Jean-Michel Lavoie

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the loss of our beloved Jean-Michel Lavoie, affectionately known as JM, who passed away in Victoria on June 5th, 2026 from autoimmune encephalitis at the age of 40.

Originally from St-Honoré, near Chicoutimi, JM was an avid reader since childhood. His lifelong love of learning led him to pursue a Master’s degree in chemical engineering and later study medicine at McGill University. He completed his postgraduate internal medicine training in Vancouver before specializing in cancer care (genitourinary oncology) where he could pursue his love of research and patient care. JM took great pride in doing the right thing, no matter how difficult the path, and in seeing people through the worst day of their lives. He left an indelible imprint on the many lives he touched. He will be remembered as a force of nature, with his sharp wit, his fierce intelligence and his integrity.

He is survived by his mother Chantale Tremblay, his father Guy Lavoie, his sister Maripier Lavoie, his grandmother Louisette Tremblay, multiple uncles, aunts and cousins, and the many beloved friends who make up his ‘chosen family’ in Quebec and in BC. Dr JM was beloved by patients and respected by his colleagues. His loss is keenly felt in all our hearts.

The family would particularly like to acknowledge his close friends, Valeria Stoynova, Olivier Desplantie, James Curtis and Richard Gagnon, and thank them for their help and support for Jean-Michel and his family during this trying event. A very special thank you to the staff of the intensive care unit at Victoria General Hospital for their invaluable care.