Obituary of Joseph Gerald Dufresne

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph Gerald “Serge” Dufresne, surrounded by his family at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton, New Brunswick, on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at the age of 67. Born in Rivers, Manitoba, on September 28, 1958, he was the son of the late Bernard Dufresne and Estelle Desrosiers.

Serge is survived by his devoted partner, Cindy. He was the proud father of Chrissy (Calvin) of Kalamazoo, MI, Robert (Erika) of Lincoln, NB, Bianca (Ian) of Windsor, ON, and Chris (France) of Laval, QC. His grandchildren, MacKenzie, James, Makayla, Kaelyn, Brooklyn, Nathan, and Shane will all miss him dearly. He also leaves behind his siblings, Regent, Bernard, Phillip (Sylvie), Gerald, and Jacques. He will be missed by many friends he made throughout his life.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Serge served in the Canadian Armed Forces for 31 years with the 12 RBC Regiment. His career brought him, and sometimes more than once, to Gagetown, NB, Victoria, BC, Valcartier, QC, ending his military career at the Windsor Regiment RCAC in Windsor, ON. From 1992-1993, he was deployed for a tour of duty in Bosnia and Herzegovina. After retiring from the army, the Commissionaire’s workforce became an important stepping stone towards civilian life; a place where he was able to use the discipline and management skills he learned from his service in the military.

In retirement, Serge was an avid golfer, playing many courses with Cindy throughout Canada and the United States. He spent his winters in Florida, always anxious to take off in his RV to start the long journey each year. He always looked forward to stopping in Windsor for a round of golf with his friends upon returning from Florida.

Serge was a man of many talents and was particularly good with his hands. Whether he was strumming a guitar, driving golf balls, putting up sheets of drywall, or remodeling an entire bathroom, he was always the best man for the job or to ask for advice. Big man, big heart.

Serge was quite literally larger than life. His infectious energy and ability to make you laugh and brighten your day is mourned by all those who ever crossed his path. His flame shined bright until his final moments, his character never swaying. He displayed inspiring courage and a resilience to remain authentic and true to himself and his values, even in his most difficult times.

A private graveside service will take place at a later date. For those who wish, donations in Serge’s memory may be made to The Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Fund to assist with Veterans Affairs.