Jodoin was dedicated to United Way

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Cornwall Standard Freeholder

12 August 2011

By CHERYL BRINK

CORNWALL — A longtime champion for the United Way has passed away.

Keith Jodoin, who was involved with the charity for four decades, died recently at St. Joseph’s Continuing Care Centre. He was 81.

“He certainly was a great icon in the community and he will be truly missed by everyone,” said Karen Turchetto, the current head of the United Way.

Jodoin first volunteered with the agency in 1964, taking the helm as executive director in 1996.

City councillor Glen Grant worked closely with Jodoin during fundraising campaigns.

“Keith was a very hard worker,” he said. “He knew how to fundraise. He was very well liked in the community.”

But Grant said Jodoin didn’t stick to the status quo, instead coming up with innovative ways to collect donations.

“He showed me a lot of techniques, good ways of raising money,” he said. “People generally want to give, it’s how you approach them in giving… He made people feel good about donating to the Untied Way.”

Though it wasn’t all about the money for Jodoin, said Grant.

“He ran the office very efficiently,” he said. “People talk about administrative costs being so high in charities. We maintained that 10% went to administration, the rest went to the agencies.”

Grant said Jodoin’s dedication to helping his community came from a love and concern for his fellow residents, and he has been missed in the last few years as he withdrew from the public eye.

“I personally am going to miss Keith,” he said. “He’ll continue to be missed as far as the United Way is concerned.”

Jodoin retired from the agency in the spring of 2004, at age 73. The charity raised an estimated $13 million in the 40 years that he was involved.

“Keith’s name was synonymous with the United Way,” said Grant. “When you thought of the United Way, you automatically thought of Keith Jodoin.”

A private service was held for the family to commemorate Jodoin’s death.

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Keith Jodoin Obituary

JODOIN, Keith – In keeping with Keith’s wishes, a private ceremony was held to commemorate his peaceful passing at St. Joseph’s Continuing Care Centre. Keith leaves Teresa, his much loved companion of many years, a sister Jean Roy, niece Terry Dumas (Bob) of Brockport, NY, and many other nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Euclide Jodoin and Grace McCutcheon Jodoin, four brothers George, Euclide, Francis, and Curtis and two sisters Edna Denis and Grace McKissock. A heartfelt thank you to Dr. S. Patel and the staff at St. Joseph’s Continuing Care Centre, Second Floor. Their compassion caring and many acts of kindness will always be remembered. Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of LAHAIE & SULLIVAN CORNWALL FUNERAL HOMES, East Branch, 614 First Street East (613-932- 2841). As expressions of sympathy memorial donations St. Joseph’s Continuing Care Centre would be appreciated by the family. Messages of condolences may be left at www.lahaiesullivan.com 10451912

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