Fred,
Im really sorry to hear about your loss.
I went there last week for our 20th wedding anniversary for a few days. Short trip but really great time.We did exactly what you suggested here.The drive in was horrendous at 3 pm.Once at the hotel we left the car there and took the subway into the old city. We Absolutely loved it .Montreal is an incredible city with a rich history and so much to see.We fit alot in the short time there..museums, Basillica, Botanical Gardens and Insectarium, underground city. Shops in old Montreal were fun to explore. I took a ton of pictures I need to go through and will post them when I do.Everyone was polite and welcoming. We will definitely be going back.It was an easy drive for us..about 6 hours.