Obituary of Hermel Desjardins

Hermel G. Desjardins passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 14, 2022 at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Hermel was born on October 19, 1942 in Notre Dame de Lourdes, NB to the late Eddie and Almida Desjardins (Gagon).

Hermel will be dearly missed by his wife of 52 years, Valerie (Gifford), sons; Peter Desjardins and his wife Roxann, and Robert Desjardins and his wife Terri, brothers; Rene Desjardins and his wife Jocelyne, Sylvo Desjardins and his wife Julienne, sister Lèola Fortin, grandchildren; Benjamin, Tyler, and Hannah, special kitty Rosie, and many nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents and several siblings.

Hermel moved to Saint John at the age of 16, where he started his 46-year long welding career with JDI. He began at the South Bay Sawmill before moving onto Atlantic Truck and Trailer, CFM and eventually retired from Fleetway. He took great pride in his work, he cared deeply about every task he tended too, and was considered by many to be perfectionist.

Hermel was an avid outdoorsman, he loved to hunt, fish and ATV. You could often find him feeding and watching the backyard wildlife, especially the cardinals and blue jays. He was a proud father and grandfather, Hermel’s family meant everything to him.

The family would like to thank the Pallative Care and Oncology Department staff and doctors for their care and compassion given to Hermel, especially Dr. Gray. Many thanks to our neighbours Paul, Sheryl and Brittany for all their help over the years.

Arrangements have been entrusted with Castle Funeral Home, 309 Lancaster Ave, Saint John, 506-634-1701. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 19, from 2:00PM – 4:00 PM and 6:00PM – 8:00PM. A Graveside Service will take place in Holy Cross Cemetery on Wednesday, April 20, at 1:00 PM. Donations in Hermel’s memory can be made to the Nature Conservatory Canada (New Brunswick) Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of the donor’s choice.