Patrick Vaillancourt
President
Patrick Vaillancourt is a community-driven leader born and raised in Hearst, Ontario, who studied business administration with a specialisation in marketing. With deep roots in the community, he is known for his commitment to growth, collaboration, and supporting local initiatives.
Patrick has served as a municipal councillor for the Town of Hearst, where he contributed to decision-making on key issues such as economic development, infrastructure, and community services. His time on council reflected a hands-on approach and a dedication to ensuring a strong and sustainable future for the community.
Professionally, Patrick brings extensive experience in both the industrial and retail sectors. He has been serving as Human Resources and Health and Safety Manager at Lecours Lumber Co. Limited since 2021, where he plays a key role in workforce development, employee relations, and organizational leadership within the forestry industry. Prior to this, he spent 19 years as Sales Manager at the local Ford dealership, building a reputation for leadership, customer service excellence, and business growth.
In addition to his professional and municipal roles, Patrick has remained actively involved in community organizations and initiatives. His participation on various boards (Hearst Connect and Caisse Alliance) and committees highlights his ongoing commitment to strengthening Hearst and supporting its continued development.
Respected for his practical mindset, leadership skills, and strong community ties, Patrick continues to be a dedicated contributor to the economic and social vitality of Hearst.
hearstlumberjacks@gmail.com
Alain Comeau
Vice-President
Alain Comeau has been a driving force in hockey development in Hearst for more than 15 years. A longtime coach and former president of Hearst Minor Hockey, he has played a major role in growing the game locally and helping develop young athletes in the community. His leadership has included organizing hockey schools, mentoring players and coaches, and supporting the continued success of hockey programs in the region.
A former junior hockey player himself, Alain brings extensive experience, strong community ties, and a deep passion for the sport to the Hearst Lumberjacks organization. Hockey has always been a big part of the Comeau family, as his father Roger was also heavily involved in the game, helping pass down that passion through generations. Alain’s children — Jacob, Emilie, and Mathieu — all played high-level hockey, further continuing the family’s strong connection to the sport.
Since helping launch the franchise in 2017, Alain has remained an important part of the executive team, contributing to the growth and reputation of the organization both on and off the ice.
Eric Buteau
Treasurer
Since helping launch the franchise in 2017, Eric brings extensive financial and operational leadership experience to the Hearst Lumberjacks organization. A Chartered Professional Accountant, Eric spent several years in Ottawa working with CBC and private-sector companies before returning to Hearst to take on the role of General Manager at Lecours Lumber, one of Ontario’s leading independent sawmills. His strong business background, strategic mindset makes him a valuable asset to the organization.
Eric is also an avid outdoorsman who enjoys spending his free time fishing and enjoying Northern Ontario’s lakes and wilderness. In his spare time Eric also enjoys carpentry, racing snowmobile and hunting.
Eric Boulanger
Secretary
Eric Boulanger is a well-known member of the Hearst business community and a passionate supporter of hockey in Northern Ontario. After many successful years as co-owner of P & L Sales & Service, Eric recently sold the business and continues to bring his leadership, experience, and community-minded approach to the Lumberjacks organization.
As Secretary of the Hearst Lumberjacks, Eric plays an important role behind the scenes, helping oversee the equipment operations and contributing to the financial side of the organization. Known for being dependable and team-oriented, he has also been involved in minor hockey over the years and remains dedicated to supporting young athletes and the growth of hockey in Hearst.
Outside of hockey, Eric enjoys spending quality time with his family and travelling with them whenever possible. His strong community values, business background, and passion for the game make him a valued member of the Lumberjacks executive team.
