J Henri Prefontaine October 4, 1924 - April 3, 2009 The celebration that was life has come to an end for J Henri Prefontaine on April 3, 2009. After 84 eventful years he lost his final challenge. Henri's story began October 4, 1924 in Vancouver St. Paul Hospital. His growing years were spent in Legal and Edmonton, AB. A clubfoot and French accent were the first challenges to help shape his character. Though active in sports the foot helped him understand the potential of the mind. The term "Frenchy" was like a ringside bell and he learned early on never to shy from a fight. On October 4, 1945 Henri met his first miracle, Frances Schram whom he married January 14, 1947. Six more miracles occurred, five boys and one girl. His last miracle was that his beloved Frances spent the rest of his life by his side. Henri was the ultimate entrepreneur. He never worked for any company other than his own. Businesses ran the gamut from largest billiard hall on one floor in the world through doors, investing, hotels, apartments, mining and agriculture. His favorite time was as the owner of the David Thompson Motor Inn in Kamloops from 1964 to 1981 and 1985 to 1988. In spite of the hectic business pace Henri always made time for family and friends. Once retired from business life Henri's energy turned to helping others through the community of St. John Vianney parish and the Knights of Columbus. He and Franky made numerous friends in these last 20 years who have in turn helped them through this last difficult period. Henri is survived by his wife Frances, brother Marcel, six children Lloyd (Margo), Donald (Marilyn), Mickey, Douglas (Anita), Sherry and Daryl (Wendy), 12 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Prayers will be recited on Sunday, April 12 at 5:00 p.m. at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 2826 Bank Road. The Reverend Father Derrick Cameron will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial in the church on Monday, April 13, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. A tribute to Henri will be held in the St. John Vianney church hall at 12 noon on Monday, April 13. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Kamloops Hospice Association, 72 Whiteshield Cr., South, Kamloops, B.C., V2E 2S9 in memory of Henri would be appreciated. On-line condolences may be expressed at http://www.schoenings.com.Service arrangement entrusted to Schoening Funeral Service, telephone 250-374-1454