Renald passed away peacefully with his family by his side in Kemptville, Ont. on March 26, 2024 just days before his 87th birthday. Beloved husband of Doreen (Melvin) for 57 years, loving dad/Papa to Anne, Julie (Ron Savoy) and Lynn. He was cherished Grandpapa to nine grandchildren: Benjamin, Jacob, Maxime, Leah, Kyle, Megan, Liam, Gabrielle and Anna. Born in Chicoutimi, Québec to Léon-Georges Simard and Stella Renald, he was the oldest of 10 and is survived by brothers Aubert, Martin (Dominique Laberge) and Damien (Louise Boulianne), sisters Lydia, Arlette, Jovette and Julia as well as his cousin Martial Morin. Brothers Lévide and Jocelyn, and his brother-in-law Bébé predeceased him. He is also survived by his brother-in-law David Melvin and wife Carolyn.
Leaving home to study, Renald arrived in Ottawa in 1951 where he enjoyed hockey and sports, first considering physical education before finding his passion in medicine. He graduated from the University of Ottawa School of Medicine in 1962, practicing as family physician in Baie Comeau where he met Doreen and a lifetime of adventures began. Doreen became his companion in travel, family, and life - his babe. He specialized in physical medicine and rehabilitation and was part of the group of doctors who founded the Ottawa Hospital Rehabilitation Centre.
After practicing in Ottawa and Halifax, he served as a federal government medical advisor before retiring at 78. Over the years, the Simard family lived in Quebec City, Hull, Halifax, Moncton and Nepean before Renald and Doreen retired to Kemptville. Visits with family and friends in Chicoutimi and the cottage in Caribou River, N.S. were a constant. Renald made deep friendships along the way, with his easy smile, laughter, and light-hearted disposition. He was always ready for a beer and a chat and never too rushed for anyone. The golf course, the clinic examination room, the curling rink, the aisle at the Canadian Tire - friends could be found everywhere. A diagnosis of Alzheimer's faded some of his light, and the family is grateful to caregivers and friends who supported Renald and Doreen for the past two years. Thanks also to Dr. Luong and the team at Kemptville Hospital for caring for him in his final days. Donations to the Alzheimer's Society of Canada are gratefully accepted.