MELANSON, JAMES LEO - It is with great sadness that the family of James Leo Melanson of Moncton announce his passing at the Moncton Hospital on Wednesday, January 9, 2013 at the age of 81. Born in Moncton on November 28, 1931, he was a son of the late Leo Melanson and Mae (MacGowan) Melanson. James worked at CN for 37 years as assistant works manager-car. He was a member of Saint-Bernard's. R.C. Church in Moncton. Jimmy was an avid wood worker, carver, gardener and he also enjoyed painting. He was a frequent exhibitor at the Kent County Agricultural Fair. He leaves behind his beautiful and loving wife of 60 years, Irma (Bourgeois) Melanson; three children: Susan Lavoie and her husband Pierre of Moncton, Michael and his wife Gisèle of Moncton and Mark of Bouctouche; three siblings: Doris Leger (Raymond), William (Murielle) and Sandra Hicks (James), all of Moncton; his grandchildren: Julie, Melanie (André), Mathieu, Monica, Margo and Marcel; two great-grandchildren: Maëlle and Caleb; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Besides his parents, James was predeceased a sister, Barbara Cormier; two brothers: Ronald and Peter John “Jack”.
The family will receive condolences at Frenette Funeral Centre, 88 Church Street, Moncton, on Friday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. The funeral service celebrating the life of James will be held at Saint-Bernard's R.C. Church, 43 Botsford Street, Moncton, on Saturday, January 12, 2013 at 11 a.m. In memory of James, a contribution to the Friends of the Moncton Hospital Foundation, Birthright or to a charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated. www.frenettefuneralhome.com