In Memory of Penny Levesque

Penny Loraine Levesque (nee Johnston) was born in Montreal, Quebec.  She was the daughter of William Norman John Johnston and Margerita Marie Johnston (nee Kingnan).  Penny was married to Peter Norman Levesque in 1990. Together, they had two wonderful children, Matthew Alexandre Levesque (26) and Caitlin Elisabeth Levesque (24).

Penny studied at the Villa Maria High School, Collège Marianopolis, Concordia University (B.Comm), and Osgoode Hall Law School (Juris Doctor).  Her career in law began in 1991, followed by a part-time career in business while caring for Matthew and Caitlin.  Penny entered the Public Service of Canada in 1999. She was very proud of her service to Canadians, providing leadership as a senior executive in a range of portfolios including Indian Residential Schools Resolution Canada, Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages, Service Canada, and most recently to Status of Women Canada.

Penny loved her music, reading, and journaling.  She really loved her children and all sorts of animals.  If there was a child or animal in need, Penny was there to help.  Young people and puppies found shelter in her home.  All were welcome, whether for a meal, a bed, or a bus pass.  Her heart was big as her will.  She hated being a passenger on Peter’s motorcycle, so she took the test, received her M class, and bought her own. Together, Penny and Peter rode all over Eastern Ontario and Southern Quebec.  Travels included trips all over the world – family journeys and romantic getaways.  While not an independent adventurer, Penny was ready to follow Peter to the ends of the earth.

In December 2018, Penny went on a lovely cruise to the Caribbean with Peter.  She came back fresh and ready for Christmas with family and the promise of 2019.  Following a simply lovely holiday, together with family, Penny fell suddenly ill. She was admitted to The Ottawa Hospital – General Campus. Attended by a top-level team who tried everything to treat her but with no response, she passed away quietly surrounded by family and the people who loved her.

Penny Loraine Levesque will remain in the hearts of those who loved her.  She will be deeply missed.

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