Artist Joe Fafard, originally from Ste. Marthe, has died

March 17, 2019, 5:44 am

World renowned sculptor Joe Fafard, who is originally from Ste. Marthe near Rocanville, has passed away. He was 76 years old.

Fafard and his family grew up at St. Marthe and went to high school in St. Lazare.

Fafard was most well known for his sculptures of cattle and horses, harkening back to his rural roots, some of which have been placed at the feet of bank towers in Toronto.

He was a member of the Order of Canada, and the Saskatchewan Order of Merit.

The family issued this statement today:

"It is with deep sorrow that the family of Joe Fafard announces his passing on March 16, 2019, at his home in Lumsden, Saskatchewan. The international visual artist died peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.

According to his partner, Alyce Hamon, “Joe died the way he lived, simply, unpretentiously, in complete serenity, with a twinkle in his eye, but above all with the full love of his family and friends.”

He leaves to mourn his spouse Alyce Hamon, and their children Solenne Hamon-Fafard and Julien Hamon-Fafard, as well as his children Joël Fafard (Megan Mansbridge), Misha Fafard (Darcy Jordan), Gina Fafard (Curtis Sheschuk), their mother Susan Wiebe, and his grandchildren Zach, Fynn, Theo, Maren, and Declan.

A ceremony celebrating the life of Joe Fafard will be held privately by the family. A public ceremony will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages those who wish to, to donate to the Hospitals of Regina Foundation’s palliative care services in Joe’s memory.

Joe Fafard comes from a very artistic family. His sister, Colombe Chartier of St. Lazare is an author and playwright, his son Joel Fafard is an award-winning musician, and his nephew Joey Tremblay is a world-renowned playwright.