MATTE, Clair - It is with a deep sense of sadness that we announce the passing of Claire Matte at the age of 88 in Ajax, Ontario on July 17, 2020.

Born Marie Claire Heppell in St. Anaclet, Québec to parents Wilfrid and Philomène (born Côté) Heppell, Claire is survived by her ever loyal, loving, and supportive husband Edward Matte, her two devoted children; ‘her boys’ Jean-Pierre and Michel Matte, and her caring daughters-in-law, Patricia Schmidt and Sarah Haley Matte.

Claire leaves behind her three cherished grandchildren Amélie Matte Zakaib (‘Ammie’ and husband Scott), Alexander Matte (‘Alec’ and fiancée Nicole) and Paul Matte.

She is additionally survived by her two sisters Clémence Pelletier and Colette Brosseau who live in the Sherbrooke, Québec area.

She will be reunited with siblings Jean-Pilippe, Vianney, Jean-Marie, Madelaine, Alvarez, Joseph, Bertrand, Hélène and FranÇoise.  Claire’s life journey began in the small town of St. Anaclet Québec near Rimouski.

With her family she later moved to Drummondville and then ventured out on her own to Sherbrooke. It was in these two cities and within a large Catholic family upbringing that her unique social character began to take shape. In these settings, Claire established herself professionally as an outstanding salesperson representing and selling women’s fashion.

This was paused after she met Edward in Sherbrooke, eventually they married in 1960 (Drummondville), and Claire became the lone ‘Heppell’ of her family to venture outside of Québec to permanently settle in Ontario (Sault Ste. Marie).

In retirement, Claire enjoyed her move to Ottawa and winters at their Daytona Beach (Holy Hill) Florida home, as well as an eventual move to Ajax, Ontario to be closer to her boys and their families.

A formal funeral is not planned at this time. A celebration of life may be announced at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, the family would be grateful for any contributions made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

DurhamObituaries.com