Rocco Renaud Greater Sudbury, ON Obituary – The Greater Sudbury community, and Cambrian College in particular, are grieving the sudden and heartbreaking loss of one of their own. Rocco Renaud, a vibrant and beloved student, tragically passed away in an accident on Sunday, May 25, 2025. At just 20 years old, Rocco had already made a profound impact on everyone around him, with his warmth, charisma, and creative spirit shining brightly throughout his time at Cambrian College.
Rocco was enrolled at Cambrian College from 2024 to 2026, pursuing his academic goals while building relationships with classmates, faculty, and staff. Although his time at the college was tragically short, the legacy he leaves behind is undeniable—one of laughter, kindness, and an infectious energy that made him a standout presence both in the classroom and beyond.
Rocco’s sudden death has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew him. His passing is not just the loss of a student, but of a young man who had so much potential to make an impact on the world around him. Teachers, friends, and mentors recall a person who was always ready to bring joy and positivity to those in his life. Whether in the classroom, at social events, or during personal interactions, Rocco had an innate ability to make people feel seen, valued, and connected.
Jessica Demore, a teacher who had the privilege of teaching Rocco in seven courses, shared her thoughts on his character, describing him as the “joy in the room” even during the challenging times of the COVID-19 lockdown. “Even during lockdown, Rocco was the joy in the room—baking cookies on Zoom, rescuing turtles, and making us all laugh,” Demore said. “He was the kind of student every teacher remembers. His energy was contagious, and his spirit brightened every classroom he entered.”
Rocco’s influence extended far beyond his academic success. His creative nature and dedication to his studies earned him the admiration of his peers and faculty alike. Candace Stephen, another educator, reflected on Rocco’s unique qualities, saying, “He was one-of-a-kind. He was the student everyone wanted to know. His humility, talent, and charisma made him a standout, and his passing has left a huge void.”
Rocco’s family was an integral part of who he was, and his deep connection to his loved ones was well known. He was always proud of his family and spoke often of his parents, Mark and Vanessa Renaud, as well as his younger sister, Sophie Renaud. His maternal grandparents, Louise and Paul Beaudry, and paternal grandparents, Claire and Denis Renaud, were also an important part of his life, providing him with a strong sense of love and support. Rocco’s bond with his loyal dog, Rusty, was also well known by those who knew him, with Rusty often seen by his side.
The close-knit nature of Rocco’s family was a reflection of his own values. Teachers and friends remember him as a person who deeply cherished the relationships he had with those around him. “Rocco had a sense of humor that brought people together,” said Demore. “He was genuine, hardworking, and had an infectious spirit that made him someone you wanted to be around.”
Despite his busy academic schedule, Rocco always made time for his family and friends, valuing the connections he had with those closest to him. His unwavering loyalty to his loved ones was a quality that stood out to everyone who knew him.
The news of Rocco’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the Cambrian College campus and the Greater Sudbury community. Students, faculty, and local residents have come together in a collective expression of grief, remembering the joy, laughter, and warmth that Rocco brought into their lives. The community is united in their mourning, but also in their determination to honor Rocco’s memory.
Cambrian College, where Rocco was pursuing his studies, has announced plans for a memorial service to celebrate his life. While the date has yet to be confirmed, the service will provide an opportunity for the community to gather, reflect, and pay tribute to the young man who meant so much to so many. In the wake of this tragedy, Rocco’s family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community, which has been a source of comfort during this incredibly difficult time.
Rocco’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. His magnetic personality, his kindness, and his ability to make others feel welcome and appreciated will not be forgotten. As the Greater Sudbury community continues to mourn his passing, they also celebrate the joy that Rocco brought into their lives, and the lasting impact he made in such a short amount of time.
Rocco Renaud’s passing is a tragic reminder of how fleeting life can be. At just 20 years old, Rocco had already touched the lives of so many, and his future was bright with endless possibilities. While the accident that took his life is a painful loss for all who knew him, the memory of his energy, spirit, and love for life will endure.
The community of Greater Sudbury, Cambrian College, and Rocco’s family will carry on his legacy, ensuring that his light continues to shine in their hearts and minds. Rocco Renaud may no longer be with us physically, but the impact of his life will live on, in the stories shared by those who loved him and the memory of the laughter he brought into the world.