The Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay mourns the loss of Ronald Perrault

The Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay mourns the loss of Ronald Perrault, who passed away today at the age of 88. As one of the town’s founding residents and its longest-living member, Mr. Perrault leaves behind a legacy deeply woven into the fabric of the community.

Born on September 2, 1937, at the nursing station in Mary's Harbour, Labrador, he spent his early childhood in Makkovik. In 1942, his family moved to Otter Creek to assist in the construction of the Goose Air Base. Just over a year later, on September 26, 1943, they settled in what would become Happy Valley, joining two other families to form the foundation of the town. 

In his youth, Mr. Perrault was an active contributor to the town’s development. He and his father were early leaders in the local Boy Scouts, helping to instill values of service and leadership. He played softball during the community’s formative years and later became a competitive bowler, showing remarkable determination despite being legally blind following a workplace accident.

Mr. Perrault was also a devoted member of the Moravian Church, a faith tradition carried through his maternal grandparents, who served as missionaries along Labrador’s north coast. His spiritual commitment and community involvement were constants throughout his life.

He embraced Labrador’s outdoor lifestyle with enthusiasm, finding joy in hunting, fishing, boating, and snowmobiling—activities that connected him deeply to the land he loved.

In honour of his life and legacy, the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay will lower the flags at Town Hall and extends its deepest condolences to Mr. Perrault’s family.