LCol (Retired) Paul-Alain Monpas

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Father Paul-Alain Monpas on October 2, 2024, at the age of 74. He was the son of the late Paul-Émile Monpas and Hélène Forget. 

Paul Alain was born in Montreal on December 15, 1949, where he studied philosophy, theology and counselling.  From 1971 to 1981, Paul Alain worked for the Quebec Provincial Correctional Service and Youth Protection as a counsellor for prisoners, young offenders and juvenile prostitutes. In 1981, he was ordained a priest in the Franciscan Order. He then continued his work as a counsellor, but with prisoners at the Bordeaux Detention Centre in Montreal.

In June 1986, Paul Alain made the leap to the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and became a military chaplain. He served our valiant members of the CAF for twenty years. He was posted to CFB Gagetown, 4 Wing Cold Lake, CFB Kingston and 8 Wing Trenton. With his promotion to the rank of lieutenant-colonel in 2000, Paul Alain was assigned to the 1^st Canadian Air Division in Winnipeg as the senior chaplain, then ended his career at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa, where he successively held the positions of senior chaplain for the Royal Air Force, the Royal Navy and the CAF Health Care Services Group. He retired in 2006 to become Manager of the National Military Cemetery and Director of the Pastoral Support Programme for Veterans. With the abolition of the position in 2010, Paul Alain finally took a well-deserved retirement. He spent his winters in Mexico and his summers at his cottage enjoying his beloved garden.

Paul Alain was an exceptional man, always warm and welcoming. His sincere smile and kindness instantly put people at ease. He knew how to listen attentively, offering a space where everyone feels valued and respected. His love for others shone through in his manners whether it was a simple word of encouragement or an act of kindness. Never judgmental, he welcomed diversity with an open heart, creating a harmonious environment. His ability to connect with people, to share authentic moments, made him an unforgettable person who was deeply appreciated by all.

Friends are invited to gather and pay respects Friday October 18th at the Hall of Colours of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Ave. after 12:30p.m. Garveside Service will be held at the National Military Cemetery of the Canadian Forces at 2:00p.m. followed by a reception. 

It is important to acknowledge the exceptional work of the staff at Ottawa's Stonemont Residence for their compassionate care during the final weeks of Paul Alain's life. For those who wish to offer expressions of sympathy, memorial donations to the charity of your choice or to the Montfort Hospital Foundation in Ottawa would be greatly appreciated.