James Ernest "Ernie" LeBlanc

Ernie was an exemplary human being who touched countless lives. We, his family, are deeply heartbroken by this immeasurable loss but are comforted knowing he is reunited with the love of his life, Joanne.

Ernie was born October 31, 1938, in South Musquash, N.B. to Gertrude (Thibeault) and James LeBlanc. He loved being an older brother to Eileen, Carman, and Elsie. For most of his childhood and young adult life he lived in St. George, N.B.

Ernie was a Jack of all trades - there really was nothing he could not do. In his twenties and thirties, he was a barber, a butcher, and a farmer, and for most of his working life, he was a carpenter for Atlantic Building Contractors Inc.

Ernie and Joanne met in the summer of 1971, were married June 3, 1972, and welcomed their firstborn, Andrea, in July 1973. Their second daughter, Stephanie, was born December 1974. Ernie was many things to many people – husband, brother, son, friend, uncle, and grandfather – but the role he cherished most was that of father. He lived his life for his girls and gave selflessly his entire life so they could have the life he dreamed for them.

He was deeply rooted in his faith and was actively involved in St. George Catholic Church and St. Mark’s Catholic Church, as well as Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Ontario.

Outside of his deep love for his family, he had many passions. From an early age, he loved helping out on his family farm and, throughout his life, cultivated a profound fondness for gardening. His pride for growing organic vegetables was fierce and most everyone who knew him had at least a few tours of his beloved gardens.

When he was fourteen, he saved his money to purchase his first guitar. Music was in his bones. He played guitar, banjo, mandolin, and fiddle. Notable accomplishments were playing in his band, White Lightning, with his sister Eileen and brother-in-law Marvin, and playing with Ned Landry. He was also a local legend for his accomplished yodeling.

One of his greatest joys was telling stories, talking to people, and making them laugh. He never took himself too seriously and delighted in his relationship with his friends. He accepted everyone without judgment – all felt welcome in his presence.

He is survived by his daughters Andrea LeBlanc (Craig Galbraith) and Stephanie LeBlanc, sisters Eileen Leeman (Marvin) and Elsie Manzer, and many nieces and nephews and beloved friends. He leaves behind three cherished grandchildren: Levi, Kaylah and Darah. He is predeceased by his wife Joanne, his parents, and his brother Carman.
Special thanks to Daniel LeBlanc (nephew) who shared such a special bond that he was more like a son to Ernie. Daniel went above and beyond in helping care for Ernie, especially in the last decade. Special thanks also to the remarkable, compassionate, and loving staff of the Fundy Nursing Home in Black’s Harbour, N.B.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 10th at St. George Funeral Home from 6 to 9 pm. Funeral Mass will be held at St. George Catholic Church on Monday, November 11th at 2 pm. Interment following at the St. George Catholic Cemetery. Reception to follow at St. George Curling Club. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Fundy Nursing Home would be greatly appreciated.