BÉLANGER, Carl, MWO (Ret’d), RCLS
It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Carl Bélanger on May 1st, 2025 at the age of 54. Carl tragically lost his life after falling from his boat in the Upper Rideau Lake near Westport. Carl is survived by his loving wife of 35 years Elizabeth and his beloved children Jordan and Justin,
Carl was born in Jonquière on March 23rd, 1971. He joined the Canadian Armed Forces at 17 and he was posted to CFB Calgary (1990) after completing his basic training at CFB Saint-Jean. He was then posted to CFB Trenton (1996) where he became an accomplished parachute instructor, jumper, and rigger. Carl was deployed to several tours of duty – CFS Alert Operation IceShelf, (1997), Peace Keeping mission in Bosnia/Former Yugoslavia (1994), and two tours in Kandahar, Afghanistan (2006 & 2009). Carl retired in January 2018 as a decorated Master Warrant Officer, recently adding to his medal collection the prestigious King’s Coronation Medal, the Sacrifice Medal, and the Legion’s Canada 150th Anniversary medal for his years of contribution to the Legion.
Carl was a devoted father who was immensely proud of his sons. He volunteered with the Carleton Place Minor Hockey Association, Carleton Place Soccer Club, and at their elementary school J.L. Couroux. Carl played a key role in establishing an annual Remembrance Day celebration at the school (2010); a tradition that still lives on today. Recently, Carl advocated to create a crosswalk that leads to the Carleton Place cenotaph on Franklin Street to honour military veterans. This project is a testament to his artistic talent and is ongoing.
Carl was fiercely loyal and protective. He was outgoing and highly sociable; he was impossible to miss in a crowd and was larger than life. His tremendous presence, infectious laugh, and big bear hugs will be truly missed. Carl was multi-talented; he could build or repair anything and he was always ready to lend a hand to others. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and anyone who had the privilege of meeting him. He lived his life to the fullest and left a mark that will never be forgotten.
Donations can be made to www.projecttraumasupport.com , a Canadian program close to Carl’s heart that addresses Post-Traumatic Stress and Operational Stress Injury in military personnel, veterans, and first responders.
A Celebration of Carl’s life is scheduled on Sunday, May 18 from 12pm-4pm at the Royal Canadian Legion located at 177 George Street in Carleton Place. A Legion service will take place at 2pm with Father David Andrew officiating, followed by eulogies from family and friends.