It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gilbert Laporte on March 27th, 2024.
Gilbert, or Gil as he was often called, was a pillar in the older St. Vital area. He was born, raised, attended school, started his hair salon business, raised his family, and lived his entire life in St. Vital. Not that he was unaware of world events, but what mattered most to him was the people in his community. This led to a string of long-time relationships spanning decades with his buddies. Gilbert was a kind and gentle soul who accepted other’s imperfections because he was humbly aware of his own. Socially, he could easily adapt to changes in plans and allow others to take the lead which made him a great member of any group. In the technological era, Gilbert remained “old school” preferring to visit others in-person and chat about their daily lives.
Gilbert, after attending Red River College, courageously started his own hair salon business, where else but in St. Vital. His business kept him connected to his friends and community members keeping him well-informed of how others are doing, listening to advice, and hearing about the best deals out there! He was still cutting hair at age seventy-five, before his health required greater attention.
Gilbert enjoyed socializing with his friends, especially over playing of games. He was an avid golfer, almost every Thursday, which was one of the few activities that took him out of St. Vital. Although he did do a lot of camping when raising his young family. Playing pool, and in tournaments with his buddies, became an event that happened throughout the year. Social events brought him to another favorite activity which was food. Gilbert would try every type of food placed in front of him, and seconds and thirds was not uncommon. A great guest for any host!
Gilbert cherished raising his two sons and his influence upon their lives resulted in his two boys having the same passions as their father. From riding motorcycles, collecting coins, listening to music, or golfing. Gilbert was very patient when instructing others.
Gilbert will be sadly missed by his partner Leslie, his sons Michael (Tracey) and Darrell (Michelle), his stepsons Euan and Beau (Joanne), grandchildren Ashley, Sean, and Liam, siblings Louise (Eddie), Roland (Diane), and Yvonne (Brian), and step-grandchildren Ryker and Jude, nephews, and nieces.
Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held on April 25th, 2024 from 1:00-4:00pm at the Travelodge, 20 Alpine Ave in Winnipeg, MB
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Gil’s memory to Cancer Care Manitoba Foundation
