It is with broken hearts and profound sadness that the family of Simon Ouellet share his passing on May 22nd after a brief illness, in his 65th year. Simon leaves behind his soul-mate and best friend, Betty Calic. His two stepdaughters, Andrea (Jeremy wide-right), and Carly. Three grandchildren; Maddox, Gavin and Papa Simon to Journey. Simon also held a special place in his heart for his fur-babies, those that have gone before him and the those that miss him dearly.

Born in Shawinigan Quebec, January 19th, 1960. Preceded by his mother Diane Carriere, father Jacques Ouellet and brother Pierre-Andre. He also leaves behind several cousins and close friends.

Simon grew up in Montreal where he met his first love of sport – baseball. An avid Montreal Expo fan, Simon would recall games he attended as a child and always held onto the belief of the Expos returning one day. Later his sport passion turned to curling. Along with playing at a competitive level, Simon shared his dedication to the sport through coaching, mentorship and advocacy earning him a National Finalist and Ontario Winner – 2011 Volunteer of the Year Award, issued by the Canadian Curling Association.

Simon graduated from the University of Ottawa; B. Com(honors) Human Resources and Labour Relations in 1983. He had an extremely successful career spanning over 40 years. One of his major accomplishments was that Simon Ouellet became the first French Canadian President and Chair of the Board of HRPAO (as it was then known). Professionally Simon was a bilingual strategic human resources and labour relations professional. His expertise spanned both the private and public sectors in Canada and the United States. Simon was an accomplished international and local speaker and was a published author on various human resources topics. In 2002, Simon was awarded Honourary Life Membership.

Simon had an endless passion for life a “joie de vivre” that was infectious, but nothing shone through more than his culinary talents. His special dinner parties were the envy of all. Those that have had the opportunity to partake were never left disappointed or hungry.

As per Simon’s wishes cremation has taken place.

We will be gathering to share our memories, our stories, to laugh, to cry and to remember a remarkable person. Details of Simon’s Celebration of Life to follow.

In lieu of flowers please; Give curling a try or help/volunteer at your curling club. Cheer for a baseball, hockey or football team without reservations or appologies. Savour good food, good wine and good company. Donate to any animal rescue or pet adoption agency.

To share a memory or send a condolence gift, please visit the Official Obituary of Simon Ouellet hosted by P.X. Dermody Funeral Homes.