Joseph (Robert) and Catherine (Myrtle) deMeulles

In Loving Memory of:

Joseph (Robert) deMeulles

Catherine (Myrtle) deMeulles

Joseph (Robert) deMeulles was born September 28, 1936, and passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 18, 2018. “Bobby” as he was known to his friends and family was born in The Pas, Manitoba then moved to Churchill, Manitoba with his parents as a child. He attended school in Churchill and started work with the National Harbours Board when he was a young man. He was an incredible Millwright, Machinist, Tinsmith, and Welder and could build and fix almost anything. He retired after 60 years of service. He worked tirelessly for his family and for the community of Churchill. Bob is best known for his love of music and playing his “Gretsch” at the Legion with his dear friends and his late brother Dan deMeulles. His band the Rhythm Makers is remembered to this day for the joy they brought to the community through music.

Catherine (Myrtle) deMeulles was born June 16, 1941, and passed away peacefully in her sleep on October 22, 2018. Myrtle grew up on the trap line in Cumberland House, Saskatchewan.  She moved to Churchill in 1956. Myrtle was a volunteer with countless community events in Churchill and was a member of the Manitoba Métis Federation for more than 40 years. Myrtle was known as a leader and a respected Elder. She and Bob were the first to start the Churchill Community Christmas Events back in the 80’s. She has been a valued storyteller for the past 25 years helping to keep the Métis culture alive. After raising her family, she created her own Art with caribou hair known as Myrtle’s Caribou Hair Sculptures. Her works of art, which celebrate scenes of the north, have been sold around the world. Myrtle was recognized with the Order of Manitoba and the Order of the Métis Nation.

Robert and Myrtle deMeulles were loved by the Community of Churchill and this is a sad time for them and the family. Robert and Myrtle passed away just four days of each other and are together now for eternity. A true love story. Their love for each other is a beacon to those who knew them and how they always overcame struggles in their life. Their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were their pride and joy. Robert and Myrtle will be buried together as they wished.  Heaven is their home now and it will be filled with their love of song and music. They instilled in us all great wisdom, understanding and respect. They will be missed dearly by their family and numerous friends. They will forever be in our hearts.

They leave behind their Family:  Gisele deMeulles (Joseph Muise) of Thompson, Catherine deMeulles “Katie” of Churchill, Desiree deMeulles (Troy Schaefer) of Dauphin, Michelle deMeulles Larson (Brian Larson) of Edmonton, Rene deMeulles (Jodi Howard) of Edmonton. There grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Alexandria Routhier- Pardoski (Chad Pardoski) with children Tobie, Xavier, Xander and soon to be “Charlie” of Dauphin, Samantha Routhier of Edmonton and Freddy Routhier of Thompson. Evan Reeve (Renee Wood) of Winnipeg, Zoey Kaminsky (Randy Parenteau) with children Daisy and Thane of Dauphin;  Danielle deMeulles, Jack deMeulles and Drew Howard-Chriss of Edmonton.

Myrtle leaves behind her three siblings Robert McAuley, Leo McAuley and Rosina MacCaulay and numerous family members of the McAuley Clan.

Robert leaves behind Dale (Rhonda) deMeulles, Laurie (Herb) Remple, Angie (Joel) Smith and their mother Colleen deMeulles. Melissa (Matt) deMeulles –Wolfe, Michael deMeulles and Sean deMeulles.