ROBICHEAU

Cecelia Sephonia Robicheau (née Patton) of Rimbey, Alberta passed away peacefully at the Rimbey Hospital and Care Centre on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at the age of 84 years.

Cecelia was born in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta to Francis “Frank” and Eleane (née Blair) Patton on September 27, 1939.  She was the second child born in the family of seven children.  Cecelia was united in marriage to John Benjamin “Ben” Robicheau in 1958.  They moved to Red Deer, Alberta, and together raised their three boys. 

Cecelia joined the Women of the Moose Lodge, Red Deer Chapter 1460 on March 10, 1963.  She earned the highest achievement of her College of Regents, as well as her Star Recorder Degree.  Cecelia was a very proud 61 year member, being honoured with a lifetime membership. 

Known for her meticulous work ethic as an executive housekeeper at Michener Centre, in addition to being independently contracted throughout Red Deer, Cecelia was never afraid to get her hands dirty.  Quite often she could also be found in her garden tending to her flowers, growing food from the “good, old earth”, and picking berries throughout Central Alberta.  She taught others not to waste, as scraps are fertilizer for growth. 

Cecelia’s most treasured moments were when she was surrounded by her friends and family.  She lived for making a connection with others; and she thoroughly loved a good conversation, a chance to share stories, and a tasty cup of tea.

A good story was told by a traveller, and travel was something Cecelia also loved to do!  She took in the sights of Canada from west to east, never turning down a road trip.  Cecelia believed everyone needed culture in their lives.  She once said, “If you don’t have the money to travel the world, then learn about it from the people around you.” 

Cecelia never wanted to forget a moment, a face, a date, or a name; capturing many of those special memories on video or on a notepad.  She also adored the Royal Family, and in her downtime when she needed to unwind, you would find her engulfed in a book.  Whenever she was faced with adversity, Cecelia would never give up.  She was a fighter, as many would know her.  She walked through life with the strength of ten men, and was never afraid of a challenge.  Yet, under this lion was a gentle cub that always wanted to explore, learn, and grow. 

Her remarkable footprints will forever be missed.

Cecelia is survived by her eldest son John (Debbie) Robicheau; her cherished grandchildren Sarah Robicheau, Amanda (Michael Henry) Robicheau-Henry, Luke Robicheau, and Mathew Robicheau; as well as her treasured great-grandchildren Kayla Robicheau, Jordyn Henry, and James Robicheau.  She is also survived by her siblings John (Sheirly) Patton, Dorthy May Patton, and Victor (Rosella Buhr) Patton.

Cecelia was predeceased by her husband Ben; two sons Victor and David; and her sisters Frances Hanzle, Yvonne Chaytors, and Annette Gallant.

A Family Graveside Service will be held at the Queen’s Park Cemetery in Calgary, where Cecelia will be laid to rest on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at 1:00 p.m.  A community Celebration of her Life will take place at a later date. 

If desired, memorial donations in Cecelia’s memory may be made directly to the Make-A-Wish Foundation – Northern Alberta Chapter, 16007 – 118 Avenue NW, Edmonton, Alberta  T5V 1C7 (www.makeawish.ca).  Thoughts and messages to the family may be shared through the condolence area located at the bottom of this page. 

Service and Burial Arrangements for the Late Cecelia Sephonia Robicheau entrusted to the care of