For more than 40 years, Jeannine Gingras devoted herself to the Blizzard of Saint-François Séminaire. Today, this U18 AAA hockey program mourns the death of the woman who was, in a way, the mother of the big family.
It was Friday that Mme Gingras died at the age of 91 from cancer, surrounded by her loved ones. Until recently, with her partner, Clermont Gingras, she still attended Blizzard games, the team to which she devoted herself as a volunteer for a good part of her life.
“The last time she attended a local game was November 16 against Amos. Shortly after, she entered the hospital and unfortunately never came out.
“We knew this day was coming, but it happened too quickly. It really saddens us to know that she and Clermont will not be together next year for the 50th celebrations.e anniversary of the team,” confided one of the team’s governors, Alain Parenteau.
The lady of all trades
Seamstress, Jeannine Gingras has never spared time to ensure that no one lacks anything at Blizzard.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE BLIZZARD
Everyone in the Blizzard entourage knew Mme Gingras. The person who was in charge of video recording the matches also worked at reception and in different roles, such as that of the team's seamstress.
The name strips on the back of the sweaters or all the patching, that was her. All this and of course countless other related tasks.
“She and Clermont have really been managers of the team for years. It's immeasurable how much time they gave. When we talk about more than 40 years of involvement, it’s enormous,” testified Mr. Parenteau.
“It’s a very big piece that’s leaving us. Jeannine had quite a character and she was frankly resourceful. “It’s beautiful to see a strong-willed woman like her,” he added.
A tribute in January
Jeannine and Clermont Gingras were honored at the Athlete's Gala in 2019 in the volunteer category.
Photo ANNIE T. ROUSSEL
In recent years, the Blizzard created the Clermont and Jeannine Gingras Trophy to reward dedication among players. This shows all the respect that the couple inspired.
On January 12, during the visit of the Gauls of Saint-Hyacinthe, the Blizzard will pay tribute to Jeannine Gingras.
“We will honor him in the right way, soberly,” promised Mr. Parenteau.
Jeannine and Clermont Gingras were inducted into the Hockey Quebec Hall of Fame in 2018.
At this moment, Mme Gingras had mentioned to TVA Sports colleague Stéphane Turcot that the Blizzard allowed him to stay young.
“I would rather go to hockey and do everything I do there than go play cards in a church hall,” she said with her usual frankness.
Several Blizzard alumni remained attached to the couple. In 2011, Patrice Bergeron notably took the trouble to be photographed with the two inseparable people, with the Stanley Cup, which he had just won with the Boston Bruins.
