Guy J. R. Boucher

Boucher, Guy J.R. Cdr (Retired), OMM, CD, BA (Pol Sc) was born in Noranda, PQ, Jan 18, 1937 to the late Aime Boucher and Simone (Sylvain) Boucher. Guy spent his early years in northern Ontario and his teens in Aylmer, PQ. Surrounded by his beloved family, Guy died on Sept. 21, 2018 at age 81.

Guy proudly served in the RCN for 39 years, joining at 17 as an Officer Cadet in the newly formed HMCS Venture in Victoria, BC. His career included 18 years of sea time in many ships, including HMCS Cayuga, Ottawa, Jonquiere, Crescent, Assiniboine, Nipigon and Skeena, visiting ports from Australia, to Saigon to Iceland. He also held various shore appointments, staff officer at CMR St. Jean, Training Group Pacific, Victoria BC and Command Coordinator Official Languages in Halifax. In 1979, Guy was appointed to the Order of Military Merit.

Guy was athletic, health conscious and strong willed and thus was able to overcome near fatal injuries nearly 40 yrs ago. While convalescing he completed his university degree and returned to active duty. He was promoted and attained the highlight of his career as Commanding Officer of HMCS Skeena in 1980 to 1983.

Guy was a devout Catholic, a member of the Knights of Columbus, an active parishioner of the former Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish. He gave generously of his time, treasure and talent. He was seldom idle, building a boat, teaching himself to play piano or cheering on the Habs.

Surviving are his wife of 60 years, Helen (Mrazik), his five children, and eight grandchildren: Eric (Heather) Paul and Katherine, Sooke, BC; Mark (Donna) and Cole, Ottawa; Diane (Andrew) Mitchell, Geoffrey, Jack and Jane, Petite Riviere, NS; Karl, Broad Cove, NS; Therese (Stephen) and Jesse, Sussex, NB; as well as his brother, Carol (Helene) and sister, Huguette (Gilles) of Gatineau, PQ, and many nieces and nephews.

After suffering a stroke in Florida, Guy was cared for by staff at QEII, Victoria General, Ocean View and St. Vincent's Nursing Home. The therapy and care received made his life as comfortable as possible and he remained in good humour for his five years in care. Friends who visited regularly and assisted with therapy gave Guy and his family support which was much appreciated.

St. Vincent's Nursing Home staff became like family. Guy was able to assist at Mass four times weekly and thus was cared for both spiritually and physically. Guy's family offers profound thanks to all who helped with this chapter of his journey.

Visitation will take place on Friday. Sept. 28 from 5-8 pm at J. A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Dr., Halifax. A funeral liturgy will take place at J. A. Snow Funeral Home at 10:30 am on Saturday, Sept. 29 with reception to follow.

For those who wish, a donation to St. Vincent's Nursing Home Pastoral Care, or St. Vincent dePaul Society will be appreciated.