It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Elvine Boulet (nee Arseneault), resident of Grande Prairie on Sunday, June 8, at Prairie Lake Seniors Community at the age of 88.

Elvine was born and raised in St. Alphonse, Quebec, the eldest of 8 girls and 6 boys. In June 1950 when Elvine was 14 years old, the family headed west to Alberta. They settled in the small community of Marie Reine, which offered plenty of opportunities. An old schoolhouse for the early grades was relocated to the area for the new families, while the Catholic Church and Rectory were still under construction.

“Vivine”, as she was known by her family and close friends, attended grades 9 to 11 in Falher while living at the convent with the Sisters of St. Croix. She went on to complete Grade 12 in Fort Vermilion. Elvine achieved the highest French mark in the province of Alberta during her senior year, receiving an award for this accomplishment.

Elvine first met Robert (Bob) at a Parish event in Marie Reine. They courted for several years until they married on August 24, 1957. Elvine was a loving wife and partner to Bob for nearly 68 years. In their early years of marriage, they owned the Marie Reine General Store and Post Office until they joined the Arseneault family business in logging and milling. During this time, Elvine managed the bookkeeping for the business and looked after a small concession for the workers.

The family logging business led them to relocate to Chetwynd, where their first child, Dianne, was born in 1962. The family moved to High Level and had two more children: Lisette in 1965 and Norman in 1969. This is also where their new business was formed in 1966, RNB Logging Ltd. In August 1970, they settled in Grande Prairie, where they welcomed their last child, Raymond, in 1974. In 1977, Elvine and Bob moved to the farm in Clairmont, where they farmed and stayed for 20 years. They moved back to Grande Prairie in 1996 for her remaining years.

Elvine dedicated her life to her family, faith and friends. She was a member of the CWL, forming friendships that were dear to her heart and lasted a lifetime. She volunteered in church events including bake sales, and rummage sales and canvassing for the Heart and Stroke Foundation as well as CNIB. She had a love for books and was an avid reader. Elvine and Bob enjoyed many trips and family reunions with the Boulet family in Manitoba.

Elvine was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She enjoyed watching her children in sporting events, which included games and travelling out of town for tournaments. Her grandchildren brought her immense joy and laughter, cherishing the many times they spent together. She was also blessed to have 3 great-grandchildren, whom she adored.

Elvine and Bob moved into Prairie Lake Seniors Community, enjoying quiet times together, walks around the lake and visits from family and friends. She touched countless lives with her gentle nature, and she loved unconditionally. Elvine will be forever remembered for her values of love, kindness and faith, leaving a legacy that will be cherished by her family.

Elvine will be deeply missed by her husband Bob; children Dianne, Lisette (Scott), Norman (Michelle) and Raymond, along with her beloved eight grandchildren and three great-grandsons. She will also be missed dearly by her siblings: Rose, Clement (Liliane), Gus (Barb), Jacinthe (Raymond), Paulette (Mark), Real (Kim), Suzanne (Dave); and sisters-in-law Laverne, Jeanne, and Margaret. Elvine will also be mourned by her extended family and friends.

Elvine was predeceased by her parents, Leo & Jeanne Arseneault; siblings Denise, Rejeanne, Gerald, Gaetane, Paul, and Yves; and brothers-in-law Fred and Paul.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that Memorial Donations be made to a charity of one’s choice in Elvine's name.

The family will be having a Funeral at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church (10404 102 St) Grande Prairie on Friday, August 15, at 10:30 a.m.