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Maxwell Bilodeau

Image by Nick Andréka

MAXWELL ARTHUR KENNETH BILODEAU

February 21, 2020 – September 27, 2024

It is with profound sadness and deep sorrow we announce the tragic passing of our beloved son, brother, grandson and nephew, Maxwell Arthur Kenneth Bilodeau.


After a long 2.5-year battle with an extremely rare and aggressive brain cancer - called choroid plexus carcinoma, he passed peacefully at home early September 27, 2024 with his loving parents and sisters by his side.


Maxwell was born on February 21, 2020, at St. Boniface hospital, just before the world went into quarantine because of Covid. For the majority of his life, he was on lockdown and all he really knew was pure love from his family. 


From the day he was born, Maxwell had an incredible presence, a presence that captured the hearts of everyone who knew him. He was so full of energy, curiosity and love. He was also hilarious, mischievous and sometimes bossy.


He absolutely adored his two older sisters, Maya and Ella. He especially loved playing hide and seek and tag with them. He also loved building cars and towers out of LEGO and blocks, going for long walks in his orange car, going to the barn to watch his sisters and mother ride their horses, watching Paw Patrol and pretending he was Spider-Man.


Maxwell was diagnosed at the tender age of two years old, on Mother’s Day of 2022. He underwent emergency brain surgery two days later to remove a massive tumour and miraculously survived the traumatic surgery. His recovery after surgery was nothing short of remarkable. He quickly earned the nickname, “Mighty Max” and continued to prove the world just how remarkable he was.


Maxwell defied all odds and relearned how to eat, walk, talk and play in just 4 weeks after his traumatic surgery. A month after surgery, he underwent 4 months of intense IV chemotherapy followed by 6 months of maintenance oral chemotherapy in conjunction with cannabis therapy. During his battle, it was highly anticipated and feared the tumour would return but again Mighty Max defied all odds over and over again and was declared cancer free October 2022 after the intense IV chemotherapy. He rang the bell at CancerCare Manitoba in April 2023 when he completed maintenance chemotherapy.


Maxwell and his parents and sisters spent the most amazing 10 months together - camping in his mighty camper gifted to him by The Dream Factory, going to his grandparents’ cottage, and making new friends at Brightling Academy preschool. Living life as any child should. He also had the honour of being one of the ambassadors of the Winnipeg Jets “Hockey Fights Cancer 2023” campaign and enjoyed a few games in the VIP section with his family. 


Maxwell’s routine MRI in February 2024 showed devastating results and this time, there was no effective treatment available to him. He still fought right down to his final days. Max never complained about his pain and suffering because he didn’t want to make everyone around him sad or cry. Even when he was in the hospital during his last weeks, he still made everyone around him laugh with his little corny jokes and fiery personality. 


He will forever be remembered by his loving parents, Paul Bilodeau and Whitney Campbell; his two big sisters, Maya and Ella; his grandparents, Pam and Ken Campbell, Lee Bilodeau, and Art Bilodeau (Wendy); and his aunts, Jacqueline Bilodeau (Cory), Danielle Bilodeau, Jenny Campbell, Jodi Gagnon (Al), and family.


A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at the Cultural Centre Franco-Manitobain in the Salle Jean-Paul Abrey hall located at 340 Provencher Blvd, Winnipeg MB. 


In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Children’s Hospital, CancerCare Manitoba, or Central Speech & Hearing Clinic.


Maxwell’s family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by watching the photo-biography above. Please, also consider sharing your own photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.


ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Just a Nana (Grandma)

October 24, 2024 at 3:43 PM

My sincere condolences on this devastating loss of your beautiful little boy. Our great nephew has gone through brain cancer. May love and care surround you as you grieve, remember, celebrate his life, and seek healing to process the last couple of years. His memory will always be with you. May it be the driving force to look for glimmers of joy, living your lives to the fullest...for him. Peace to you.

 

 

Joanne (Carman), Malcolm Duff and MeghanDuff

October 17, 2024 at 4:35 PM

Our family was at a real loss loss when we received the news of Maxwell’s passing. Even though we hadn’t met him yet, I don’t think there is anything more devastating in our world than the death of a child. And then, to be his family…

Our deepest thoughts and prayers for Maxwell’s passing and the overwhelming sadness and sorrow you must be experiencing.

Bertha Vaags

October 16, 2024 at 7:47 PM

My sincerest condolences on the loss of your beautiful little son. He has been in my prayers for a long time, and my prayers and thoughts are with the family during this difficult time

Glenn Lavineway and Jennifer Carmichael

October 14, 2024 at 10:58 PM

We are heartbroken for your loss and can’t even imagine....Our hearts go out to you. Please accept our deepest condolences

Donna (Robson) & Dan Ptolemy

October 13, 2024 at 3:54 AM

Our sincere condolences to your family on the passing of your precious little boy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Gary Wietgrefe (Rapid City, SD)

October 12, 2024 at 9:31 PM

Beautiful family. Thank you for sharing memories of your adorable son. May he eternally rest in peace.

Nicole Boyd

October 12, 2024 at 7:22 PM

Dear Paul & family, I am beyond brokenhearted to hear of the death of Maxwell. There truly are no words. I hope you know that I'm thinking of you all today & forever in the future. If I can ever help out in someway, please contact me. Much love, Nicole Boyd

Lou Laferriere and Isabelle Eckert

October 12, 2024 at 3:12 PM

Art and Wendy, So sorry to hear of your grandson Maxwell passing. my heart goes out to Paul and his family. Deepest sympathies. Lou Laferriere and Isabelle Eckert

Normand

October 12, 2024 at 2:17 PM

Mighty Max's video is that of a little boy whose bright eyes and warm smile is letting us know to love and hug one another because we do not know when our own journey will come to an end. Dors bien jeune champion.

Jim Osler

October 12, 2024 at 12:49 AM

I do not have adequate words. What a beautiful Angel. My heart is with you and everyone in the family.

Kim and John (neighbours)

October 11, 2024 at 11:19 PM

Dear Whitney, Paul, Maya, Ella and family. We offer our sincerest and heartfelt condolences to all of you. We are thinking of you. Rest in Peace, sweet Maxwell.

Jennifer, Steve, Sophia & Emma Ash (nee Lamirande)

October 11, 2024 at 10:27 PM

We are so sorry for your incredible loss. Prayers to you and your family as you all navigate this difficult time. Mighty Max sounds like he was quite the super hero! Rest In Peace sweet boy.

Betty and Gary Black (Art's Friends)

October 11, 2024 at 9:27 PM

Our sincerest condolences to al of you as you grieve the passing of your son,amd grandson Max, an angel while on this earth. What an exceptional boy with an exceptional heart and strength during his short time with you all. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

Murray, Elizabeth, Kurt, Evan, and Rún

October 11, 2024 at 5:28 PM

Whitney, Paul, Ken, Pam and Family,

 

Our most sincere condolences on the passing of your beloved son/grandson Maxwell. The loss of a child is an unfathomable grief that no family should have to experience. We've followed Max's journey since his diagnosis, and watched in awe as he beat the odds over the years. Your steadfast and unwavering devotion to him was undeniable, both in his treatment options and in fostering an environment of warmth, love, and security. We all see how much you advocated for Max in his life, and wish you all respite in your time of grieving. We've made a donation to the Central Speech and Hearing Clinic in Max's memory.

With love,

The Smith Family

The Dilay Family

October 10, 2024 at 6:26 PM

We are deeply sorry for your loss.

The Mendo Medical Family

October 10, 2024 at 3:28 PM

On behalf of the entire Mendo Medical family, we want to express our deepest condolences to Maxwell’s family. We had the privilege of being a small part of his courageous battle, his strength and resilience touched all of us deeply. Our hearts are heavy with his loss, and we are keeping his loved ones in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time. Maxwell’s spirit will continue to inspire us, and we are truly honored to have been able to support him in his fight.

Lou Laferriere and Isabelle Eckert

October 10, 2024 at 3:00 PM

Art and Wendy, I am so sorry to read of your grandson Maxwell passing. My heart goes out to Paul and his family. Deepest sympathies.

Ray

October 9, 2024 at 12:07 AM

In the unfathomable hurdles and setbacks Max faced, he was truly blessed with an exceptional family network suffused with boundless and unstinting love and care, Ray.

Lucy and Louis Szkwarek (neighbours)

October 8, 2024 at 8:33 PM

God has claimed another of His Angels. The strength and courage that Maxwell showed during his battle with cancer touched many hearts. May you find peace in the cherished memories you shared together, and may those moments carry you through this incredibly difficult time.

Darcy, Brittany and Dorian Arbuthnot

October 8, 2024 at 2:13 PM

My most sincere condolences and thoughts to Paul, Whit, Maya and Ella. Max was quite the character to say the least and touched our hearts in so many ways. The strongest lil man....thank you for all joy you brought to this world. Chicken fingers will always remind us of you.

Nikki (former Max teacher at Brightling Childcare)

October 8, 2024 at 2:11 AM

I extend my deepest condolences to your family at this time. It was a big shock to me hearing about the passing of my cute little Max. It actually brought back the beautiful memories Max and I shared at the daycare. He was a sweet soul who was so full of life and he actually fought so hard to live. Your memories live long in my heart ❤️ Might Max. Continue to rest in paradise sweet soul. Nikki.

Helen Feniuk ( Friend of Lee Bilodeau)

October 7, 2024 at 10:47 PM

Dear Lee and Family, My heart is overcome with immense sadness at the unimaginable loss of your beautiful Maxwell. He was such a charismatic little guy and must have bee so very loving. I pray that he is with God and all the angel babies where he can look down on you and continue loving you from above! I will be thinking of and praying for peace for each of you as you face life without Maxwell who has left you with such very precious memories. Deepest sympathies and love, Helen Feniuk

 

Gail & Lee MacLean

October 7, 2024 at 9:30 PM

Our sincere condolences to Art and family during this difficult time.

Karolina Dressler on behalf of Brightling Academy

October 7, 2024 at 8:00 AM

Max came to Brightling Academy as a bright-eyed, two year old that ready to step out into the post-covid world to make friends, learn and simply play! He loved spending time with his green room friends and he brought joy to so many. Nihal was Max’s main teacher and they simply clicked. Max had boundless energy despite all the struggles he faced in his life and each day he lived up to his nickname ‘Mighty Max’. Max’s parents and sisters were the most loving and strongest humans we knew. We were so blessed that they entrusted us with Max’s care and shared him with us because he truly was special. Max was kind and imaginative and we loved it.

 

To Sweet Max:

Thank you for teaching us so many of life’s lessons. It was such a pleasure having you in all of our lives and we miss you already. May you rest in peace sweet one.

 

To Paul, Whitney and big sisters, Maya and Ella:

Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you traverse the most challenging of times - losing your sweet boy. Please know that you are surrounded by the love and support of the entire Brightling Academy community. Our doors are always open but rest assured that Max’s light will forever shine in our hearts.

 

With Love from the Staff, Families and Max’s little friends at Brightling Academy

Melissa Hildebrands

October 7, 2024 at 7:03 AM

The tribute to your son mighty Maxwell, its beautiful he was such a happy boy. Rip little on until we met again. You gained your wings little one. It's such a touching tribute

Marcel Bilodeau (Art`s cousin) and Carole

October 6, 2024 at 8:20 PM

 

Please know that there are so many people who are keeping you all close in our hearts, prayers and thoughts at this time of immense sadness. Mighty Max, indeed! He sounds like he was an amazing wee lad and, clearly, he has left a lifetime legacy of love for all of you. Let his spark continue to shine in each one of you and may the many cherished memories you hold dear in your hearts help to sustain you in moments of overwhelming sorrow. Sending you all: hope, courage, love. `May the Earth be light upon him`. (African proverb)

Paul (Jack) Bilodeau

October 6, 2024 at 3:40 PM

I never got to really know Mighty Max but the couple of times that I met him I could tell he was surrounded by love. It seemed quite normal for him to feel like this. This is something he had experienced during his whole life. He lived all his childhood in a very short period but he made every second count. He came into this world not so long ago and left it much too early. He left his mark on everyone that knew him and will always be remembered this way. So long Mighty Max. Continue on your next journey and sooner than later we will meet again.

Monique Stratton and Family

October 6, 2024 at 4:41 AM

I am the mom to Mighty Makenna, On behalf of my family and me, we send our deepest sympathy. Life is so unfair to our kids. We should never have to give them back 🎗💔🤍

Arlene and Terry Kubin

October 5, 2024 at 8:53 PM

Arlene and Terry Kubin

we are so sorry for your very great devastating loss. You are an amazing loving family as the pictures clearly reflect . Love and prayers!

Juana schoch

October 5, 2024 at 7:25 PM

My deepest condolences. what an incredible loss of your beautiful young man. Your video truly concludes the indelible love he recieved in his short but full life in many ways, as you provided a lifetime worth of love. This little gem will shine on from the brightest star above radiating that love.

Stu Fawcett

October 5, 2024 at 7:17 PM

I have no adequate words.

 

You have my deepest condolences.

 

Debbie Buckingham

October 5, 2024 at 5:57 PM

I did not know Mighty Max or his family, but that angelic (and mischievious) litle face, his video tribute and his most courageous story touched this stranger to the family in a way that I have never before experienced. There are no words to comfort his family or ease the pain they are exeriencing, but may they find the strength and courage to carry on and yes, ... somewhere over the rainbow ...

 

Gil and Diane Nelson

October 5, 2024 at 4:58 PM

The news of Maxiwell's passing is heartbreaking. Our sincere condolences to the family.

Cathy

October 5, 2024 at 4:14 PM

What a sweet angelic face! God needed Max for His garden and a very special mission. My heart goes out to the family. I can not imagine the pain you are going through with the loss. I didn't know Maxwell or his family but I am heartbroken to read of his passing. May you find comfort in the memories made and peace as time passes. He will forever be in your hearts. I am so very sorry for you loss.

.

Sylvia Kuzyk

October 5, 2024 at 4:01 PM

My heart aches for you. I am so very sorry for your loss. Max will live on in your hearts and memories forever.

Auntie Coleen

October 5, 2024 at 2:08 PM

love will live on in our hearts, forever little Max!

I love these photos of you and your Afi and Nana

Paula

October 5, 2024 at 12:48 PM

My Condolances to the family, Rest In Piece Mighty Max.

Rhoda

October 5, 2024 at 4:57 AM

The only way for me to make this make sense is ... heaven needed another angel for a very important mission. But God couldn't find the perfect angel to carryon the task, so he took one from earth. And that perfect little angel was Max ❤️ and Heaven needed him.

My condolences 💐 it's never easy to lose a child, and it wasn't fair he had experienced so much struggle for most of his life. But max was Very Very Very lucky to have you and Paul as parents. you guys went above and beyond for that little guy, he knows it trust me. Please take the time to greive but also know you had done all you can to give him the life he deserved ❤️

Please don't forget to take care of each other during this difficult time.

Anonymous

October 5, 2024 at 4:37 AM

I just read the short life this angel. What a strong soul. I do not know you or the family but I just had to share my feelings. Reading little maxwells obit broke my heart make you take comfort there are many thoughts and prayers going out to the family.

god bless

Louise Morgan

October 5, 2024 at 1:41 AM

Dear. Bilodeau family. We don't know each other but having grandchildren I feel some of the pain you are going through. Please accept my sincere condolences and I hope the wonderful memories of Max will give you strength you need during this sad time.

Sincerely L Morgan

Tannis, Darcy, Brielle, & Sarah Brown

October 4, 2024 at 11:55 PM

We are deeply sorry for the loss of Max. Please know that our hearts are with you and the family during this unimaginable time. Words cannot express the sorrow we all feel, and want you to know that you are surrounded by love and support. Max was a remarkable child, and his memory will forever be cherished. We really enjoyed spending time with Max last summer, watching him play and hearing his laugh! Xo

Marie

October 4, 2024 at 9:57 PM

The video is very touching. I am very sorry that Max was taken from his loving family. I am sending my condolences with love from Marie

Gary Hooper and Barb Doerksen

October 4, 2024 at 5:45 PM

Our deepest sympathy to you all..Yhoughts and prayers for your family

Maureen Martel

October 4, 2024 at 4:10 PM

My deepest sympathies to you all. My heart is aching for you. Thoughs are with you.

Dan Danial

October 4, 2024 at 3:42 PM

Dear Al, Our deepest condolences to you and the family! Praying for you All!

 

Dan Danial

October 4, 2024 at 3:42 PM

Dear Al, Our deepest condolences to you and the family! Praying for you All!

 

Adam huot

October 4, 2024 at 10:49 AM

I'm so sorry for your loss, my thoughts are with you

Dana Michaels

October 4, 2024 at 1:40 AM

Paul ,Whitney, Maya and Ella

Our hearts go out to you and your entire family We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your beautiful boy I only met Max once but I still remember this beautiful little blond haired boy in his daddy's arms Take care Dana and Luke

Lorraine Ditchfield

October 4, 2024 at 1:36 AM

This was a very beautiful video of such a special sweet mighty Max.. My deepest sympathy to all the family. Hold on to the great memories.

RIP Max ❤️❤️❤️

Bob and Rochelle Murrell

October 4, 2024 at 1:29 AM

Our condolences to you and all your family Paul.

 

Edmee (Bilodeau) Sabourin

October 4, 2024 at 12:31 AM

It just breaks my heart to know that he fought so hard and was still taken My sincere condolences to all the family

Thérèse Dumesnil

October 4, 2024 at 12:08 AM

Deepest Condolences to Paul, Whitney and girls for the departure of your young son and brother. He is now your special angel looking over you, so make sure you keep the conversation going on with him. May your special moments with him always be your comfort, as per the above video tribute and more......

 

Carolyn & Glenn

October 3, 2024 at 11:31 PM

We are so sorry to hear this sad news. Our deepest condolences to his family, and to his grandfather in particular.

 

Dale & Jennifer Dobson

October 3, 2024 at 11:27 PM

We are profoundly sad!

Our thoughts are with your family.

Jensen Family

October 3, 2024 at 10:50 PM

Our family wishes yours strength as you navigate life with your son as your angel. It is wonderful to see a glimpse of the beautiful soul who graced this world far to briefly. To read so many messages about how he touched many lives and bringing them smiles and happiness. His presence will live on as light in all those he shone on. Truly a mighty little boy. Our warmest condolences to your family.

Sherman and Donna Dahl (Guayabitos friends)

October 3, 2024 at 10:30 PM

What a beautiful video! God has defnicely taken one of the best for his angel. So sorry for the family - hugs and prayers for you all.

Merina (neighbour)

October 3, 2024 at 10:03 PM

Beautiful tribute video!

 

I will always remember his big, gorgeous eyes peeking out the big front window and waving when we walked by... his love for cars... the sparkle in his eyes, and pure, genuine joy of his laugh... and the sense of deep awe and joy that I felt watching him begin to walk and talk after that first surgery. An exceptional child from an exceptional family, and forever in our hearts. 🩵

Bonnie Schroeder

October 3, 2024 at 9:39 PM

A wonderful video tribute. ❤️

Taken far too soon.

Nihal Aslan

October 3, 2024 at 9:25 PM

My heart aches for the loss of Max💔. As his teacher, I was blessed to witness his remarkable spirit, strength, and resilience. Every moment spent with him was truly special, and his smile could light up any room. Max’s kindness, courage, and determination left a lasting impact on all of us. His bravery and love for life were truly inspiring, and I will forever cherish the unforgettable moments we shared. I feel honored to have known him. Rest in peace, my mighty Max.💔💔

 

Grandpa & Grandma Wendy

October 3, 2024 at 9:24 PM

We love you so much Maxie & miss you deeply. We always enjoyed playing with you & being in your company. You were truly special to us. You were so thoughtful & caring. Life will never be the same without you.

Our loss is heaven's gain. Our love to Paul, Whitney, Maya, & Ella. We are here for you. Love. Gpa & Gma. Wendy

Judy Bomback-Lindsay & Allison’s Mom from Nakomis

October 3, 2024 at 9:04 PM

It sounds like "Mighty Max" was a very special child, and perhaps took after his Daddy, I remember Paul being quite mischevious, full of curiosity, and bossy on occasion. Loosing a child is an experienice that no parent should ever have to go through. My heart goes out to all of you. With deepest condolences.

Rex De Castro

October 3, 2024 at 8:52 PM

Mighty Maxwell was one of the strongest bravest kids we had the pleasure of knowing. We prayed for him everyday throughout his journey and will continue to do so for his gudeince in the afterlife. Our deepsest condolences to Maxwells family and friends. Maya and Ella were so strong, the best sisters Max could ask for. Although heart broken, we are all very lucky to have Max in our lives for the precious time that we did. We won't forget you buddy. Shine bright in the sky little guy. XOXO