There were many comments on the Neomedia Facebook page, following our article on the death of Father Gérald Sareault on July 25. The feeling that emerges is one of sadness, mixed with memories of a human and joyful man, who embellished and softened the lives of many Lazarois for 35 years.

He was present for discussions, baptisms, weddings and funerals. More than 80 people spoke out. Here are a few excerpts from those comments:

"A man with a heart as big as the earth, warm, sincere, positive.

"An outstanding man in his community.

"We thank him for having been there...

"A great man has left us.

"It's a great loss for the Saint-Lazare community.

"... so kind and funny.

"He was known for his sense of humor.

"He married my parents and baptized me...

"He baptized my son. I wanted to relive the magic that only he had the gift of transmitting with my daughter.

"Anyone who knew this man is in mourning.

"A man who always called us by our first names.

"A kind, just, joyful man.

"He married my parents and baptized me."

His remains will lie in state at the Saint-Lazare church on Thursday, August 3, 2023, from 2 to 5 pm and 7 to 9 pm.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 4, at 11 a.m., in the Saint-Lazare church. His remains will be subsequently cremated and interred in the same cemetery at a later date.