Elwood Harold Desserre
June 16, 1961 – November 5, 2024
It is with deep sorrow and enduring love, we announce the passing of Elwood Harold Desserre, on November 5, 2024, at the age of 63. Elwood passed away peacefully, surrounded by cherished family and friends who filled the room with stories, laughter, and the warmth of shared memories.
Born in Fort Frances, Ontario, Elwood was the beloved son of Alphonse and Sophie Desserre, and the youngest of seven children. Growing up on the family farm in Stratton, Elwood spent his early years helping around the farm and being chased around by his older siblings.
He eventually made his home in Dryden on Anton Road, later moving in with his sister Alvina and her husband Chris, who cared for him with boundless devotion. For the last 14 years, Elwood lived with Community Living, where he created a life full of friendship and joy. There, he had the pleasure of living with two of his best buds, Leslie and Bob, who brought him endless laughter and companionship.
Elwood attended George P. Vanier school, where he developed many lifelong friendships and discovered his love for athletics. A competitive spirit and a determined heart led him to become a powerlifter and an avid bowler, proudly representing his community in the Special Olympics. Elwood also found a welcoming community at McDonald’s where he worked for over 30 years. His retirement in 2018 was bittersweet, as Elwood’s presence was irreplaceable to both his coworkers and the many customers he charmed daily.
Known for his charisma, Elwood was a true “ladies” man, never missing an opportunity to light up a room or sweep a pretty girl off her feet. But it was Phyliss Halverson who truly captured his heart. Phyliss became the love of his life, his soulmate, and later his wife. Their bond was unmistakable, and their love was an inspiration to all who knew them. To Elwood, Phyllis was his world, his gaze and heart were forever devoted to her alone.
Elwood leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter that continues through his family. He is survived by his brothers, Valbert (Wendy) of Edmonton and Howard (Debbie) of Fort Frances. He will be dearly missed by his many nieces and nephews, cousins, and extended family, each of whom held a special place in his heart and were touched by his boundless affection and humor. Elwood was predeceased by his beloved wife, Phyllis, his parents Alphonse and Sophie, his brothers Gary and Wilton, his sisters Alvina and Phyliss, and his best bud, Leslie Catlin.
Elwood’s legacy is one of joy, kindness, and authenticity. Those who knew him will always remember his generous spirit, infectious laughter, and genuine appreciation for life’s simplest moments. His memory lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
Visitation will take place at the Dryden Community Funeral Home between 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, November 7, 2024.
A Traditional Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, November 8, 2024 at The Centre with Mardi Plomp officiating at 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made via cash or cheque to the “Elwood Desserre Memorial Fund” in support of individuals at Community Living Dryden. A box for donations will be available at the luncheon following the service, or you may mail it to: Box 27 Site 204 RR#3, Dryden, ON P8N 3G2
Condolences may be posted to www.dcfh.ca
Arrangements entrusted to the Dryden Community Funeral Home,
249 Grand Trunk Ave. Dryden, ON P8N 2X3
