February 24, 1935 - September 23, 2018
Born Yvonne Lorraine Genereaux, February 24, 1935, London, Ontario, to Minnie (Stanton) and Cyril Genereaux.
A lover of life, Yvonne enjoyed all aspects of it. At a young age she showed great passion for animals, reading, writing, music and acting, all threads that sewed through her life. The aspiring model met her military man on the beaches of Grand Bend. With Yves Gilbert Brillant, she had daughter Darlene and son Michael Wayne. They enjoyed 53 years together, travelling with their young family to air force bases across Europe and Canada.
A fabulous life of fun and adventure, Yvonne didn't let retirement stop her. After 12 years in Downsview (Toronto)Ontario, in various work, including sewing epaulets, braiding and medals on military uniforms, the family moved to Lahr (1 Wing), Germany, where she continued working, this time at the air base's PX, and packing up a Volkswagen camper van every opportunity that presented itself for many memorable holiday trips around Germany, Switzerland, Spain and French Riviera.
After 4 years in Europe, the next posting was CFB Edmonton, Alberta, where Yvonne carried on her independent ways, working for Eatons Department store selling appliances, and setting up shop for herself, collecting vintage clothing and furniture, a foray that saw her business bloom into a supplier of theatre and theme parties, television and movies, outfitting Klondike Day parades and celebrations with her amazing costume and prop collection.
Some of this moved with her to Crofton-by-the Sea, Vancouver Island, where she and husband Yves ("Guy") retired. Not only did they continue their annual snowbird trips to sunny Nevada and Arizona, Yvonne carried on her creative passion, outfitting many local Vancouver Island theatre shows and parades, taking part herself in costume and seen driving with Guy in a Great Gatsby-type replica car.
People will remember Yvonne for her model good looks and ever-ready smile, love of Elvis, cowboys, and country & western music.
Predeceased by her parents, son and husband, Yvonne will be greatly missed by daughter Darlene and son-in-law Don, sister Betty Ann, nephews Cameron and Stuart, family in Ontario and Quebec.
Thanks to Dr. Archdekin and Chemanius Clinic for over 20 years health and wellness, and Dr. Andrea Wilhelm and the Seniors Outreach/Community Care team for their compassionate palliative in-home program.
Special thanks to Lynn Scott for exceptional care and loving friendship these past 7 years. Yvonne passed in the wee hours of September 27th, in the wake of a bright fall harvest full moon, in the comfort of her cozy bed with Ginger Kitty at her feet, Vera the Great Dane ever present.
In lieu of service and flowers, please consider supporting your local actors and theatre groups, SPCA/animal refuges, Alzheimer and cancer societies.
Cherish your Seniors. Respect your Veterans. They pioneered, worked hard and fought wars for us and our Country.
And to Yvonne...
a tip of the hat! Adieu, a bientot. Until we meet again.
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