We Remember

LAUNAIS, Noel Rene

December 13, 1946 — July 13, 2026

Born in Mons, France, Noel was the youngest child of Madeleine and Rene Launais.

As an adolescent, Noel attended seminary school with a view to entering the priesthood. Before he could pursue that calling he was drafted by the French military and did his obligatory service to his country. After completing his stint in the French Army, Noel entered culinary school in Paris, and quickly found that he excelled in the Culinary Arts. The school in Paris introduced him to the world of gastronomy; it was a passion that consumed Noel for the rest of this life.

His talents in the culinary world were well-known, and they led him to a storied career that took him to many corners of the world. He was highly sought after and received opportunities to work in many places, some were: London, England; Abu Dhabi, UAE; Toronto, Ontario; Cairo, Egypt; Paris, France; Vancouver, B.C.; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

He met the love of his life, Meike, while working in Toronto. After they married, she was by his side throughout all his many postings. Although they had no children, they were blessed with many friends around the globe. After retiring and settling in West Kelowna, they continued to grow their circle of friends.

One of Noel’s life-long interests was aviation. He earned his pilot’s license and spent countless hours exploring the wild blue yonder. Even after his flying days were over, he continued to study the sciences of aviation and meteorology.

Meike pre-deceased Noel; and after living alone for many years, he decided to move to Missionwood Retirement Resort. He loved living at Missionwood where he met many new friends. Noel enjoyed the sense of community and the friendly lifestyle that Missionwood provided.

Noel will be remembered by his unmistakable intelligence, his rapier wit, his dapper demeanour, and his obvious kindness.

He passed away quietly in his sleep and will be mourned by many, including his in-laws from Ontario, and by all of his many friends worldwide.

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