Obituary of Renee Wysynski

Renee Wysynski, a true matriarch and guiding light to many, peacefully passed away at the Sault Area Hospital on Friday, January 9, 2026, at the age of 75.

Renee was the beloved wife, best friend, and soulmate of Paul Wysynski for 48 wonderful years, a loving and devoted mother of Shawn and Steven Wysynski, and cherished grandmother of Nicole and Alyssa Wysynski.

Renee was a highly respected teacher and principal with the Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board for over 30 years, inspiring students and teachers alike. Her devotion to education was a guiding force that at one moment led her to filling the role of principal of multiple schools simultaneously. 

After her retirement 26 years ago, alongside her number one travel companion, Paul, Renee discovered the world by water, enjoying cruises that took her to many exotic places. Along with the sea air, the thrill of adventure, and laughter among friends old and new, Renee delighted in an opportunity to meet a sloth and share photos and stories with her family. Renee absolutely knew how to live out her retirement to its fullest. 

Known affectionately as “Momma Renee” to her billet Soo Greyhound sons, Renee and Paul opened their home to more than 25 Soo Greyhounds over the years. The “hockey boys” kept Renee and Paul busy, mostly with laughter and frequent visits to the Memorial Gardens and brought a lot of joy into their home.

Renee’s faith was central to her life, and she enjoyed sharing it with her loved ones. Saturday evening mass was a pillar, and through volunteering and connecting with the community, Renee found a cherished friendship in Father Alex. 

Renee was the daughter of the late Joseph Bourgond (Eunice) and the late Violette (Campeau) Hatch (late Verne) and loving sister of Gregory Bourgond (Debby), the late Barry Bourgond, the late Lanette Wakerley, and Suzanne Bloye (Cory).

Renee was the daughter-in-law of the late John and Mary Wysynski, dear sister-in-law of the late Lilyanne Wysynski, late Rosemarie Bradshaw (late George), late Ronald Wysynski (Jennie), late Wayne Wysynski and the late Lori Grant (late Dave).

She will be fondly remembered as a very special aunt to Mikala Holmes (Tyler), Stephan Bourgond, Jody Mott (Ken), Chris Wysynski (Kris), Greg Wysynski (Claudia), Jamie Wysynski (Kela), Monique Smith (Chad), Amber Wackerle, Tarah Wackerie, Ashlee Wackerie, Angela Williams, and Chris Bourgond. 

Before passing, Renee was able to welcome with extreme pride the newly arrived twins, Josie Anne Renee Holmes and Aubrey Mae Holmes, daughters of Mikala and Tyler Holmes. Never will a day pass without a reminder of the strength and support Renee showed Mikala through her pregnancy journey.  

Renee will also be fondly remembered by her great-nieces, great-nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, friends and her best friend, Debbie Campbell, a person who was by Renee’s side through 58 years of friendship. 

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at Sault Area Hospital, the nursing team of 3C, and Dr. Bowen for the exceptional care shown to Renee.

Friends and family are invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Memorial Mass to be held at St. Gerard Majella Church (211 Pentagon Blvd) on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with Father Alex Saurianthadathil officiating. Memorial donations to the Algoma Residential Community Hospice (ARCH) or St. Gerard Majella Church would be greatly appreciated.

Renee “Peaceful” In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
– Proverbs 3:4