Obituary of Gilles Séguin

Gilles, dearly loved husband of Anne Tweddle and Pops of Daniel (Alicia), passed away on August 18, 2022 at Perley Health in Ottawa at the age of 72.  He was predeceased by his mother Muriel Berthiaume, father Gaston Séguin, and stepfather Hubert Berthiaume.  Gilles leaves behind many dear friends and relatives who will miss him deeply. 

Gilles was a selfless, kind and truly generous man.  He had a wonderful sense of humour and loved nothing more than making people laugh.  His smile radiated warmth and his presence lit up a room.

Gilles was a life-long blood donor and donated blood, plasma, or platelets 343 times.  He was an avid fisherman and loved being on the mighty Gatineau River early in the morning, a coffee in one hand and a fishing line in the other, with the mist still lingering on the water.  He also dearly loved his kitties and formed deep bonds with them all, especially his little Tommy. 

Gilles was a man of integrity and a strong champion of social justice issues.  In the early 1970s, he joined the federal government and worked on social programs over his 30-year career.  He was deeply respected by colleagues across the country for his conviction to sharing information as well as his honesty and openness.  From 1997 until 2018, he maintained his website, Canadian Social Research Links.  This labour of love continued well into his retirement years, reflecting his unwavering commitment to fair, responsible and progressive social policy.  In 2009, his dedication to furthering social development and social justice was recognized when he was co-recipient of the Dick Weiler Award. 

The family extends its deep gratitude to the staff of G2N at Perley Health for their outstanding care during Gilles’ journey with Lewy Body Dementia, especially the palliative care team for their extraordinary support and compassion. 

There will be a Celebration of Life for Gilles on Friday, September 9, 2022 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Pinecrest Remembrance Services, 2500 Baseline Road in Ottawa. Words of remembrance will be at 1:30.   In honour of Gilles’ memory, the family would appreciate donations to the Alzheimer Society, the Dementia Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County or a charity of your choosing.