September 30, 1940 - October 31, 2021
Emile Joseph Vaillancourt of Merritt British Columbia passed away on Sunday October 31, 2021, at the age of 81 years old. EJ, as he was best known was born September 30, 1940, in Lafond Alberta. He passed due to complications from Parkinson's and heart disease and was surrounded by his loving wife and sons by his side in the Merritt General Hospital.
EJ was a 33-year employee of Teck Highland Valley Copper, working for 3 different company names never leaving the valley, as he used to say. He retired in 1999, enjoyed RVing and fishing. He was an active member for years in the Ashcroft Rod and Gun Club and was a sports fan always cheering for his Vancouver Canucks and BC Lions. In his earlier days he spent his spare time learning to be a Lock Smith and Furniture Upholsterer. He was always involved in his sons' sports activities as a coach, mentor, and most of all, a fan.
EJ was predeceased by his mother, father, sister and two brothers. He is survived by his wife Laurie Vaillancourt of 57 years, his son Todd Vaillancourt (Linda) of Kamloops, his son Travis Vaillancourt (Annie) of Penticton, his granddaughter Danae Vaillancourt (Jamie) of Calgary and step granddaughters Haley Maunula of Edmonton, Vanessa Maunula of Kamloops, and Tyra Maunula (Brent) of Kamloops. He is also survived by his sister Denise (Bill) Cressy of Merritt and many extended families, and friends.
At EJ's request there will be no formal service, but a gathering of immediate family and close friends will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers if so desired, a donation may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or to the Parkinson's Society of British Columbia in his name