International Opera Singer
It is with great sadness that the family of Pierrette Alarie-Simoneau has to announce that she took her last graceful bow on the stage of life on July 10, 2011. Born on November 9,1921 in Montréal to Amanda and Silva Alarie, she took after her mom (also known as Maman Plouffe in the television series Les Plouffes), and followed in her footsteps. By the age of 9, she was already known in the world of Theatre. After a short career as an actress, she started her now famous path in the world of Opera. She met her husband, Léopold Simoneau (the acclaimed tenor) while studying voice. They were married in 1946. Together they embarked on a great and illustrious international career in the world of Opera and Recitals. She continues to bring joy and passion to the world through the many recordings she made. Among many artistic honours and recognitions, Pierrette Alarie-Simoneau received theOrder of Canada tn 1967, the very first year of the awards and in 1995 was elevated to the rank of Companion of the Order of Canada. She leaves behind 2 very sad daughters, Isabelle and Chantal and together with their respective husbands, Johnny and Bill, wish to express their everlasting gratitude to the staff of Sunrise Senior Living in Victoria, for their dedicated care and deep compassion towards our much loved Maman. She won the heart of everyone she ever met.
At the request of Mme. Alarie there will not be a service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, 2340 Richmond Ave. Victoria, BC, V8R 4R9. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallbros.com
44 Responses
Une grande dame, que Pierrette!
Je n’oublierai jamais sa générosité à mon égard et surtout de m’avoir accueillie, sans jugement, dans son école.
Sympathies et salutations particulières à Isabelle.
Merci.
Christine Lemelin
Une grande dame, une grande artiste, une belle voix que les Anges vont écouter avec tout le respect qu’elle mérite.
Vous avez toutes ma sympathie
Pierrette was a gracious and unassuming individual, always pleasant and cordial to meet. A great artist in various fields,she will certainly be missed by many people. My sympathies to Pierrette’s family.
I was saddened to learn of Pierette’s passing and will long remember her friendly smile and cheerful personality. A greeting and brief chat with her was always uplifting to one’s spirit. Sincere sympathy on this sad loss.
My Dear Isabelle. I spoke of you and your Mother just last week with people who attend the Opera.This is a sad time in your life Your Mother was such a beautiful lady and she will be missed. I think about you and I send you my deepest sympathies.
Marie Gill
We knew Pierrette in retirement and we shared the pleasure of art and painting since 2000. We were fortunate to enjoy a friendship with such a warm, happy, and talented person and we are richer for that experience.
With condolences to her family
Bryan and Betty
Dear Isabelle and family:
I am sad for you today, upon reading of your mother’s passing. You spoke of both your parents and I know you were close.
With much sympathy,
Brenda
With great sadness I heard of Pierrette’s passing only today while away in Toronto. My deepest sympathies go out to Isabel And Chantal. I am so very happy to have known Pierrette as I did. She and Leopold are back together singing Mozart as it was intended and all is right in the world once again.
Mes plus sincères condoléances à la famille.
Je garderai toujours un bon souvenir de la douceur et de la gentissesse de Madame Pierrette Alarie.
Marie Robillard
Deepest condolences on the passing of this great artist. It was my pleasure to have worked in the Chorus of Montreal Opera Company many years ago and to hear her since Micaela in “Carmen” with Shirley Verrett. A deep loss. Blessings!