Mary Decheno
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Mary Louise Decheno (née Whiteduck), who peacefully left this world on April 21, 2025, at the age of 92, surrounded by family and love at Nipissing Manor in Corbeil, Ontario.
Mary was born on December 1, 1932, at a Red Cross Nursing Station in Rutherglen, Ontario, to Beatrice (née Faubert) and Lawrence Whiteduck (both predeceased). She lived a life filled with creativity, compassion, and spirited warmth. Known for her kind heart and open mind, Mary welcomed people as they were—offering friendship, support, and understanding to anyone in need, regardless of age or circumstance. Even though she was small, her feisty nature didn’t let anyone ignore her if something needed to be said, or the right thing done.
A lifelong nurturer, Mary had a deep love for the outdoors, gardening, animals, storytelling, and spending time with her family and friends. She took great joy in creating beautiful things with her hands and treasured the simple pleasures of life, especially a good cup of tea or coffee shared over conversation or a good book.
Mary is predeceased by her siblings, Robert and Peter Whiteduck, and sisters Molly Ringuette, Jackie Whalley, Patricia Duquette, and Theresa Sampson. She is survived by her cherished sisters Marjorie Weber, Shirley Marcotte, and Lorraine Liberty.
She was a devoted wife to Ernest Decheno (predeceased), with whom she shared many wonderful years on their small farm in Onaping Falls. After they retired to Mattawa, she continued raising her family with love and care until Ernest's passing in 1981. In later years, Mary shared companionship and adventure with Richard Butler, enjoying road trips, her flower beds, and even raising ducks and chickens together in Monetville one summer.
Mary will be lovingly remembered by her children: Judi Thorkelson (Paul Wilson), Rick Decheno (Joanne), Fred Decheno (Joyce), Ernie Decheno (predeceased), and Kimberly Stoneypoint (Robert). She was a proud grandmother to Sandra, Jason, Clayton, Travis, Wade, Wyatt, Fred Jr., Jimmy, Jennifer, Dallas, Shane, and Hawk, and a beloved great-grandmother, aunt and cousin to many.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff of Nipissing Manor for their compassionate and dedicated care.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the North Bay Humane Society or a pet rescue of your choice would be appreciated.
Visitation at McGuinty’s Funeral Home, 591 Cassells St, North Bay, ON, on Sunday April 27, 2025 and will begin at 12:00 noon and end at 4:00 p.m., followed by a small family service. All who knew and loved Mary are welcome to attend and honour her memory.
Internment will be at a later date.
