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Todd Cloes posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2020
Roger Dallaire Todd Cloes
"Do you hear that!?" I said excitedly to my buddy Vase, "that’s not a radio! That’s real, let’s go!"
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We were in Camlachie, I was probably seven, Vase would be nine. We were sitting on the raised cement base that secured the tall Shell sign in front of Reid’s Variety and Gas on Old Lakeshore Road. Mrs Reid closed up shop at ten so I’m going to guess it was 9ish.
Crickets and frogs or the occasional passing car would be all you’d hear at that time of night in Huron Heights in 1971.
Often Vase and I would buy a pop and sit out front of Reid’s after dark, watching various characters coming and going, getting their cigarettes and gas and whatnot. It was a typical end to most summer days for him and I back then.
We spent the sunny days on the beach or riding bikes, catching frogs in the ditch, seeing what was going on at Lamrecton Camp, fishing in Perch Creek, building forts and playing with the other kids in Huron Heights, but mostly we hung out with each other.
When nightfall came neither Vase or I were allowed to go too far from our cottages so we would typically go to the store for a pop and sip it out front below the Shell sign. Finishing our Orange Crush or Root Beers we’d bring the empties back into the store to Mrs Reid and spend the bottle return money on mo-jo’s and black babies.
Getting on our bikes we’d lazily ride around the narrow gravel road that fronted the summer cottages of Huron Heights for something to do.
On weekends many cottage owners would have guests so there would be more cars parked on the edge of road and on front lawns.
We’d ride around and see people gathered around bon fires in backyards, sitting in lawn chairs, on Coleman coolers or log stumps.
It would typically be hot and humid so out so every screened door and window were open on the cottages. Inside you could glimpse people sitting at kitchen tables playing cards bathed in soft light from hanging swag lamps.
Surrounded by the din of crickets accompanied by the gentle sound of gravel under our bike tires we’d ride our bikes around lazily chewing on a mo-jo. Punctuating the darkness would be the occasional loud crack of dry wood burning in a fire pit, the murmur of quiet conversations, loud laughter erupting sporadically, and usually the sounds of CKLW from a transistor radio atop a picnic table.
Part of our night bike cruises included stopping at the top of the wooden stairs that led to the beach. We would lean our bikes on the fence that lined the narrow grass path to the stairs then walk down them and see who might be having a bon fire there. We’d look West towards the street lights in Brights Grove, and East into the pitch blackness, seeing orange glowing bon fires that dotted the shore line all the way to Blue Point. It was so quiet on the beach.
It was a night just like one of these, Vase and I sitting on our bikes at the top of the beach stairs at the end of Franklin St. We were talking, staring out over the pitch blackness that was Lake Huron dimly lit by the stars when we both heard it. A sudden burst of happy cheers, loud robust voices and some excited hand clapping.
The clamour was coming from behind us, from a nearby cottage. Listening closer now as the voices and clapping subside a bit a acoustic guitar started ringing out and a guy’s voice started singing along with it.
Snapping my head towards Vase I said loudly. "Do you hear that!! that isn’t a radio! that’s real!"
I immediately started backing my bike up turning it around saying "let’s go see, c’mon!"
We peddled our bikes on the grass path away from the beach stairs following the sound. We didn’t have far to go, just a few cottages from the path on the left was where the music was coming from.
We stopped our bikes at the edge of the driveway there, while still sitting on our bikes we could hear the guitar and singing much louder and clearer now.
The playing and singing was so good, I was immediately captivated by it. We sat on our bikes and listened but we couldn’t see the guy who was playing and singing, whoever it was, he was just out of our sight line, around the back corner of the cottage.
I sat stunned cocking my ear, the playing and singing was good, perfectly matched. The guy was performing modern songs I had heard on the radio and loved, Beatle songs, Monkee’s songs, Elvis songs, I could hardly believe my ears!
We were kinda inching our way up the driveway closer to hear better and we were watching the people that surrounded this musician we still couldn’t see. The people watching were singing along on the chorus’ of the songs, laughing, clapping their hands and having a riot. When the guy would end a song they would call out different song requests joyfully and loudly and he knew every song they wanted and would start right into one to cheers.
The people watching were having so much fun, they were laughing and talking all at once in both French and English, enjoying drinks, singing and just generally having one hell of a good time.
A smiling man that I recognized as someone my Dad called Leo started coming up the driveway towards us. "Hi guy’s! You wanna hear the music? come on!" he said waving us in.
"Yes! Thank you!" I blurted out. I got off my bike and laid it right down on the driveway, I started towards the sound of that guitar and voice. Rounding the back corner of the cottage we stopped and stood quietly behind the people sitting at the back in their lawn chairs.
There was the guy playing, Roger Delaire, I didn’t know it was Roger then, but there he was holding his guitar, slightly hunched over it, looking at his hand on the neck, strumming with the other hard and precisely, singing out loudly and beautifully. Wow.
Roger was seated on a wooden bench, He never hesitated on a chord or a word in the songs he was playing, it came out deliberately and confidently from beginning to end. Roger smiled widely in between singing the words, bobbing his head unconsciously keeping time, the joy he was sharing with everyone with his performance just kept coming in waves. I don’t think I blinked the whole time I watched him.
His played so good that it looked like magic to me then, some kind of trick, like a rabbit out of a hat, how is he doing that?? I was mesmerized, it made me instantly feel happy and the feeling stayed with me with every song he played.
I had never seen anything like it yet in my short lifetime, sure on TV I had seen guitar players, but this was live, right in front of me, it was real. Up to this point I thought musicians who could play like that fell from the sky, not live on the next street over.
Vase and I stood watching Roger play seven or eight songs in a row, he never stopped for long , just starting right into another one that was requested the loudest.
Not knowing for sure, but sensing it was time for me to be home, Vase and I quietly left as the party carried on. Riding away on our bikes I could still hear Roger’s voice singing and guitar playing slowly fade as we got further away.
My ears strained to hear him, to hear him play one more song, and I still do.
Rest and play in peace Roger.
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Helene and Larry Agar planted a tree in memory of Roger Dallaire
Monday, November 16, 2020
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Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
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Terry Linseman lit a candle
Saturday, November 14, 2020
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We'll miss Roger's contagious smile. I sang with him at the Scared Heart choir and we always discussed the Sting game and the Leaf game when we had a spare moment. Roger had a real talent for playing guitar! No music notes needed.
Terry and Susan Linseman
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Marcel Dubois posted a condolence
Friday, November 13, 2020
Lise, Rose and Pat......I was filled with sorrow at the news of Roger’s passing.
My memories go back to the days when Roger was developing as a good guitarist and I pretended to be able to play the piano....lol. Your family put up with a lot of noise as we honed our skills including Norm’s saxophone.
Thanks for putting up with us....it was some of the best times of my youth!
You have my heartfelt condolences....Marcel
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Deb Cavanaugh posted a condolence
Friday, November 13, 2020
Lise and Michelle and families so sorry to hear of your loss. Love and prayers Deb Cavanaugh
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Jean Mantha posted a condolence
Friday, November 13, 2020
Rose and family,
I was sorry to see the passing of your brother, Roger. I remember his passion for music ministry at Sunday Masses when I was a teenager. He was truly a gifted musician and brought much joy to others through his music. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the entire Dallaire family.
Jean Mantha
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Rick Gauthier and family posted a condolence
Friday, November 13, 2020
So sorry to hear of Roger’s passing. May he Rest In Peace with our other family members. Condolences to my cousins and family in Sarnia. Roger and all of you will be in our thoughts while you grieve his loss.
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Penny Gladwish posted a condolence
Friday, November 13, 2020
Roger was a true inspiration in how to live life....he was always upbeat and happy to share his music, his laughter and his smile. He brought so much joy to all who had contact with him. I met him through singing in the Watson's at the nursing homes in Sarnia and it was always wonderful to see how people responded to his positive spirit. I will miss him and never forget what a good man he was - no small feat to be sure.
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Pat Williams planted a tree in memory of Roger Dallaire
Friday, November 13, 2020
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We all will miss you Roger. Love from Chad, Cindy, Dee Dee and Ubba
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Shelley Kern posted a condolence
Friday, November 13, 2020
To Lise, Pat, Rose & Families, on behalf of Strangway Recreation Centre please accept our condolences on Roger’ s recent passing. His big smile and his helpful ways will be truly missed. He will always be admired for his determination and his positive outlook on life. He will be missed by so many. Our thoughts are with you during this very difficult time.
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Anne Stewardson posted a condolence
Thursday, November 12, 2020
Lise, so sorry to hear of Roger’s passing. He was a guy who loved to sing and play his guitar! I can still see you and Roger singing “Me and Bobbie McGee” - such happy memories. xxoo
Mike & Anne Stewardson
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Jan Herbert posted a condolence
Thursday, November 12, 2020
Lise, Rose, Pat and families: I just wanted to send my deep sympathy for the loss of your brother Roger. Jan Herbert
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Brenda Gallaway posted a condolence
Thursday, November 12, 2020
Lise,Michael & family So very sorry to hear of Roger's passing, He was a great guy, may your many memories of him outshine your grief. We had many great hockey weekends away with Roger entertaining us with his music. God Bless and RIP Roger Brenda&JIm Gallaway
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Your Cintas Family purchased flowers
Thursday, November 12, 2020
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Your Cintas Family
purchased the Peaceful White Lilies Basket for the family of Roger Dallaire.
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Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
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Brian and Lorraine Scott posted a condolence
Thursday, November 12, 2020
Roger and his guitar were inseparable. His amazing musical talent made him known to many but it was his kind heart that made him such an important family member. Truly a good person who managed his health challenges with grace and dignity. Of the many songs that he played for us, I remember his version of Don MacLean’s Vincent. To paraphrase for you Roger: Our weathered faces are now lined in pain - soothed beneath the artists loving hand.
Brian and Lorraine
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Tom & Jo xxoo planted a tree in memory of Roger Dallaire
Thursday, November 12, 2020
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Our thoughts and prayers are with you. This tree will be planted in honour of you Roger...you will be missed...RIP
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Joanne Tosh lit a candle
Thursday, November 12, 2020
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Lise, Rose , Pat and Family....
I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Rogers passing....it broke my heart....Roger will be remembered for his kindness...love and living life to the fullest.....Growing up with the Dallaire's...Gauthier's....Dubois....and all the other cousins in the Gauthier Clan...Roger was always there to fulfill us with great entertainment and singing all the old and new songs of the century.... He was a great guitar player and took playing the guitar very serious....we (The Clan) would always sit back sing....clap....laugh... and have a great time....Every time I visited the Family in Sarnia....Roger was there....he would get his Guitar and play my favorite song "Hey Sunday Sun"....a old Neil Diamond Song....That I truly love...and he knew when I walked in the room...he would yell..."Jo is here" ...and he would get his guitar out and play that song...(after a few warm up songs...lol)...I will certainly cherish Roger playing and singing that song for me.. & ..all the good times we had with Roger and the Family growing up....He was a happy go lucky kinda guy...always smiling....and willing to play his guitar....Roger...you will be missed...Rest in Peace Cousin....xxoo Jo
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Leah posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
Oh Lise.. How your heart must be broken. For over a decade I’ve been privileged to be able to be in your lives like I have been. I’m going to miss Roge and our music trivia times.
He was an amazing and talented musician. Even with his Parkinson’s he still found the strength to play his guitar and bring a smile to everyone’s lives.
Lucille was waiting with open arms. He’s in good hands. I love you my friend. Your are in my prayers. Xx
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Don Fraser lit a candle
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
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Roger always a kindguy and a gentleman he will be missed R.I.P. ROGER
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Mike Couture posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
I have the fondest memories of growing up in the Point with Roger as my guitar mentor and buddy. Playing at the house on Louisa with the whole clan then pizza. Riding out to Huron Heights on Sundays to play some more. And Leo would always ask us to play Wildwood Flower. Major jam sessions at the Ex-Service Men's club. An air guitar concert on VIA rail coming back from a weekend watching the Leafs and Habs in Montreal. Who could play the better Roy Clark? It was always the Dodge. It was the best time of our lives.
My condolences to the whole family. Rest in peace my friend.
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Lloyd Churchill posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
I loved sharing stories of Toronto Maple Leafs successes and losses. Roger had a heart of gold and he will be missed. Always celebrated in memories.
Lloyd Churchill
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Gil Couture posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
I remember all the hours spend at our house playing guitar with my brother when I was young. R.I.P. Rodger
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Marlene Schofield lit a candle
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
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Roger livened up many a party and brought a million smiles to peoples faces with his entertaining. A good soul. Lisa, Rose, Pat and families, may the memories you’ve made with Roger throughout the years be your comfort now. Thinking of you all. Love Marlene And Deb xo
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Len posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
To all of Rogers family we send sincere condolences. We all in our own way will miss him and all have our own memories of Roger , either at the arena watching his beloved Sting or watching the kids from the cold rink at RBC. Roger touched a lot of lives and we hope that some of your memories will bring you some peace at this difficult time. We keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Len & Gloria
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The Strickland Family purchased flowers
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
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The Strickland Family
purchased the Beautiful in Blue for the family of Roger Dallaire.
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Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss... Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
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Bryan , Sarah and Samantha Meere purchased flowers
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
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Bryan , Sarah and Samantha Meere
purchased the Sweetest Sunrise Bouquet for the family of Roger Dallaire.
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Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
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Jo kulik posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
Sending our deepest condolences on the passing of a life well lived. Rest In Peace, Roger.
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The family of Roger Laurent Dallaire uploaded a photo
Tuesday, November 10, 2020
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Phone: (519) 344-3131
431 N. Christina St.
Sarnia, Ontario N7T 5V8
