Obituary of Daniel Arthur LeClair

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Daniel at the Sault Area Hospital on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. He was kind, selfless, loving, easygoing and knew exactly when to crack a joke.  

Daniel was born in McKerrow on November 28, 1949, the 4th of Lawrence and Ida LeClair’s 11 children. Beloved husband of Hélène (nee Lavigne) for 47 years. Devoted father of Timothy (Catherine Schwartz) and Carey (Tyler Straight). Proud Pépère of Adeleine, Lukas and Astrid. Brother of Fred (Pat) of Ottawa, Ted (Willa), Linda (late Bernie Cocchiola), Denise (Rick Bona) of Sudbury, late Armand (Brenda), late Rene (Theresa), Rolly (Gwen) of McKerrow, late Maurice, Marcel (Kelly) and Larry both of McKerrow. Daniel will be fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Dan was devoted to his family. As a millwright at Algoma Steel since 1979, he would work 12-hour shifts and come home ready to tackle the next thing that needed to be put to rights. He was always fixing something, whether it was a broken piece of machinery, a toaster oven, or a toy. He was also always building something: a grandfather clock, a chessboard, a pantry, a cupola. Daniel gave himself fully to his family throughout his life. He was even more present after receiving a heart transplant in 2014. He showed his loved ones every day how much they meant to him through phone calls, video chats, goodnight texts, visits, sharing his wisdom and help.

He was a proud Pépère, happiest relaxing around the house with Hélène, doing woodworking or watching Oak Island. He is already and will always be deeply missed.

Special thanks and love to all of the Heart Transplant Team at Toronto General Hospital: Dr. Ross, Dr. Billia, Dr. McDonald, our Transplant Coordinator, Stella, who guided us through so many challenges. Your compassion, care and dedication will never be forgotten. Thanks to Natalie and Andrea on 3C at the Sault Area Hospital for their wonderful support and care during Dan’s recent illness.

A Celebration of Dan’s life will be announced in the spring of 2023. Memorial donations in Daniel’s name to the Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, Toronto General Hospital or the Princess Margaret Hospital would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758).