Claude "Frenchie" Perreault's Obituary
Claude "Frenchie" Perreault passed away peacefully at home on January 21, 2026, with his loving wife holding his hand. He was 61 years old.
Claude was born on February 15, 1964, to Roger Perreault and Jeannine Lamothe in Angliers, Quebec. He spent his childhood in Quebec, where he developed a lifelong love for cars and working with his hands-passions that would follow him throughout his life.
He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Theresa Perreault of Freedom; his daughter, Crystal (Josh) Lee of Freedom; and his five beloved grandchildren, Brooklyn, Joshua, Jayden, Kendra, and Grayson Lee, who were the light of his life. He was a proud Papa and cherished the blessing of living next door to his grandchildren, teaching the older ones how to drive and working on fixing up a dump truck just for them.
Claude is also survived by his Father-in-law Richard O'Shields of Brady Lake, brothers, René (Lilianne) Perreault, Jean-Louis Perreault, and Marc Trudel; his sisters, Suzanne Perreault, Reina Perreault, Louise Perreault, all of Quebec, and Joanne (Terry) Herr of Hiram; along with many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.
Claude fought a long and exhausting battle with double lung cancer and double brain cancer, but he never gave up hope. He beat the odds many times, a true reflection of his determined and resilient personality.
Truck driving was more than a job to Claude-it was who he was. He proudly worked for Brugman Sand & Gravel and later finished his career at D&D Trucking, where he dedicated over 20 years of service. He deeply loved driving semi and building relationships with the customers who adored him. Though his illness prevented him from returning to the road, his heart never left it.
His love of cars continued throughout his life and was passed down to his daughter and grandchildren. You could often find him in the garage, working on vehicles, visiting with friends, or sharing stories.
Claude loved nature and found peace in quiet walks in the woods, bird watching, fishing, riding motorcycles and ATV's, and driving his bright green Challenger-a car that perfectly matched his vibrant personality. Sundays were often spent with friends, enjoying country classics and good company.
He will be remembered as a fun-loving, strong, outgoing man with a great sense of humor who made people laugh and feel welcome wherever he went.
Claude was preceded in death by his parents, Roger Perreault and Jeannine Lamothe; his mother-in-law, Bonnie O'Shields; his grandparents; and many other loved ones.
Family and friends may gather for visitation at Green Funeral Care, 4668 Pioneer Trail, Mantua, on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 from 2 - 6 p.m. Funeral service at the funeral home, Wednesday, January, 28, 2026 at 11 a.m. Interment to follow at Drakesburg Cemetery, Freedom Township.
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