Obituary of Denis Gaetan Jean
Denis Gaetan Jean was born in Debden, Saskatchewan on September 15, 1937 to Louis and Noella Jean. Denis was the 7th of 13 children. Denis grew up on the farm, milking cows, and working with horses. He attended the Wanakena school until grade 9 when he went to work on the farm full time. He always spoke most fondly about working with the horses.
Denis married Angeline Savard on May 15th, 1961. They lived in Debden where Denis became an automotive mechanic and worked in the hardware store for a few years before moving back to the farm. Together they built up their farm and raised 6 children in the Catholic faith. They had pure-bred Simmental cattle and farmed grain and hay. They also had a giant garden, raised chickens and self-provided as much as possible. In 1999 they decided to sell the farm, retire and moved into town shortly after. In town, Denis was very active in the Golden Age center, organizing pool tournaments and card tournaments. He was the village garden tiller with his trusty Kubota tractor, taking care of neighbours and taking care of the Catholic Church across the street from their house. Denis and Angeline moved to Luther Heights in Saskatoon in 2019 to be closer to their children. Denis was able to organize a few more pool tournaments and events at Luther Heights with his new friends.
Denis was involved in the Simmental Association, the local Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, curling, supporting his community and his family. There was no trip to any town in Canada where Denis didn’t run into someone he knew. Denis was known for his ability to strike up a conversation with anyone-anywhere, his sense of humor, story-telling, and of course, his booming laugh.
Denis is survived by his wife of 62 years Angeline, and many brothers and sisters. He will be remembered by his children Pierrette (Darryl) Turley, Therese (Neil) Tomasiewicz, Mariette Jean, Lisa (David) Sader, Fabien (Maureen) Jean and Serge (Daria) Jean, his many grand-children and great-grandchildren.
Denis is pre-deceased by four of his sisters, Pierrette, Laurette (Ray) Bonner, Cecile (Glorien) Couture and Anita (Arthur) Dumais.
Denis passed away on March 16th, 2024 surrounded by his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He’s left us with many fond memories, good jokes, and an example of deep faith. He will be missed by all who love him and the world will be a quieter place without him.
Denis’s Funeral will be held 10:00 am, Saturday, March 23rd , 2024 at Sts. Martyrs Canadiens Church at 1007 Windsor Street in Saskatoon. Come and celebrate his life with us. Memorial Donations may be directed to the Church Mass in Denis's name and memory. Family and friends wishing to send online condolences are welcome to visit www.beaulacfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home and Crematorium, Lori Saam Funeral Director, Shellbrook, SK 306-747-2828.
