation he had earned through dedication and skill.

His greatest pride in retirement was his remarkable project, the Iron Maiden. A tugboat-style trawler, she was designed and fabricated entirely by Gilles, start to finish, out of steel. The project began in 2007 and was launched in 2012 — a true testament to his craftsmanship, perseverance and vision. Gilles and Judi enjoyed 10 memorable years aboard the Iron Maiden at A-Dock in the Bellevue Marina, creating countless cherished memories together.

Alongside Judi and many dear friends, Gilles embraced travel and adventure. Together, they journeyed coast to coast across Canada, Alaska, Mexico and California with Mariette and Fidele; explored Europe and Florida with Al, Val, Dan and Cindy; boating with Brian and Leona; concerts with Susan and John; and enjoyed time relaxing in Phoenix with Betty and Arnold. These travels were marked by friendship, laughter and a shared love of discovering new places and experiences.

At home, Gilles found joy in the simple pleasures — spending time by the wood stove in his garage, playing crib with Guy and Marilyn, enjoying a Manhattan or a shot of brandy, and always being ready to help a neighbour, whether snowblowing a driveway or lending a helping hand. His interests were many and varied, including hunting, fishing, boating, cheering on the Montreal Canadiens, and spending time at camp up north, particularly at Achigan Lake, which he shared with his brothers.

Gilles was many things, but above all, he was a devoted family man. His legacy of pride, love, leadership and hard work will live on through the many lives he touched.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Dr. Woolridge, Dr. Hill, Dr. Reich, Dr. Berry, Dr. Aziz and Dr. Webb for their compassionate care.

As per the family’s request, a memorial mass will be held by Father Rex Lumine at St. Gerard Majella (211 Pentagon Blvd.) on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, at 1 p.m., followed by committal at Holy Sepulchre — Columbarium. Afterwards, a come-and-go celebration of life in Gilles’ honour will be held from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Grand Gardens (1324 Great Northern Rd.).

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations (made payable by cheque) to the Sault Area Hospital Foundation Cardiology Unit or Cancer Clinic (750 Great Northern Rd., Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., P6B 0A8) would be greatly appreciated by the family.

Visit www.osullivanfuneralhome.com to leave condolences for the family. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James St., Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).