Defence lawyer Brian Ducharme was a beloved spouse, brother, son, uncle and friend who served his many clients, the legal community and the legal system for decades with great distinction.
Ducharme’s work and service to the people of Ontario was cut short last week when he passed away at 71 years old. His untimely passing is an incredible loss to those who knew and loved him dearly.
A funeral mass for Ducharme was held Monday morning, September 13th, at the Good Shepherd Parish in Lakeshore. Many family members, friends and fellow co-workers were in attendance. Former law partner and dear friend Greg Monforton delivered a heartfelt eulogy sharing memories and words of remembrance.
Ducharme had a special way of making everyone around him feel uplifted. “That was the kind of atmosphere, that atmosphere of happy expectation that being in Brian’s company always seemed to evoke”, said Monforton.
Ducharme’s love of people, politics, justice and country is what shaped his life and career. As a University of Windsor Faculty of Law alumni, he was a pragmatic, articulate and exceptional lawyer. He truly cared about his clients and was devoted to the fundamental principles of the Canadian criminal justice system, the presumption of innocence and the importance of due process.
Ducharme was also deeply involved in politics and dedicated to helping his local community. “He loved what he did and it showed,” said Monforton during the funeral service. “His very considerable legal skills, knowledge and experience will be missed by many.”