The Barry’s Bay Farmers Market lost a long time helper when Joe Laderoute passed away peacefully at home on July 20th. (Above left, shown with market vendor Andrea Budarick. Photo MVACL) The Current was alerted to his death by Andrea, who referred to him as her “market security detail” and said she “wanted folks to know who he was, his determination to be productive in the community, that he passed and we will miss him.” Regular shoppers at the Farmers Market on Fridays will likely recall him as Joe frequented Andrea’s market stand for many years and eventually became one of her helpers. Earlier this summer he told Andrea that by his calculations they had been friends for 33 years.
Following his death Andrea displayed a tribute at her market stand in memory of Joe. Announcing it in a Facebook post, she said it was to recognize his contributions, determination, humour in spite of his hardships, willingness to help contribute and be productive, and his “trust with us to be valued and appreciated.” She commented that he is now free of helmet, wheelchair, seizures, and ended by saying “Rest easy, Joe, until we all meet again!”
Since 2002 Madawaska Valley Association for Community Living (MVACL) provided support to Joe. While he had many support workers during that time, Ron Olsheskie was clearly one of his favourites. Joe spent many a day helping Ron in his shop. They often “ran the roads” together in Ron’s truck. Despite Joe’s (at times) gruff manner, anyone who knew him, knew he had a heart of gold. Doubtless, Joe will be missed by all at MVACL.
But local “Donut Diva” Andrea did occupy a special place in his heart, and their friendship inspired her to reach out to MVACL to help with a special Christmas celebration last year. The Current learned that she keeps a Charity Donations jar on her market stand. When a shopper wants to buy just one or two donuts rather than a dozen, she asks them to pop some extra change into the jar. It was those donations funds, as well as her skills and time, that Andrea put towards catering a Christmas dinner for both the people supported and the staff of MVACL.
In an obituary, Joe’s family thanked” Community Living, Bayshore, and Ronnie for their compassion and care.” As he wished, Joe was cremated and his ashes interred at Our Lady of Grace Cemetery in Westmeath. Online condolences may be left at nevillefuneralhome.ca
.
