Since 1845, Lépine Cloutier / Athos has been supporting Quebec families through life’s most significant moments, especially during the loss of a loved one. Founded by Germain Lépine in Quebec City, and later joined by Charles Cloutier in 1856, the company has grown while preserving its heritage deeply rooted in the community. This year, Lépine Cloutier / Athos is celebrating its 180th anniversary, a testament to trust and closeness with families across Quebec.
A History Deeply Rooted in Quebec Tradition
The first collaborations between the Lépine et Cloutier / Athos families date back to 1914, but it was in 1975 that they officially merged to create Lépine Cloutier Ltée. The company quickly stood out thanks to its continuous growth and significant innovations:
- 1892: the first embalming performed in Quebec City, a revolutionary practice that later became standard in the funeral field.
- 1929: acquisition of the region’s first automobile hearse, a symbol of modernity at the time.
- 1973: the first funeral home in Quebec City to offer cremation services and a columbarium.
- 1970s: creation of the first cemetery gardens (La Souvenance and Les Jardins Québec), followed later by a unique eco-responsible memorial forest.
Over time, Lépine Cloutier / Athos also made history by paving the way for the first woman to lead a funeral home in Quebec. Malvina Racicot managed the company with vision and compassion for over 20 years. Thanks to this spirit of innovation, Lépine Cloutier / Athos remains a landmark for families, combining respect for tradition with adaptability to new realities.
The Central Role of Grief Support
Beyond funeral arrangements, grief support is a core mission for Lépine Cloutier / Athos. Their professional teams are present before, during, and after the ceremony, offering continuous and compassionate support to grieving families.
Personalized Support
Each family receives attentive listening to identify their needs, emotions, and values. The goal is to allow loved ones to grieve at their own pace while feeling supported in their decision and steps.
Every service respects the traditions, values, and wishes of the deceased and their family. As André-Marie Coudou, General Manager at Lépine Cloutier / Athos, explains: "At Lépine Cloutier / Athos, we know that thoughtful support can transform a painful ordeal into a moment of comfort. That’s why we put people, respect, and listening at the heart of our mission, so that every family can go through this stage with dignity and support."
Tailored Resources and Workshops
Lépine Cloutier / Athos offers free programs to guide families through the grieving process. These services include monthly discussion groups, personalized meetings with a Deuil-Jeunesse counselor, creative workshops, and commemorative events adapted to the specific needs of each family.
Ongoing Support
Support does not end with the ceremony. To ease the burden, the team offers personalized follow-ups including a telephone consultation with a notary to answer questions and relieve additional stress. The director also handles the preparation of legal documents and provides families with the necessary tools to notify relevant organizations.
Practical resources, such as managing social media accounts after death, are also available. This continuity of care helps families navigate this difficult time with greater peace of mind.
Contact Lépine Cloutier / Athos to learn more
The Expertise and History of Other Athos Banners
While Lépine Cloutier / Athos holds a central place in Quebec’s funeral history, Athos Services Commémoratifs also brings together other renowned banners. "The Athos Group unites historic and innovative banners that together offer more than 480 years of expertise. This knowledge allows us to honor every loved one with compassion, while respecting diverse cultures, and emphasizing accessibility and innovation," says Patrice Chavegros, VP of Marketing and Development.
In the upcoming articles, you will be able to learn more about these other emblematic banners: Le Complexe funéraire Aeterna et Crématorium, Les Espaces MEMORIA, and Urgel Bourgie.
A Shared Heritage with Quebec Families
Together, Lépine Cloutier / Athos, Urgel Bourgie / Athos, Les Espaces MEMORIA and Aeterna represent more than 480 years of combined history serving families. These banners embody a tradition of excellence, innovation, and above all, human and personalized support. Thanks to the diversity of their teams, they are able to respectfully and sensitively support all the communities that make up Greater Montreal and Quebec, helping families navigate grief with compassion and care.
When facing the loss of a loved one, it may also become necessary to relocate a relative to a senior living residence to ensure their daily safety, comfort, and well-being. During these delicate times, Bonjour Résidences is here to guide you step by step, help you evaluate your options, and find the senior living residence that best matches your family’s needs and values. Contact our senior housing specialists at 1 844 918-1020 or fill out an online request today.