Rollande Wellsman
March 20, 1928 to August 25, 2024
Died at the age of 96, after a full life, graciously and resiliently lived. Beloved wife of the late Robert (2010). Predeceased by parents Gerard and Adrienne Bourque, and siblings Fran, Gilles, and Denise. Survived by brother Paul Laurent (Barb). Rollande will be deeply missed by children Susan (Ken), Jim (Trudy), Thom (Flora) and Leisa (Gary), grandchildren Megan, Elizabeth (Lawrence), Jacqueline, Darrell, Thea and Aidan, and great-grandchildren Finn, Oliver, Corbin and Mae.
Originally from Montreal, Rollande’s family settled in Preston when she was two. She then moved to Galt where she and Rob raised their family in the West side home she lived in for almost 60 years. She was an active member of St. Gregory’s Catholic Church, contributing her fine alto voice to the choir into her 80s. Rollande’s love for children shone through during the 15 years she worked as a teachers’ aide at St. Gregory School. Kind, encouraging, but no-nonsense, she was adored by the kids and many of them, as adults, called out an enthusiastic “Hi, Mrs. Wellsman” whenever they saw her.
Rollande enjoyed life fully: she was a voracious reader, an excellent seamstress and knitter, a wonderful cook and baker, a loving grandmother, a community volunteer, a canoeist with the Ancient Mariners, and an enthusiastic traveller. In her 70s, she took up bowling, an activity she excelled at and enjoyed for more than a decade.
Rollande’s family wishes to express their appreciation to the staff at the Villa Care Centre and Tiffin House in Midland who cared for her in her later years.
Cremation has taken place and a private family gathering will be held at Carson Funeral Home Saturday September 14, 2024.
Condolences
Ancient Mariners Canoe Club
Sep 10, 2024And when I reach the river's end, without a moment's warning, a new stream leads around the bend, to float my boat til morning. Our condolences to the family and friends of Rollande, an advide outdoors woman. Her friends at the Ancient Mariners Canoe Club
Caterina Lindman
Sep 9, 2024Dear Leisa and Gary, Mark and I are very sorry for your loss. Donna told me that Rollande lived with you for a while. My mother lived with us for a while too, before she went into long term care. I hope that your memories of taking care of her help you feel that you showed her some of the love that she showed you.
JEFF PETERS
Sep 9, 2024Susan, Jim, Thom and Leisa, It has been a very long time, but I remember your mom very well. She always had a smile and greeted me with a very warm welcome when I came to your home. My cndolences to each of you. Jeff
DONNA RICH-BRADIE
Sep 8, 2024My deepest condolences to Leisa and Gary and to the whole family on the passing of Leisa's Mother. I never had the privilege of meeting Rollande but I see that she lived a life of love and service. What a legacy! You are in my thoughts and in my heart at this time. Love, Donna
Caterina Lindman
Sep 5, 2024Dear Leisa and Gary, Mark and I are very sorry for your loss. Donna told me that Rollande lived with you for a while. My mother lived with us for a while too, before she went into long term care. I hope that your memories of taking care of her help you feel that you showed her some of the love that she showed you.
Pat Perry
Aug 30, 2024My condolences to my cousins, Susan, Jim, Tom and Leisa on the loss of your mom Rollie - Even though I haven't seen her in years, I've got great memories of her and your dad growing up - she was always so full of life, with a great sense of humour. My heart goes out to you all and your families. Love, Pat Perry
Carol & Paul Hodgins
Aug 30, 2024Susan, Leisa and all family We were very sorry to learn of Rollande’s passing. We had the pleasure of meeting and enjoying her company on different occasions. Please accept our sincere condolences at this difficult time. Carol & Paul