Gilbert Germain Longpre
Gilbert grew up in St. Albert, Alberta and was the youngest of four children raised by Lucien and Irene Longpre. He attended the Catholic school system and graduated from St. Albert High School in 1977.
Gilbert had many fond memories of growing up with the many neighbourhood kids on Mount Royal Drive, who always played outside all season no matter the weather. Kick the Can, Red Rover, riding the only bike the family had or sledding at breakneck speeds down the notorious Seven Hills. Gilbert’s fondest memories are of playing hockey on the outdoor rink at the Little White School where he attended grades 1-3.
Hockey would indeed define Gilbert as he matured into adulthood. He played for the hometown St. Albert Saints and the Fort St John Flyers in NE British Columbia. Through his hockey contacts Gilbert made his way to Newfoundland playing for several different teams but is best known for playing for the Corner Brook Royals, a team that he helped win the Alan Cup in 1986. Gilbert fell in love with the people and culture of Newfoundland and lived there for many years. While there he obtained a master’s degree in social work from Wilfred Laurier University in 1994. Gilbert continued to practice in this profession while living in Newfoundland.
Gilbert returned home to St. Albert and eventually resided at Ottewell Manor in Edmonton. While Gilbert suffered health challenges, he remained true to his identity as a gentle, kind and loving man, that everyone whom he crossed paths with, spoke fondly of.
Gilbert was predeceased by his parents, Lucien and Irene, and his sister Yvette Bilodeau. He is survived by his daughter Meghan, her husband Gavin, and grandchildren, Liam and Lily of Corner Brook, Newfoundland. Gilbert is also survived by brother Gerald (Francine) and sister Muriel (Dave) along with many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the staff of the Intensive Care Unit at the University of Alberta Hospital for their kind professional care.
At Gilbert’s request there will not be a funeral. Donations of sympathy can be directed to a charity of your choice or the Mental Health Association Edmonton
A wonderful life story, just as I remember Gilbert! May he rest in peace.
Thank you Dan. Appreciate you saying that about Gilbert. There is so much more to one’s life than the few words written in an obituary. His kind, gentle spirit and his love of hockey has been a common thread from everyone who has reached out.
We are so so sorry for the loss of Gilbert and will keep you all in hearts and prayers. I am so thankful I had the opportunity to meet up with Gilbert a while back in the store, we chatted for quite some time . From what I remember of Gilbert he was a still that gentle kind soul and very easy to talk to. God bless you, and enjoy reuniting with your Mom, dad and Yvette. You will be in good loving hands 🙏🙏✨✨❤️
Deb Kelly
Thank you Debbie, appreciate your kind words.
Gibert. Became a family friend. In stephenville, babysitter our children, kept in touch regularly and couldn’t find a nicer person. Enjoy our conversation, to bad you were so far away. Your suffering is over. Rest in peace my friend. Kevin Brenda Danielle and Kyle.
Thank you Kevin for reaching out. Gilbert loved living in Newfoundland, spoke very highly of the people. You are so right…..too bad our provinces are so far away from each other.
Our sincere sympathies to Gilbert’s family and friends. May the many fond memories of him help you through this difficult time. 🙏