In loving memory of our dear mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, Pierrette (Pete) Yolande Black (nee Héon), who peacefully departed this world on Friday, October 20th, at the remarkable age of 98, reuniting with her beloved husband, Leonard, and other cherished family members. She passed on serenely, holding her son's hand, with her favorite music in the background. Pierrette leaves behind a legacy of love, survived by her three children and their spouses (Gary (Liz), Patricia (Dany), and Sue (Larry), three adoring grandchildren (Darryl, Chelsea (Oliver), and Chase (Seb)), a great-grandchild (Harrison), four remaining siblings (Françoise, François, Jeanine, and Jeanne d'Arc), and numerous nieces and nephews.
Born and raised in Shawinigan Falls, Québec, in an extended family with ten siblings, many aunts, uncles, and cousins, Pierrette's life was marked by her vivacious spirit and her love for activities such as skiing/tennis and participating in L'Ordre de bon temps (The Order of Good Cheer), a youth movement (1943 – 1953) dedicated to promote cultural popular activities inspired by French-Canadian traditions with song and dances, which became for Pete, as a very enthusiastic and constant member of this group, the genesis of her passion for dance and music that she shared with her friends.
In her early 20s, Pierrette made a courageous journey to Toronto to learn English and earn money to send back to her mother and to help with her youngest sister’s tuition. There she met and married Len, embarking on a lifelong adventure together. She took on many jobs capping her career at J. Walter Thompson, a leading advertising agency, working her way up to head a department during the iconic era of "Mad Men." Her dedication to her job continued until her retirement, after which she and Dad relocated to Orillia to be nearer to their boat, make new friends, and start a fresh chapter in their lives. Despite the distance, she never lost touch with her family, travelling back home frequently, hitch hiking in the earlier years, to visit her family and her first daughter, Patricia, who was brought up by her cousin and husband, Thérèse and Albert.
Pete's passions were dance and music, and she was the life of every party. Her infectious energy and warm smile encouraged everyone to join in the dance, and she could turn any place with music into a dance floor. For years, she shared her love for dance, teaching line dancing and dancing herself until her 97th year. Her musical talent shone through as she sang along with musicians, played the spoons, bongos, and the piano. Together with Len, Pierrette shared her knowledge by teaching the Power Squadron and navigation course, forging friendships with fellow boat enthusiasts, and embarking on adventures along the Severn River Waterway.
Pierrette always took pride in her appearance, impeccably dressed with an array of jewelry, hats, and high heels, which she reluctantly left behind on her boating and camping excursions. Her winters in Florida were marked by cherished friendships and warm connections with others. She was known for her compassionate, caring, and vibrant personality, bringing joy and love to everyone she met.
Pierrette was a sentimental collector, especially in keeping every letter and card she ever received, including the envelopes. She collected stamps and loved to correspond with her many friends and family as much as possible. Pierrette's absence leaves an immeasurable void, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, but we all take comfort in the hope that, wherever she is, she is dancing still.
Her family will be holding a Celebration of life in the spring of 2024, the date has not been determined as yet but will most likely be in April, in Orillia, and we will let everyone know.
Arrangements entrusted to the Doolittle Chapel of Carson Funeral Homes, 54 Coldwater St. E., Orillia (705) 326-3595.
Condolences may be shared at www.CarsonFuneralHomes.com