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ULYSSES JOSEPH AUREAL DESROCHERS Obituary pic ULYSSES JOSEPH AUREAL DESROCHERS Obituary pic

ULYSSES JOSEPH AUREAL DESROCHERS

Date of Passing: Mar 03, 2024

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ULYSSES JOSEPH AUREAL DESROCHERS

1941-2024


Ulysses Desrochers passed away at Victoria Hospital peacefully on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at the age of 83 with family at his side. He is survived by his wife Della (Novog), sons Jean-Paul (Farida), Dennis (Kim) and sister Illene (Damase). Ulysses was predeceased by his parents Alexandre and Auréa (Beaudry) Desrochers, brothers Don (Myrna), Hubert and sisters Leona, Brigitte (Gil), Carole (Roger) and brothers-in-law Damase Dufresne, Roger Lachance, Ray, and Paul Novog. Left to forever cherish his memories are Crimson (Vincent), Axel, Enzo, Luna, Nicholas (Emily)” and many nephews, nieces, cousins, and his dear friend Euclid along with many former co-workers, neighbours, and friends.



Ulysses was born into a farming family in St. Eustache, Manitoba where he developed his lifelong attachment to the land and hard work. He set off to university attending St. Paul's College pursuing a degree in Social Work. Ulysses began his career in 1961 with Child and Family Services of Manitoba. He earned his Master of Social Work in 1964 from the University of Manitoba. It was in this period he met Della, and they married on February 9, 1964. Ulysses joined MacDonald Youth Services (MYS) as the first Clinical Case Manager in 1969. He became the Executive Director of MYS in 1980, a position he held until his retirement in 2002. Retirement was short lived as he in turn immersed himself into expanding and modernizing the farm which celebrated its centennial in 2019. In addition, he always maintained a passion for antique cars. From helping restore his father and mother's first automobile, a 1929 Model A Ford, on through to his Triumph, Chevy Corvair pickup and others, he always enjoyed tinkering on them and sharing them with all.



Ulysses, with his wife Della enjoyed hosting family and friends over the years. From hosting in their home in Windsor Park, later St. Boniface and of course barbecues at the farm, he always enjoyed his time amongst family and friends. Though diagnosed later in life with Parkinson's disease, he nonetheless continued making the most of life which served as an inspiration to those close to him. Thanks to the caring staff at Sturgeon Creek and the home care workers who enabled him to live each day to the fullest. A special thanks to all the staff at the Centre de Santé, and in particular Doctor Francois who helped throughout the years and Doctor Fowler who was there caring for dad in the end. We would be remiss not to mention the compassion and assistance in the final days from Father Augustine Ezediniru and the medical staff at the Victoria General Hospital. A service and internment will be planned at a later date for family and friends.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 09, 2024, Mar 09, 2024

Condolences & Memories (9 entries)

  • Sorry Della to hear about the passing of Ulysses. He was such a kind man and will be missed by many. He took good care of my mom when she was in need of some help. Please keep me in the loop as to when the services will be held. Fern Rivard - Posted by: Fern Rivard (cousin) on: Mar 19, 2024

  • Della, JP and Denis, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your husband and father from Uncle Euclid. I have many fond memories growing up visiting your family. JP and Denis I am sorry we lost touch but your parents would always keep myself and my family updated. I enjoyed keeping in touch with both of you Della as I grew into adulthood and then later with my own family. I regret as my life got busier that I did not keep in touch I however thought of you both often. My deepest condolences and prayers as you navigate this difficult time. Cindy Loftus (Bach). - Posted by: Cindy Loftus (Bach) (Family ) on: Mar 15, 2024

  • We offer our condolences to the Desrochers family, especially Della, Jean-Paul and Dennis. “Frenchie” was a warm, forthright guy with a laid back sense of humour and highly respected by his circle. He will be missed and I regret losing contact with him in a long while. Rest in peace, friend - Posted by: Ernest Masiowski (Colleague/Friend) on: Mar 13, 2024

  • Our condolences to the Desrochers family, especially Della. “Frenchie” was a special person, caring and forthright, with a beautiful, laid back involvement with his circle. He will be missed and I regret the loss of contact with him. Rest in peace, friend. - Posted by: Ernest Masiowski (Colleague/Friend) on: Mar 13, 2024

  • So very sorry to hear of Ulysses' passing. Visited with him in October 2023 at his retirement home, was a very kind and patient man, even with the struggle of his affliction, he never complained. Always concerned how everyone else was, always had time for family and friends. so considerate. Deepest condolences to his family, From his cousins Anita Simpson, Evelyn Dowhaniuk and May Laramee. - Posted by: anita simpson (cousin) on: Mar 13, 2024

  • I was so sorry to hear about the passing of Ulysses. I worked for Ulysses many years ago when he was the executive director of MYS and I ran one his many programs. He was such a kind and patient man. I learned so much from him and admired his commitment to youth. He treated everyone as a peer and his genuine kindness was so rare. - Posted by: Bruce Hardy (co-worker) on: Mar 09, 2024

  • My condolences to the family. Rest in peace Ulysses. Please let me know when the service will be held. - Posted by: Gil Verville (Brigitte`s long time partner.) on: Mar 09, 2024

  • Dear Della: my most sincere condolences to you and your family. Your life with your husband was one "chapter" in your life. Now you must keep writing your "book/life story" with courage, knowing you are surrounded by loving family and friends. Prayers coming your way at this challenging time. Annette. - Posted by: Annette Bonomo (friend) on: Mar 09, 2024

  • Deepest condolences to the family. Ulysse and my brother were very good friend. Rest in Peace. William passed away 3 yr ago. - Posted by: Maria Wallack (Tobie McKay daughter) (friend) on: Mar 09, 2024

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