Mr. Speaker, Father Marcel de la Sablonnière, or Father Sablon to those who knew him well, died on Saturday at the age of 81.
Born in 1918, Father Sablon was appointed in 1952 to the position of director of the Centre de loisirs Immaculée-Conception, in Montreal, a function he performed wisely and capably for more than 40 years. He saw the potential of sports and recreation to provide a goal for certain troubled youth and to keep others from dropping out of the running. His many achievements included founding the Auberge du P'tit Bonheur in 1962.
Those working directly or indirectly with children will never forget Father de la Sablonnière. At a time when our young people too often tell us they have no leaders, Father Sablon filled this void for many of them, and they will be forever grateful.
Thank you, Father, for your generous efforts to improve the lives of our young Quebecers.