Bonnie James
After battling esophageal cancer, Mayor Doug Rousselle passed away on September 11 at the Deep River and District Hospital at the age of 73. He’s survived by wife Joanne Rousselle, two children, and grandchildren.
Serving as mayor since November 2021, Rousselle’s impact was felt. MRC Warden Jane Toller said he “was a strong advocate on many issues, including forestry, public safety, and economic revitalization. Even during his illness, Doug contributed to the work of the various committees and councils on which he sat, never missing a meeting.” Toller went on to say Rouselle was extremely proud of Rapides-des-Joachims and had great vision and plans for its future, playing a pivotal role in the reopening of Commonwealth Plywood last fall. The new splash pad in Rapides, which Rousselle worked to get funding for, will be named in his honour.
The MRC Pontiac flag has been lowered to half-mast at the office and a moment of silence will be observed at the September 20 MRC meeting where mayors can speak in his honour.
A visitation will be held September 23 from 10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m. at the Valley Funeral Home in Deep River. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 a.m. In Rouselle’s memory, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or to the Deep River and District Hospital Foundation.
