It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of René Rivard — artist, humanitarian, and opera lover. He passed away on Jun 17, 2025.
He was predeceased by his parents Roch and Hosanna Rivard, his brother Roger, and his life partner, Laurentin Lévesque. He leaves in mourning his three sisters: Hélène (Roger), Armande (Ghislain), and Ginette (David), as well as his many nieces and nephews: Nicole, Sylvie, Paul, Charles, Philippe, Robert, Éric, and Julie. We must also remember all the friends he encountered throughout his journey on this earth.
As an artist, René was the spiritual son of Lawren Harris (Group of Seven). A child of the North, René loved to walk near lakes and mountains. From these beautiful landscapes, he drew form, color, and beauty, which he passed through his unique mind to create paintings that captured the eye, stimulated the spirit, and soothed the heart.
As a humanitarian, he volunteered, intervened, and served as a director and board member for various organizations focused on mental health, the Deaf community, deafness and mental health, and the LGBTQ community, to name a few. He touched many lives in these communities.
Finally, opera was his great love. He attended many opera performances with Opéra Lyra, the Canadian Opera Company, the Glimmerglass Opera House (with Lyne, Roseanne, and Laurentin), and at the Met in cinemas.
René was a special soul who left a lasting impression on many lives through his presence and kindness.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to Bruce House or the Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health.
A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, August 2, 2025 from 1pm to 4pm. It will take place at the Ottawa Conference Centre, 200 Conventry Road, Ottawa, ON K1K 4S3.