Family members are mourning a Dover Center man who was killed in a workplace accident in rural Chatham-Kent near Dresden.
Identified by his family as Duane Reaume, the 54-year-old “sustained fatal injuries while felling a tree” in Dawn-Euphemia Township on Oct. 26, according to the Labor Ministry.
A ministry spokesperson confirmed that three orders had been issued to the employer, John Harris Concrete Ltd., and one order issued to Whites Construction Thamesville Ltd.
“Our thoughts are with the family, friends and colleagues of this worker,” the spokesperson added. “An (ministry) inspector has been assigned and the investigation is ongoing.”
Reaume was remembered by his family at a service and visitation this past Tuesday, with the Alexander and Houle Funeral Home handling the arrangements.
His daughter, Jocelyn Reaume, said in an email that it’s a difficult time for the family, but they are also focusing on the positive impact her father had on others.
“He is so loved and so missed,” she said. “I will always feel this loss, but I hope one day instead of crying when I think of him, I can smile and feel that pooling blanket of warmth and love.”
She thanked the community for its outpouring of love, saying “it is felt deeply and we are so happy to have such a great support system through this challenging time.”
According to his obituary, Reaume was a “Mr. Fix It” and “Jack of all trades” who would always help anyone in need.
“He was a person you could rely on, and yet in helping others he never asked for anything in return,” his obituary stated. “Duane loved the outdoors, fishing, and wildlife.
“Duane didn’t judge and he always took you at face value. He was open-minded, very funny and will be remembered for his distinctive laugh.”
Friends planning an expression of remembrance are asked to consider a charity of their choice. Online condolences may be left at www.alexanderandhoulefuneralhome.ca