IN REMEMBRANCE: THE INCIDENT THAT INSPIRED OUR MISSION
CAMILLE ROSE LABERGE
Born: July 10, 1966
Date Of Passing: October 30,2015
Camille Rose Laberge was a vibrant soul whose life shone with courage, adventure, and a deep love for family. Born on July 10, 1966, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, she was the eldest child—a natural leader from the very start. Raised first in Lorette and later in St. Boniface, Camille never lost the touch of her rural roots. She embraced every day with a spirited zest: whether it was enjoying long, reflective walks by the lake, snowmobiling through winter landscapes, or daringly leaping off hay bales, she lived life on her own terms.
Her love for simple pleasures was just as profound. Camille delighted in the rhythms of country music, found relaxation in a refreshing gin after a hard day, and cherished her annual trips to Clear Lake with her sisters in celebration of their mother’s birthday—a ritual that beautifully encapsulated her commitment to family.
Yet, beneath her radiant exterior lay a story of struggle. Despite having taken every precaution to protect herself, Camille became a victim of domestic violence. In the months leading up to her tragic death on October 30, 2015—a day before her favorite holiday, Halloween—she repeatedly reached out for help. Even after securing a restraining order against her estranged husband, Kevin Runke, and taking extra measures like installing cameras, using a secret cellphone, and asking her neighbors to keep watch, the evidence needed to stop the abuse eluded the authorities. Her brave calls to the police, totaling 22 reports over five months, underscore not only her fear but also her determination to seek safety. Camille is survived by her loving parents, Bertrand and Martha Yankoski; her brother, Philippe Laberge; her sisters, Christine and Maddie Laberge; and her cherished nieces, Jamee-Lynn and Brooke.
The life and struggles of Camille Rose ignited a deep, lasting commitment within us to create a sanctuary for survivors. Her story embodies both the courage to fight against relentless abuse and the urgent need for community, understanding, and accessible support. Inspired by Camille’s determination to seek help—even when the system faltered—we founded BTSDV as a bilingual, survivor-led nonprofit organization. Our mission is to empower survivors with the tools, resources, and compassionate community they need to rebuild their lives. Camille’s legacy reminds us that healing is complex and personal, and that every survivor deserves a safe space to grow and reclaim their life free from fear. In her memory, we stand together to break the silence surrounding domestic violence and advocate for a future where no survivor feels alone.
Let us honor her legacy by sharing stories, offering remembrances in any form, and striving to make our communities safer and kinder. Her memorial service was held on November 6, 2015, at Holy Family Church, 778 Archibald Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba.
May her spirit continue to guide and inspire us all.