January 9, 1949 – April 26, 2025
The family of Claudette Gaudry sadly announces her passing on April 26, 2025, in her 76th year.
Claudette was the eldest daughter of Paulette and Roland Gaudry. She will be lovingly missed by her husband, Dennis Felbel, and son, Lucas. She is survived by her sister, Maureen O’Donnell, and many dear relatives by both blood and marriage.
Fondly known as “Mumm” to her close circle, Claudette lived a vibrant and full life.
Born on January 9, 1949, and raised in St. Boniface, Claudette often reminded her lifelong partner and husband, Dennis—born just one day earlier on January 8, 1949—that she was not only younger but brighter, having skipped a grade and completed her first university degree a year ahead of him. He gladly admits: she was indeed both.
Claudette’s strong work ethic began early, working through her teen years. She proudly held positions at both the historic Hudson’s Bay and Eaton’s stores in downtown Winnipeg—often walking between them for back-to-back shifts.
After earning her BA from the University of Manitoba, her professional career began in Churchill, MB, as a child care worker. There, she developed a deep appreciation for the North and a passion for mentoring Inuit teenagers. She learned Inuktut, coached volleyball at the Arctic Winter Games in Whitehorse, and left a lasting impact on the community.
It was in Churchill that she earned her affectionate nickname, “Mumm.” Known for her love of Mumm Champagne, she was often seen with a bottle of bubbly in hand. The name stuck, especially as she “mothered” a lively group of all-male season ticket holders at Winnipeg Blue Bombers and WHA Jets games—a role she took on with both humor and heart.
Claudette’s career journey continued with a management role at The Bay on Portage Avenue. There, she managed the fabric department and assisted in the China department, fueling her lifelong passions for textiles, fashion, and fine glassware.
In mid-life, Claudette made a bold and successful transition into education, earning a teaching degree and embracing the world of French Immersion instruction. She found joy especially in teaching Grade 4 students, where curiosity still ran high. She primarily taught in the St. James School Division, where her creativity and dedication left a lasting mark.
But Claudette’s world extended far beyond the classroom.
She cherished her time at Island Beach on Lake Winnipeg, where summers were filled with tennis, boating, canoe trips on July long weekends, and crackling campfires. Canoeing “the big muddy water” was a summer highlight. Her zest for life continued with early morning swims at the Y, flamenco dance lessons, and a deep appreciation for local theatre and contemporary dance.
Adventures were plentiful—motorcycling to Vancouver and around Lake of the Woods, exploring the Caribbean, Mexico, France, Florida, and the American Southwest. Yet, winter also meant hockey season, and Claudette was the ultimate hockey mom.
Anyone from a hockey family knows the dedication required. Claudette was there through every stage—AA, high school, junior, and eventually university hockey at Arizona State University—supporting Lucas, her “special son,” every step of the way. Lucas, in turn, gave that love and support right back, a bond that speaks volumes.
One of Claudette’s greatest joys was her role as a homemaker. She designed the family home’s layout, delighted in preparing gourmet meals, and was known for her signature Caesar salad and decadent desserts. Holidays and celebrations were made brighter by her thoughtful, professionally-wrapped gifts—books and learning materials were frequent favorites. And she always kept a secret stash of chocolate, chips, and treats for unexpected guests (safely hidden from Dennis and Lucas).
Claudette is deeply loved and will be dearly missed by her family and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the fall of 2025.
9 thoughts on “Claudette Gaudry”
My sincere condolences for your loss. Claudette was a classmate at St.-Joseph’s Academy and I had the joy of reconnecting years with her later at our school reunions. I am so impressed with all that she accomplished in her lifetime. She will be missed.
Helene McCarthy
Claudette was a very beautiful person inside and out. Many years ago when I needed surgery she happily drove me to St. B. I have always remembered her care and concern and appreciated her help. She had a very great love for her family. Claudette will truly missed. A person who really made a difference. Our condolences to Denis and Lucas.
Richard,Kara,Garrett and Patrick Held.
I am so saddened to hear of Claudette’s passing. I have fond memories of her teaching years at École Robert Browning. Claudette was a hard working, dedicated and loyal colleague. She took on teaching term positions over the years. I share with my former colleagues, the the opportunity to have enjoyed our staffroom lunches together, hearing colourful and entertaining family stories… from Christmas dinners with the relatives, the family garage that somehow housed 5 cars, (one parked horizontally) Lucas’ many successes, and her intolerance to some noises, leaving Dennis to do all the hoovering! She lived a wonderful life, and has left many of us with fond memories.
We are so very very sorry for your loss Dennis and Lucas. We met this fabulous family when we first moved into Winnipeg 25 years ago, Rylan (our son) and Lucas met at Bairdmore school and quickly became good friends. We also met them when Lucas and Rylan played hockey together and We also met the family at lake Winnipeg! Claudette was an amazing lady and she will be missed greatly! Our heartfelt condolences to you Dennis, Lucas and all family. Sincerely Russ, Delaine and Rylan Manary
I met Claudette as a pre-teen young girl many years ago now. I will forever think of her a the Queen Cheerleader for everyone. It did not matter if she knew you forever or 5 minutes…she would always ask and listen to what was happening in your life and cheer you on. Leaving you always better for having a conversation with her.
We last saw Claudette last summer at a birthday party and I remember her sitting with my 3 girls asking questions about what they were doing now and so eager to listen. Always with a smile on her face and so much zest for life.
We are truly blessed to have had her apart of our lives. 💕
Dennis and Lucas very sorry for your loss. Claudette was a very gracious and loving person
We are so very sorry to hear of Claudette’s passing. One of very dearest friends and we have so many memories of parties at Island Beach, Grey Cup in Vancouver and travels on that rented school bus . Many
Happy hour celebrations in Lakeshore Heights with family and friends. Claudette was a master chef, story teller, and designer . We feel a terrible loss in our hearts but still feel her spirit near by in the wind and waves. Until we meet again dear Claudette. Our love Roger and Audrey
I’m glad she was able to make it to my 75th last May..still have one last shot left in the bottle with the Mexican hat..gonna keep that for sure. Her and Dave upstairs now..that’ll be fun times. Roger
Sending thoughts and prayers to Maureen and family.
I was saddened to hear of your loss. I have fond memories of the Gaudry family when we all lived on Tissot Street.
Sincere condolences.
I
Maureen and family.
I am so sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of Claudette and the Gaudry family on Tissot Street.
You were the first family to get a TV and Claudette would invite the girls over for many fun times.
Sending you prayers at this difficult time.