A Life Built on Determination, Kindness, and Love
Andre (Andy) Laberge, devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2025, his family at his side.
Born in Reigate, England on October 12, 1941, to Kathleen Maria Smith and Aimé William Laberge, Andre immigrated to Canada with his mother, a British war bride, through Pier 21. His father followed a year later.
Andre’s early life in Hull, Québec was marked by extreme challenge and poverty. He met these circumstances with remarkable grit, determination, and courage, forging a path through sheer will and an unyielding spirit. His story became a testament to what hard work and perseverance can achieve.
He eventually found his professional calling at the National Research Council Canada (NRC) where he excelled as a soils technician in the emerging field of geotechnical research. His expertise and dedication were integral to numerous major Canadian infrastructure projects, most notably contributing to the engineering analysis for the James Bay Project and the foundation studies for the Confederation Bridge linking Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. Andre was a man who worked diligently and with profound commitment, leaving a tangible legacy in the physical landscape of Canada.
Outside his significant career of 36 years, Andre possessed an enduring passion for sports and the outdoors, always at one with nature. He was an avid sailor, winning many regattas, finding peace and exhilaration on the water. This competitive spirit also thrived on the court; he played competitive basketball well into his 60s, embodying the energy and endurance he brought to every aspect of his life.
It was at NRC where Andre met the love of his life, Janice Nurski. They married and have shared a beautiful, enduring partnership of 42 years, rooted in mutual respect and deep affection.
Andre was a truly humble soul, known for his loving, kind, and generous nature. He always went the extra mile to help others, whether it be through charitable donations or giving a helping hand to neighbours. His quiet strength and profound goodness touched everyone who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Janice; his devoted son, Marek; his cherished daughter-in-law, Rosa, and his two bright grandsons, William and Edward, who will carry his lessons of resilience and kindness forward.
Andre will be remembered with great love. His honesty, wisdom, and gentle smile will be missed by all who knew him.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a Celebration of Life at 10 a.m. on December 11th in the Sacred Space of Beechwood Cemetery and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa). A reception will follow in the Borden Fleming Suite at Beechwood.
As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, donations made in Andre’s name to a charity of choice would be greatly appreciated.
Digital Guestbook
Karen and Richard Gilman
Sheila Burvill and Eric Jones
Back in the early 1980s, a group of Division of Building Research (part of NRC) staff used to meet after work sometimes for pick-up games of slow-pitch softball. Two people would act as captains and then each selected members for their team in turn. Andy was always one of the first to be chosen, no matter who the captains were. He was very athletic, dependable, and skilled at almost every position so it was no wonder that he made a good and valuable team member. But, beyond his physical capabilities, it was his kindness and consideration of others that stood out. He made sure that even the most inept ball player was welcome and felt valuable to the team.
A good man, gone too soon.
Jay Nissanga
I am heartbroken to hear of the loss of your husband. He was a wonderful friend, and I will always cherish the memories we shared. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts, and I am here for you in any way you may need.
Heartfelt sympathy to a life fondly remembered. Friends from the Alpha Course, St Peter and St Paul's