Obituaries

It is with great sadness that the family of Vital Monette announces his passing on March 26, 2026 in Regina, Saskatchewan. Born on January 9, 1937 in Gravelbourg, Saskatchewan, Vital was the beloved son of David Luc Monette and Gilberte Emilie Monette (née Roy).

Vital spent his childhood in Lac Pelletier Village, where he grew up surrounded by the close knit prairie community he cherished throughout his life. He attended Lac Pelletier Village School in his younger years, forming early friendships and memories that stayed with him always. Vital was the youngest of eight children, a role that shaped his warm, easygoing nature and deep appreciation for family.

Vital is survived by his devoted wife of 70 years, Shirley Louise Monette (née Gowan). Vital and Shirley were inseparable throughout their long and beautiful marriage - a partnership grounded in love, hard work, laughter, and shared adventures. Together, they raised three children Cindy, Roy, and Carol.

He is also lovingly remembered by his sister Bernadette Riediger, the last surviving member of his immediate family.

Vital married Shirley in September 1956, beginning a life together filled with determination, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to family. Early in their marriage, they lived for a short time in Port Alberni, British Columbia, before returning to Saskatchewan, where they made their home at Lac Pelletier Village and later purchased land in the Simmie area.

A man of many talents, Vital owned and operated a trucking company in his early career. In 1960, he and Shirley managed the Simmie Hotel. Shortly after, they purchased land in the Simmie area. For 50 years, they ranched together - a life shaped by Vital’s deep love for the land, his horses, and his cattle.

In addition to ranching, Vital was a bonded cattle buyer, a role well suited to his keen eye for livestock and his deep understanding of the cattle industry. He spent countless hours appreciating the beauty of the ranch and the animals he cared for with such pride and dedication.

Music was one of Vital’s greatest joys. He played guitar, sang, and yodelled as a member of the VN Ranch Boys Band, and he had a lifelong love of Western music, which brought him comfort and happiness throughout the years. Rodeos were another passion. He and Shirley loved attending them, and they even hosted rodeo and team roping competitions on their own ranch, reflecting their strong ties to the ranching and rodeo community.

For more than 40 years, one of Vital’s favourite pastimes was travelling to Arizona in their motorhome. He and Shirley cherished these winter journeys, building friendships, soaking in the sunshine, and creating countless memories together on the open road.

Vital will be remembered as a hard-working rancher, a gifted musician, and a gentle soul who deeply loved his family. His legacy lives on in the land he nurtured, the music he shared, and the many memories held by those who were blessed to know him.

He was a true cowboy in every sense of the word - steady, humble, strong in spirit, and dedicated to the life he loved. The Bull’s Eye Bar Ranch was not just his home; it was his heart. His passion for that land, his livestock, and the cowboy way of life will remain forever woven into the story of his family and the prairies he called home.

A private family service will be held at a later date.