Ontario Provincial Police have identified the man who drowned in Lake Erie on Sunday afternoon as Randy William Lavigne, 35, of Orillia, Ontario. Lavigne lost his life in a selfless act of heroism after rescuing his 13-year-old daughter from a swimming accident.
According to authorities and eyewitnesses, Lavigne and his daughter were swimming when they were caught in a strong current and rough waters that dragged them away from the shoreline. As the two struggled, Lavigne’s daughter became fatigued and called out for help.
“He was so tired, he took one last breath and pushed his daughter with a wave in hopes it would bring her in closer to shore,” said Brittany Chessell, one of the first to respond to the emergency. “He unfortunately went under after his last breath and did not resurface.”
Melissa, a friend of Chessell’s, also rushed to help as the terrifying scene unfolded. Lavigne’s body was recovered nearly 24 hours later following a large-scale search effort by the OPP and marine rescue crews.
Originally from Woodstock and an employee of Toyota, Lavigne is being remembered as a devoted father and a true hero. His final act ensured the survival of his daughter.
“We just like to take this opportunity to say thank you to those good Samaritans,” said Sgt. Ed Sanchuk of the OPP’s West Region. “I’d also like to take this opportunity to send all my sincere condolences to all family members and friends who are affected by this tragedy.”
The community is mourning the loss of a man whose love and sacrifice will not be forgotten. He was a former employee at Norwich Plastics. Randy Lavigne’s funeral arrangements are memorial
