CHAPLEAU EXPRESS
Local News Weekly
705 - 864 - 2785
Free to Every Household
Vol. 30, Issue 24, March 5, 2026
705 - 864 - 0911
A Legacy of Love: $50,000 Gift Gives Back to the Hospital That Once Gave Care By Marie-Ève Guitard
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or more than 50 years, Dianne and René Decosse called Chapleau home. In that time, they did more than live here — they helped shape the very heart of our community. René Decosse, longtime owner of the Chapleau Sentinel, was a familiar and respected figure. Through local journalism, he helped tell the stories that connected neighbours, celebrated milestones, and strengthened community spirit. His work ensured that Chapleau’s voice was heard and its history preserved. Alongside him, Dianne Decosse dedicated her career to education. As a teacher in our community for many years, she guided, encouraged, and inspired generations of students. Her classroom was more than a place of learning — it was a space where young people were supported, challenged, and empowered to grow.
Eventually, Dianne and René returned to Winnipeg to be closer to family. But Chapleau remained deeply rooted in their hearts. In 2003, René suffered a stroke. Dianne recalls that during those difficult weeks in hospital, the physicians and nurses provided exceptional care — compassionate, attentive, and unwavering. It was a time filled with uncertainty, yet also with gratitude for the skilled professionals who stood beside them. René passed away on March 30, one year ago. In his memory, and as a reflection of their enduring love for this community, Dianne made an extraordinary gift: a $50,000 donation to the Path of Comfort Campaign at Chapleau Health Services. She shared simply over the phone, “Chapleau Health Services was first on my list.” That statement speaks volumes. Dianne’s generosity is not only a tribute to her beloved husband — it is a testament to the
gratitude she carries for the care they received and to the community that was their home for half a century. Her gift will directly support the purchase of new beds in the acute care wing, enhancing safety and comfort for patients when they need it most. In small communities like ours, provincial funding does not cover every essential piece of life-saving or comfortfocused equipment. It is individuals like Dianne who ensure that our hospital can continue to provide exceptional care close to home. Her contribution is more than a donation. It is a legacy — one built on love, service, and appreciation. To Dianne Decosse, thank you. Your kindness will touch countless lives, just as you and René have touched this community for decades. Chapleau is better because you called it home.
Un héritage d'amour : un don de 50 000 $ redonne à l'hôpital qui a autrefois offert ses soins Par Marie-Ève Guitard
Long Term Forecast Thursday High -6 Low -8 Friday High 2 Low 2 Saturday High 4 Low -6 Sunday High 4 Low 0 Monday High 6 Low -4 Tuesday High 0 Low -13
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endant plus de 50 ans, Dianne et René Decosse ont appelé Chapleau leur chez-eux. Durant tout ce temps, ils n’y ont pas seulement vécu — ils ont contribué à façonner le cœur même de notre
communauté. René Decosse, propriétaire de longue date du Chapleau Sentinel, était une figure bien connue et respectée. Par son travail en journalisme local, il a su raconter les histoires qui rapprochaient les voisins, célébraient les étapes importantes et renforçaient l’esprit communautaire. Grâce à lui, la voix de Chapleau a été entendue et son histoire préservée. À ses côtés, Dianne Decosse a consacré sa
carrière à l’éducation. Enseignante dans notre communauté pendant de nombreuses années, elle a guidé, encouragé et inspiré des générations d’élèves. Sa classe était bien plus qu’un lieu d’apprentissage — c’était un espace où les jeunes étaient soutenus, stimulés et encouragés à s’épanouir. Éventuellement, Dianne et René sont retournés à Winnipeg pour se rapprocher de leur famille. Mais Chapleau est toujours demeuré profondément ancré dans leur cœur. Cont’d on P.2
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