November 24, 1919 - March 12, 2019
Passed away in Nelson, BC with family. Lionel was born in Retlaw, Alberta in 1919 to Joseph Binette and Eleanore Binette (Therien). Lionel and family lived in the area of Saint Paul, Alberta for many years. Lionel met Irene Guertin in Vancouver, BC, a girl from back home. They were married for 68 years until Irene passed away in 2010. Louis their eldest also passed away in 2011. Lionel and Irene lived all over Canada. Over 65 postings and moves and when they got to the Kootenays. Irene said 'That's it! I'm not leaving!' They settled in Kootenay Bay & were well known and respected. They loved it. Living in Nelson,as Irene's health impacted life, Lionel really enjoyed the Legion, and playing crib at the Seniors Lodge downtown. He is known for reciting, "Flanders Field" on Remembrance Day at the Cenotaph.
During his long life he worked very hard to do right by his family. A good practical, frugal and determined man. His career in the Royal Canadian Air Force as a Search and Rescue Pararescue / Survival Trainer sent him to many dangerous and remote places, just before retirement he wrote the Canadian Forces Survival Book, "Down but not out" for the military.
Lionel's siblings: Cyril, Lawrence and Blanche predeceased him.
HIs brother Real lives in St. Albert, Alberta. Lionel and Irene had 3 children Louis, Eleanore and David & 6 grandchildren; Jennifer, Nichole, Alyza, Ross, Laura and Katherine, 7 great grandchildren; Zackaria, London, Emily, Rebecca, Bryden, Margaret and Jase.
Lindsay Evans, Gloria Binette, Douglas Allen and Ojan Cromie held a very special place in his heart, as did Caroline, Ryan and Iris.
Lionel loved to party, play harmonica and dance. He could stay up till the wee hours on New Years Eve, even at the age of 98 years old! He had many friends.
We invite you to the Royal Canadian Legion, Nelson Branch. Sunday, March 24 @ 1 pm For a Remembrance Toast to Lionel's life.
Service Details
1:00 PM