Obituary of Rolland Gustave Durand
Obituary of Rolland (Rollie) Durand MC CD
It is with great sadness that the family and close friends of Rolland (Rollie) Durand announce his passing on Thursday February 18th, 2021 at the age of 100. Rollie was a proud veteran of World War II. After the war he was a career officer for 27 years in the army and then spent 14 years in the public service of Canada. Rollie was a beloved husband for 61 years to the late Ruth Dinah Reynolds and was predeceased by his son Marc, and daughter Suzanne Sprague-Chapple. He was a loving grandfather to Erica Caddo (Barrett) and great grandfather to Carmen and Brixton Caddo. Rollie is sadly missed by Allison and Lisa Sprague and daughters Emilie (Drew) and Sarah (Michael). Cherished by son-in-law Glen Chapple and his wife Sian Tucker, Glen’s children Melanie (Patrick), Jeremy (Erin), and Sian’s children Catherine (Scott), Liz (Ryan) and Jon (Janice). He is fondly remembered by close friends Pat and Bob McCoullough and family, Nancy Reynolds and remaining members of his French Canadian family in Quebec city.
Rollie weathered the storms of life with an unwavering smile and positive attitude. He loved life and laughter and shared his unbounding optimist, generosity and joy with all those who were lucky enough to know him. An avid storyteller, Rollie could regal his listeners for hours with tales of courage, loyalty and friendship.
In his younger years he enjoyed skiing, skating, golfing and bowling. He continued bowling weekly into his 90’s with a group of friends. He was a wonderfully present grandfather who attended plays, swim meets, graduations, family gatherings and any important event.
On the morning of February 18th, he passed away peacefully in his room at Trillium Care. Although our hearts break at his loss, we rejoice at having shared in his company for as long as we did. He will live on forever in the hearts and memories of those who loved and knew him well.
The family welcomes donations to the Salvation Army as an expression of sympathy in lieu of flowers. A private burial and celebration of life for close family and friends will be held at a later date.
