Tribute to Marie-Claude Tournier
Former happy times with Marie-Claude centre with Sarika to left and Hilary to right
We are deeply sad to report that Marie-Claude Tournier, a long term and much loved member of INC, passed away unexpectedly on 15th November whilst on a visit to her native France. As many of you will know, Marie-Claude was a firm fixture at many events with her sparkling blue eyes and sharp wit, we will all miss her dearly. Our thoughts are with her husband, Miguel and her family and friends at this time. Details of the memorial mass to commemorate Marie-Claude´s life will be released shortly. Here are some of the messages of condolences and heartfelt memories that have been pouring into the Club.
INC honours long term members - Marie-Claude (far right) stands out stylishly from the crowd
INC member, Hilary Bellis remembers Marie-Claude fondly:
Marie-Claude (left) and Hilary Bellis enjoy some vintage INC memories
Dear Marie-Claude,
I am going to miss you.
I will miss your quick sense of humour, your honesty, your stoicism, your generosity, and your love of cats.
I will miss your enthusiasm for (almost) all things 'English' - the language ... tea .... scones ..... clotted cream ..... Christmas Pudding ...... and English men!
I will miss your 'Frenchness', your elegance, your style, your impeccable grooming, your expectation of very high standards, your hospitality, your delicious French food and your French champagne. I will miss your fabulousness.
But most of all, I will miss your friendship.
I will try my best to live up to your example.
God bless you.
Hilary xx ❤️
Marie-Claude cuts a dash with husband, Miguel
Eleanor Pojer, INC Past President and Honorary President also paid tribute to our dear friend:
I’m so sad to hear about Marie-Claude’s passing. She was such a treasure to INC, truly a class act who loved the club and gave so much of herself. I always enjoyed our conversations; she had such grace and warmth.
She will be terribly missed.
Brigitte de Cleer also had a personal farewell:
I would love to say good bye to my dear friend, Marie- Claude.
She always said, my baby friend from Belgium, you are still young. And I answered, you are older but so young in spirit, a lovely face and with your personal, ironical sense of humour that I loved.
We laughed and cried together, we had lunch whenever and always in nice places, as I knew she loved that.
For me it was a pleasure to be her friend, miss her already a lot and I can' t understand why fortune always takes those who are the best, it is so sad and unfair .
My heart is mourning but her energy will be always with me.
Thanks, chère amie, je t' aime. Merci pour être mon amie.
Rest in peace,
Ton amie, Brigitte
Ana (above right) enjoys a fun moment with Miguel and Marie-Claude
