Obituary of Chantal Jeanine Andrée Livernois

In loving memory of Chantal Jeanine Andrée Livernois

November 18, 1941 – February 23, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our mother, Chantal J. Livernois at the age of 83 on February 23, 2025.

Chantal lived in Southgate, Michigan where she was a dedicated homemaker who was devoted to her home and community.  She and her husband, Daniel Livernois, were proud to raise their 6 children there.  Chantal was a member of the Catholic faith, and it was important to Chantal and Daniel that their six children completed the holy sacraments of the Catholic church. The foundation of Chantal’s faith, beliefs and culture all began in Orléans, France where Chantal was born on November 18, 1941.  Chantal was born during the perils of World War II.  Chantal’s family - her mother, father and brother André - had to endure taking shelter during bombardments at the height of the war.  It was during one of these horrible air raids that Chantal lost her father.  After the war ended, Chantal continued to live in the town of Orléans with her mother and brother. 

Orleans recovered from the war and Chantal was proud of her historic hometown - the birthplace of St. Joan of Arc, the patron saint of Orléans.  Mom cherished memories of the annual St. Joan of Arc festival that occurred every year on the 8^th of May, to honor this female icon who helped save the French people. 

It was in Orléans, France where Daniel Livernois was assigned to serve in the United States Army and where Chantal and Daniel met.  It was love at first sight, and soon they were engaged to be married.  They wed in Orléans at the historic Mairie d’Orléans or City Hall in 1960.  The newlyweds returned from France and chose to build their lives together in the United States.  Mom embraced living in America and enjoyed all of the opportunities of living in this country.  Her heart always belonged to her country of birth and its vibrant culture, fashion and cuisine. 

Mom was proud of maintaining a spotless home.  It was not an easy job with six energetic children in the home.  As she worked, she would often play records of the great French chanson or singers, whose storytelling and poetic lyrics, like Edith Piaf and Charles Aznavour, brought mom back to her youth and to the place of her birth.  

Mom also enjoyed the art of shopping. She enjoyed getting the most value for the items that she purchased and she was proud of the things that she curated for her wardrobe and for her home.  Whether it was just getting ready for the day, going to the grocery store, or running errands, mom always took care of her appearance and she had a sense of style.  Mom was regularly complimented on how well she dressed and she always carried herself with elegance. She continued to speak with an alluring French accent and she was often asked about the beautiful French language.  

Mom’s world shattered when her beloved husband, Daniel, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack in the family home.  Her world would never be the same.  She persisted and was now a single mother to 6 children ranging in ages from elementary school to early adulthood.  The family came together and did their best to support one another.  Mom continued to find happiness in the things that she enjoyed.  Mom was a prolific reader who had an extensive book collection.  Mom was a regular library patron and she enjoyed biographies and mystery novels.  Mom loved her children, her pet dog, going for walks and being at home.  Mom enjoyed many of the simpler things in life and she would never turn down a croissant and a hot cup of brewed coffee.  

As the years passed, mom continued to find comfort and take pride in her home and her family.  She always had a sharp wit and an eye for detail.  Mom was able to live life how she wanted, on her own terms, and mom could always be counted on to tell you exactly how she felt.  Mom never shied away from an honest answer and you always knew where you stood with mom.  When mom listened to one of her favorite singers, Edith Piaf, the words of the song “Je ne regrette rien” resonate with how mom chose to live her life – live so you can say “I regret nothing”.  Now, she is back in the arms of her true love, our father, and her beloved daughter Ariane.  

Chantal is preceded in death by her husband, Daniel Livernois, and daughter Ariane Livernois.  Her only sibling, André and his wife Collette, are also in heaven with our mother.  

Chantal is survived by her loving children:  Marc (Sharon) and grandchildren Daniel (Noelle) great-grandchild Chloe & Ryan (Jackie), Matt (Rena) and grandchildren Cara, Meghan & Matthew, Chris (Julie) (the late Kym Livernois) and grandchildren Blake and Olivia, Chantal, Daniele (Tony) and grandchild Anthony.   

Mom will be deeply missed.  But we take comfort in knowing that we will all be together again one day, and we will be a family reunited.  

“And He will raise you up on eagle’s wings, 

Bear you on the breath of dawn, 

Make you to shine like the sun, 

And hold you in the palm of His hand.”