Desdowd Icon Patrick Marion Retires

September 20, 2024

On September 11, more than 200 industry guests and colleagues celebrated Patrick Marion’s 35-year career history to the day. Guests travelled from across the country – some from as far as Vancouver and Halifax – to join those from Montreal and Toronto to celebrate Patrick’s career. Held at a prestigious golf club in La Prairie, QC, the event featured a photo booth, networking reception, dinner, and live music.

This event was a retirement party like no other. The event was emceed by Yves Martin, a close friend of Patrick, and JS Bercier who gave a heartfelt speech about his business partner and mentor. Patrick received three standing ovations during the evening, from his grand entrance to the speeches.

His parents, Jaqueline and Marcel, 85 and 87 years old respectively, were also on hand and were beyond proud of their son and the business he built at Desdowd, as well as his entire career in the electrical industry.

Patrick’s partner Caroline was equally proud of him as well. There were several guests names mentioned in recognition in Patrick’s speech who all supported his quest to excel in the industry, as well as owning Desdowd. Patrick received several gifts, one being a high end guitar and case, as Patrick is planning to learn to play the guitar during retirement.

Patrick says he will still come into work occasionally as a consultant, adding he may be late coming in the morning after his retirement party. Electro Federation Canada, Quebec Region and CEMRA were mentioned very positively throughout speeches regarding all of Patrick’s contributions. Patrick is a two time recipient of the CEMRA Person of the Year Award, the Quebec Region Personality of the Year Award, and was previously the Chair of  CEMRA, and the Quebec Region.

CEMRA Team Lead, and long time friend, Nathalie Lajoie, was also invited to the special celebration.

“I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” she says. “It was a true honour to be present for Patrick, as he is a close friend, and association partner. He has contributed so much to the electrical industry, and especially CEMRA. We are very thankful and appreciative with his level of engagement and all the hard work including event sponsorships for the Quebec Region, in which Patrick has provided for close to three decades.”

On behalf of EFC, Quebec Region and CEMRA, we would all like to congratulate Patrick on this retirement, and may he enjoy this milestone adventure. Congratulations to you Patrick on your well deserved retirement.

JS Bercier will now serve as President of Desdowd, along with partner Andre LeBlanc.

Go HERE to view the photo gallery from the event