GEORGE RAJOTTE

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GEORGE RAJOTTE

1944 - 2026

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of George Rajotte, loving father, grandfather, husband, brother, friend and proud Winnipegger.

George was proud of his Franco-Manitoban roots. He grew up in St. Jean Baptiste before moving to Winnipeg at the age of ten, not knowing any English. He often recounted how quickly he learned after settling on Home Street, later relocating to his beloved St. Boniface.

George was a self-made entrepreneur whose work ethic and determination shaped not only his own life, but the lives of many around him. He founded Western Industrial Services Ltd. from humble beginnings. Through grit and an unwavering commitment to doing things the right way, he built a respected company and lasting legacy in the construction industry.

Over the years, he also founded Western Construction Services and bought and sold numerous companies within the construction industry. George was a true entrepreneur. He was driven, resilient, and always looking for the next opportunity to build, grow, and improve.

He was known for his fairness, integrity, and his belief that hard work and honesty mattered above all else.

George had a deep appreciation for the people he worked with. He often said his success was built on the people he worked with “the ones with calluses on their hands,” as he used to say, and he truly meant it. He took great pride in creating opportunities, helping build careers, and supporting those around him both professionally and personally. Many who worked with George grew alongside him, and he valued their loyalty, hard work, dedication, and friendship. He was also widely respected within the construction industry, where his reputation for integrity and straight dealing earned him the respect of employees, colleagues, and competitors alike.

Beyond business, George was generous and community-minded, quietly supporting numerous causes and helping others. He believed in showing up for his work, his family, and his community, and did so consistently throughout his life.

George was also deeply committed to Alcoholics Anonymous, maintaining over 53 years of sobriety. He formed many lasting friendships and served as a sponsor to countless individuals on their journeys to sobriety. His support, guidance, and example changed many lives, and many he supported became close and trusted friends who stood by him over the years.

Above all, George loved his family deeply.

He was first married to June Desmarais, with whom he had three children: Paul, Marc (Shannon), and Monique (Norman). Together, they built a family and shared in the early years of his journey, helping to shape the life he went on to lead. George loved his children deeply and worked tirelessly to ensure they were provided for. He was a very proud “Pépère” to George and Henry and is also remembered by Jaxyn, Brittani, and TJ.

He later married Marie Degagne, and for over 30 years, George was a loving and cherished member of her family. Father figure to Rick and daughter-in-law Dawn; he was lovingly known as “Paca” by his grandchildren, Garret and Marissa. George and Marie shared many happy years together, travelling and spending memorable family time at Falcon Lake and in Palm Springs. He was deeply saddened and a bit lost upon Marie’s passing.

George found love again and married Rosa Derksen. He was like a teenager when he met her, full of joy and excitement. They packed a lot of fun and travel into their time together. He became part of a larger blended family, including Steve, Paige (David), and Cheyenne (Brett), and took great joy in watching their families grow, with grandchildren Slade, Ronin, Jax, and Kane.

He is also survived by his sister Jacqueline and his brother-in-law Luc, with whom he shared a close personal and professional relationship spanning more than 40 years. George and Jackie shared a special bond as the only two siblings, 15 years apart, and she loved him deeply. George was her rock. He was also a cherished uncle to their children, Joel (Jen), Nolin (Kelly), and Evan, and a proud great-uncle to Ben, Lucy, Rylan, Kai, and Norah.

George valued his close professional relationships with Paul Wright, Martin Hak, Myron Klysh, Vic Schroeder, and Glyn Allen, who were not only trusted advisors but lifelong friends.

George had many friends and made them easily. He was a natural charmer; it was often hard to leave any place with him, as everyone wanted a moment with George (or a hug). He made a lasting impression on people with his presence and unmistakable style, always impeccably dressed. He had a quick wit and was a natural storyteller, always ready with an anecdote or a well-timed punchline. George also loved travelling and was always eager for new adventures.

George is predeceased by his mother, Berthe, his father Paul, his former spouses, June and Marie, and his grandson Samuel.

George will be remembered for his sense of humour, tenacity, heart, style, and the deep love he had for those around him. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled: hard work, resilience, humour, generosity, and loyalty.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A service will be held at St. Boniface Cathedral (180 Avenue de la Cathedrale) on Friday, April 17 at 2:00 p.m. officiated by Monseigneur Comeault. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Monseigneur Comeault for his friendship and for leading the service. A come and go reception will follow at the Hotel Fort Garry at 4:00 p.m. All are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba or Diabetes Canada in George’s memory.

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 11, 2026