Coming
out of our driveway, I always looked for our neighbour. I did'nt
know him very well, but he had always a friendly gesture or word
for me, and liked him for that.
Sometimes
he talked about his family's history in Entrelacs, or he guided
me back even to the begin of the century when his grandfather walked
on the same property.
Sometimes
I could see only his car between the trees sending me the message
of his presence and of a possible chat later on.
And
I had always in mind that if ever we would do something for Entrelacs,
he would be the right person to be involved.
And
when we inaugurated the new bridge on Jean-Venne River for the new
official trail, I could see how happy he was to be a main partner
in this project. After his death I found again confirmed that bridges
connect people, bridge generations and build friendships.
That
may be why he proposed to name the bridge after his father
"Passerelle Roger Paquette", what was done to respect
his family.
Since
September 20th, I cannot see him or his car any more. The flame
of our cautious friendship is out because of a tragic accident.
And
since this sad Saturday, I feel somehow very lonely passing on the
main road between his and our property. It is his mindful presence
I am missing.
At
his funeral we learned more about Robert Paquette, his life, his
family, his friends and his deep love for Entrelacs and the Lac
des Iles, where he grew up, got married, and wanted to retire
in a few years.
Now
he is not saluting any more and I look every day if I may see someone
from his family I could salute. It is as if a part of his personality
would have taken possession of me to improve my relationship to
others. If so, I have to thank him.
Others
have to thank him too.
Why?
Inauguration
of the Roger Paquette Bridge ( July 5th 2008), Robert Paquette,
right of front row.
The
first photo from the bridge (February 20th 2008).Robert Paquette
third from the left.
Because
Entrelacs talks since years about a network of trails to let people
enjoy more than a walk along the busy main road, to cut walking
distances to and from the village, and to bring in general the municipal
value a little bit up.
But
many ground owners were and are still reluctant to give a right
of way on their grounds, and the project was only progressing on
paper.
It
took immedially form when my wife Marjolaine Bouchard met Robert
Paquette. Both open minded, both people of action.
The
result?
Robert's brother, Bruce saw it as an opportunity to contribute to
'St.Emile's community by allowing the trail to pass at the border
of his property to reach the Chalet des loisirs.
Marjolaine,
some volunteers and the municipality did their share, and last summer,
we inaugurated the first section of the muicipal trail network and
a brand new bridge over the river Jean-Venne River called 'Passerelle
Roger Paquette'.
