MATHIEU, Rene

Rene Mathieu passed away peacefully at Water’s Edge Care Community on July 26, 2016, at the age of 96.  Beloved father of Rhonda Stratton and Joe Mathieu (Kim).  Rene will be greatly missed by his grandchildren Richard, Raymond, Savannah and Chelsea, as well as great-grandchildren Victor, Sydney and Austin.  Predeceased by his wife Noreen, son Marc and parents Orphila and Melina Mathieu (nee Michon).  Rene had a long and varied musical career starting with his own radio show in Parry Sound at the age of 19. He then moved to North Bay where he joined Vic Virgili and the Laurentian Valley Boys.  Rene was with the band for over 50 years during which time he sang and played both fiddle and guitar as the band performed in North Bay and all around the surrounding area.  They could be heard on the radio every Saturday night for years, followed by a 10 year run on local television.  The band also backed up every famous musical act that appeared in North Bay during that time, including Faron Young, Webb Pierce and Hank Snow.  Rene was also part of a group of local musicians who donated their time to play at the Golden Age Club, Casselholme and the jail.  He will be remembered as a kind and gentle man.  He always gave of himself without question and will be dearly missed.  A visitation will be held on August 23, 2016 from 1pm to 3pm at McGuinty Funeral Home in North Bay.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the Nipissing Serenity Hospice would be greatly appreciated by the family.  Condolences may be made online at www.mcguintyfuneralhome.com.