Villeneuve, Larry Edward
With profound sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of Larry Edward Villeneuve of Kenora Ontario on March 1st, 2023 at the age of 65.

In Larry’s early years, his family moved with his dad’s job (Ottawa, Hamilton, Cornwall, Montreal, Quebec City, Hamilton) and then his own career carried him further on down the road to London, Hamilton, Burlington, Welland, Orillia and then Kenora. 

Larry’s busy life seemed to always be grounded through his love of sports.  Growing up he was an outstanding athlete, playing and excelling at hockey, baseball, soccer, golf, and racquetball and with him most recently taking on pickleball and darts.  Larry was at the same time, a passionate and dedicated sports fan - following all things sport - hockey, baseball, football (CFL and NFL), basketball, curling, golf and tennis - a true avid sports fanatic.  “So, what’s going on in Sports today?” was how Larry would often say hello!

Larry eagerly learned cooking & baking from his mom and gained his fishing expertise from his dad.  He tackled any recipe head on and could use any tackle in the water with great success.  His cheesecakes were second to none and so were his fishing stories.  Larry’s pride and joy was his 26ft Sea Ray that he proudly and effortlessly captained, navigated and most thoroughly enjoyed while cruising on lakes in Orillia and on Lake of the Woods in Kenora.  Often through necessity, Larry developed into a true MacGyver and could fix anything that needed it. His wit was quick and his memory remarkable. Larry was a proud member and supporter of the Orillia unit 400 Army Navy Air Force Veterans and the Kenora Legion #12.  

Larry’s love of music developed during his high school years in the summer when working for Christie Conservation Area  - teaching himself guitar.  Nothing like going “on tour” with his favourite music playing.  He later developed a keen interest in Karaoke and on Saturday evenings could often be heard crooning out Frank Sinatra (“My Way”) and other classic tunes.

Larry’s career over the years included - International Harvester (Inventory Supervisor), Stanley Tools (Traffic & Distribution Manager), Petro Canada Refinery (Operator & Fire Crew member) , Casino Rama (Dealer), The Zoo Bar & Grill (Manager) and Northern Installations (Sole Proprietor).  While Larry (officially) retired in 2017, not being one to sit still for very long, soon after, happily accepted work offers from Days Inn and then Canadian Tire in Kenora.

Larry was a true example of a real human being.  For Larry, his family and friends always came first without hesitation.  Larry was kind, generous and a ton of fun to be around.  Larry valued the importance of laughter and was always willing to share a joke or a story or two with anyone he crossed paths with. Larry easily made friends wherever he went and will be missed and is fondly remembered for his sense of humour, his fun-loving demeanor, hard working ethics, and his wittiness.  Larry was a  truly great guy with a heart of gold.  

Larry was predeceased by his parents Arthur and Norma, brother Donald and nephew John (both in infancy).  Larry is survived by the love of his life, Jane, by his beloved son and best friend Andrew (Dana), son Matthew and daughter Krysten and their families. Loving grandpa to Braylon and Emmett. Proud uncle to Rhiannon, James (Chelsea), Matthew, Brigitte, Alex, Simeon, London, Paige (Joey), Ashton and great uncle to Adler and Delilah. Dear brother of Thomas (Sue), JoAnne (Colin), Sandra-Lee (Ray), Perry (Mercedes) and Michel (Jennifer).  Larry will be sadly missed by his devoted toy poodle - Precious and his fur-niece Zoe will miss her Uncle Treat.

A Celebration of Life in both Orillia and Kenora will take place at a later date.   We look forward to your best Larry stories, wearing your favourite team attire and hat as we honour the legacy he has left behind.  In Larry’s memory, please be sure to raise a large double double or a cold Canadian.  

If you so wish, please consider a donation or tribute to Canadian Tire’s Jump Start program or to a charity of your choice in Larry’s memory.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mundellfuneralhome.com or KenoraOnline.