Shirley Paulette (Ricard) Allard

Obituary for Shirley Paulette Allard (née Ricard)

January 11, 1956 – June 18, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Shirley Paulette Allard (née Ricard), who left us peacefully on June 18, 2025, in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, with her loving family at her side. She was 69 years old.

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Shirley was a woman of deep compassion, quiet strength, and unwavering love for her family. She was the beloved wife of Clarence, with whom she shared a life built on devotion, resilience, and shared memories.

Shirley was raised and educated in St. Ambroise and St. Laurent - communities that shaped her strong Métis identity and sense of belonging. She dedicated much of her life caring for others, working for many years at the Lodge in St. Ambroise, where her gentle spirit and kind heart touched countless lives. Most recently, she worked at the Manitoba Métis Federation office in Portage la Prairie, where she offered support and guidance to many in the community. 

Shirley was a very proud Métis woman, and her culture was central to who she was. She was an active member of the Manitoba Métis Federation and the Infinity Women’s Secretariat for many years, working to uplift and empower Métis women and families across the province. Her contributions left a lasting impact on the lives she touched and the community she so deeply loved.

She was predeceased by her parents, Doc and Alma; her beloved children Clarence Jr. and Christine; and her eldest brother, Marcel. Though their absence was deeply felt, Shirley carried their memories with strength and grace throughout her life.

Left to mourn her passing are her daughters, Candice and Jane, her treasured grandchildren: Elizabeth, Kayla, Parker, and Paege. Shirley is also survived by her siblings Wayne, Martha, and Louis, as well as her many nieces and nephews: Patricia, Donna, Ashley, Andrew, Alison and Dustin. She is also survived by numerous great-nieces and great-nephews, Aunts, Uncles, cousins and dear friends who formed her wide and loving extended family. 

Shirley was selfless, always putting others first - through her work, volunteer efforts, and in everyday life. She found joy in simple pleasures: gardening, evening drives, weekend adventures, and time spent with family and friends. Her home was a warm and welcoming place where laughter and love were always present. Shirley will be remembered for her gentle spirit, kind heart, and deep devotion to her family, culture, and community. Her legacy is one of resilience, strength, love and bragging about her Grandchildren. 

A funeral service to celebrate Shirley’s life will be held at St. Ambroise Roman Catholic Church on Saturday, July 5th, 2025 at 11:00 am. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend and share in remembering her life.

We know she is now at peace and hanging out with her loved ones in Heaven. 

Arrangements entrusted to Ronald Moffit Memorial Services of Portage la Prairie, MB. 

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