By Hélène Gobeil, Communications and Campaigns Director
It is with sadness that we learned of the passing of Fr. Michel Lacroix on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the age of 85.
Some people leave a mark on an organization that extends far beyond the years they devote to it. Through their presence, their values and the bonds they forge, they leave a lasting impression on the hearts of those who worked with them. This was certainly true of Michel Lacroix.
As a Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada animator from 1980 to 1999, Michel accompanied many with a quality that deeply defined him: sincere and attentive listening. He had that rare talent for taking the time to welcome others, understand their stories and create an atmosphere of trust in which everyone felt valued.
A keen traveler, he viewed encounters with others as a true source of enrichment. Curious about the world and its cultures, he believed exchanges between peoples to be essential for building mutual understanding and solidarity. This openness naturally led him to develop a deep attachment to the Middle East, for which he became a passionate advocate. Through his activism, his personal accounts and his insightful perspective, he helped raise awareness among many people about the realities of this region, always with respect and humanity.
In the Gatineau region, he was especially well-loved by members of our movement. Many remember him as a man who was generous with his time, approachable and able to encourage, advise and inspire. His presence was reassuring; his welcome, unconditional; and his commitment, deeply rooted in the dignity of every person. Here’s how one former colleague remembers him:
“I met Michel Lacroix during my early days as an animator at Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada in 1990. What immediately struck me about him was his unwavering commitment and, above all, his immense curiosity.
“Michel loved to travel, but what fascinated him above all was not just the countries he discovered—it was the people he met along the way. Through the stories he shared of his many journeys, it became clear that the fondest memories he brought back were often those of chance encounters with people who, in the course of a brief conversation, had enriched his view of the world and sometimes even changed the course of his journey.
“Michel was a deeply committed Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada activist throughout his life. His openness to others, his thirst for learning and his loyalty to the organization’s mission will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of working alongside him.”
― Jean-Paul St-Germain, former animator, Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada
Today, we want to express our deepest gratitude to Michel for his journey with us. His legacy lives on through the people he supported, the friendships he nurtured and the values of justice, solidarity and dialogue that he embodied throughout his life.
Thank you, Michel, for your steadfast commitment, your openness to the world and your willingness to listen, which made a real difference. You will remain a source of inspiration for our movement.
Fr. Michel Lacroix’s funeral will be held at 11 a.m. on July 2, 2026, at St. Joseph Cathedral, 245 Saint-Joseph Boulevard, Gatineau (Hull sector), Quebec J8Y 3X5 (see map). The family will receive condolences at the church from 10:15 a.m.