Obituary of Yvette Albina Rivard

It is with deep sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Yvette Rivard at the age of 93 years with family by her side. Born in Fort Kent, Alberta, Yvette became the 7th child out of thirteen siblings. Growing up in a large family on the farm they were always surrounded by love and laughter. She grew up with a wonderful sense of humor which stayed with her until the very end. The caregivers at Extendicare always told us how much fun they had with her, never knowing what pearl she would come out with. While raising her family she would often tell you “You can’t leave, we haven’t laughed at you yet.” A typical weekend would find Yvette and her family at Madeline’s with a few of her siblings and children, about 20 cousins running around, love and laughter permeating everything they did. When not with her immediate family, she would be found with her husband Henri and her even much larger square dance family. She loved music and dancing and could always be found sharing that love by helping others learn to love and enjoy square dancing. Her greatest love of family could be seen while she was caring for her babies. Besides her 6 natural children, one she lost (Réal in 1957-1958), she fostered new-borns until they found their new home, until the last, Johnny, who became the final member of the family. Yvette is survived by her children Marcel (Pam) Rivard, Jeanine (David) Willsher, Theresa (Dan) Côté, Daniel (Marilyn) Rivard, Paul Rivard and John Jacobson, grandchildren Katie, Ashley, Teddy, Matthew, Andrew, Brian, Jamie, Tyler, Nicholas, Damon, Emilie and Taylor, great-grandchildren Anthony, Kilian, Serenity, Cadence, Zoey, Maida, Bennett, Adele, Bernard, Alice and Elliot as well as siblings Jeanette Côté, George Leguerrier and Lise Pigeon. She is now reunited with her husband Henri, parents Georges and Julianna, infant son Réal as well as her siblings Paul, Cecile, Lucienne, Laurette, Claire, Madeline, Maurice, Roger and Lucien. A funeral service will be held at the St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church on Friday, April 22nd at 2:00 p.m. with Father Benjamin Belgica officiating. Yvette’s family would like to give their heartfelt thank you to all the nurses and staff at Mayerthorpe Extendicare for all the compassion they have shown and to Spruce View Lodge before that. It has not gone unnoticed, and the family is forever grateful.If friends and family so desire, memorial contributions may be made directly to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.