The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is sad to announce the passing of Métis veteran and citizen Wilfred Rochon.
Wilfred served in the Canadian Army from 1944 to 1946. He was stationed in Vernon, British Columbia, with troops being prepared for an anticipated invasion of Japan. Shortly thereafter, American forces dropped two atomic bombs effectively ending the war in the Pacific. Wilfred was transferred to Gravenhurst, Ontario, where he was a guard for Prisoners of War (mainly German Officers).
Wilfred was always keenly aware of his Métis heritage and joined the MNO in 1998, when along with fellow WWII veteran, Earl Scofield, they formed the MNO Windsor-Essex-Kent Métis Council. Wilfred was the Council’s first President.
Wilfred also went on to serve on the MNO’s Veteran’s Council and in 2011 participated in the National Remembrance Day ceremony in Ottawa.
Wilfred had never attended the national ceremony before and the experience was very special to him. Participating in the ceremony with his fellow veterans he said: “Felt good, it felt like being home.”
Wilfred is survived by his wife Amelia with whom he celebrated 64 years of marriage and his sons Mark, Greg and Jonathan.
The MNO extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Wilfred and thank him for his service. He will be missed.