Obituary of Raymond Julien Joseph Laflamme
In Loving Memory of Raymond Laflamme: A Life of Curiosity, Courage, and Care
Raymond Laflamme, beloved husband, devoted father, mentor, friend, and pioneering quantum physicist, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, June 19, 2025. He is survived by his beloved wife, Janice Gregson, and his children, Patrick (Jenny Wan) and Jocelyne (Cameron Duckett). They wish to honour him with words that reflect the fullness of his life—a life filled with laughter, learning, and love.
Born in Quebec City, Ray was the third of five siblings, growing up in a household full of energy, mischief, and practical jokes. His summers at the family cottage on Lac Beauport were a time of adventure and laughter, where he and his siblings—always up for a laugh—created memories that would stay with him throughout his life. It was there, among the trees and the lakes, that he first learned the joys of curiosity and camaraderie.
Ray’s journey took him from Quebec to Cambridge, England, where he completed his PhD under the legendary Stephen Hawking. His brilliant mind would go on to shape the field of quantum information science, with groundbreaking work in quantum error correction, and as the founding director of the Institute for Quantum Computing at the University of Waterloo. His contributions to science were immense, but it was his ability to inspire, mentor, and connect with others that truly defined him. To his students and colleagues, Ray was not only a pioneering scientist, but also a mentor whose kindness, generosity, and unwavering support made him a once-in-a-lifetime influence. He was often described as someone who made people feel heard, valued, and capable of greatness—even when they didn’t believe it themselves.
Ray’s remarkable contributions were recognised at the highest levels, culminating in his appointment as a Member of the Order of Canada, a testament to his enduring impact on both the scientific community and his country. This honour, bestowed upon him for his foundational work in quantum physics and his commitment to education and mentorship, was just one of the many ways his contributions were celebrated and remembered.
At home, Ray was just as extraordinary. He met Janice through their shared love of dragon boating in Vancouver, and together they built a life rich in love, respect, and shared adventure. Their relationship was a partnership of deep affection and mutual support. In the final days of his life, Ray and Janice’s tenderness toward each other was a testament to a love that had only grown stronger with time.
As a father, Ray was warm yet firm, busy yet always present. He shared his passions—his love for the outdoors, his sense of humour, and his commitment to doing the right thing—with Patrick and Jocelyne, instilling in them a sense of optimism, integrity, and a love of learning. Ray often said that his greatest achievement was his wife and his children. His proudest legacy would always be the family he built.
Ray’s love for the outdoors was boundless. In recent years, he and Janice went on bike tours through France, and Ray embarked on two canoe trips to the Arctic—one with Patrick, one with Jocelyne. These trips, along with countless weekends spent at the family cottage in Ontario, were some of his happiest moments. Whether it was biking in the summer or cross-country skiing in the winter, Ray loved the simplicity and peace of nature. He had a knack for turning any project into something special, from building a log cabin sauna by hand to restoring his cherished 1979 VW bus. A lover of good food, fine wine, and meaningful projects, Ray’s life was marked by a quiet joy in the small things that brought him and his family closer.
Ray’s sense of humour was legendary. He had a gift for storytelling, often weaving fantastical tales that would leave listeners shaking their heads in disbelief, only to be met with his signature wry smile when they were finally "had." For Ray, every challenge in life was simply “memorable,” a word he used to turn difficulties into opportunities for growth and humour. And, as he often said, there was “nothing a sauna can’t fix.”
To the very end, Ray faced his illness with the same strength, grace, and curiosity that marked his entire life. He remained deeply concerned about others, encouraging his students, supporting his colleagues, and even expressing a dying wish for his children to embark on another canoe trip next year. His commitment to others—his selflessness and care—was evident until the very last moment.
Raymond Laflamme’s legacy lives on in the groundbreaking contributions he made to quantum physics, in the institutions he helped build, in the students he mentored, and most of all, in the lives of those who loved him. He will be remembered not only for his scientific brilliance but also for his ability to make the world a better, kinder, and more joyful place for all who knew him. His life was a testament to the power of curiosity, optimism, and love.
Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, condolences for the family and donations to Lung Cancer Canada, Princess Margaret Foundation, or the WRHN Foundation – Cancer Centre may be arranged through the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo at www.erbgood.com or 519-745-8445. The family is also working towards setting up a Scholarship Fund in Raymond’s memory, with details to be announced on the funeral home’s website when available.
Ray’s family, his students, and his friends will forever cherish the memories of a life well-lived. And for those of us lucky enough to have known him, his life will always be—above all else—memorable.